Offering a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, if you’re considering buying a property in Basildon, here’s an area guide to help you get acquainted with the town:
1. Location and Connectivity: Basildon is situated around 30 miles east of London, making it a convenient choice for those who commute to the capital. The town is well-connected by road and rail, with regular train services to London’s Fenchurch Street via the c2c line in approximately 37 minutes, and excellent access to major road networks like the A127 and A13.
2. Housing: Basildon offers a diverse range of housing options, including modern apartment complexes in the town centre, suburban family homes, and charming period properties. The town has seen significant development in recent years with the likes of Westley Green by Redrow, moments from the hospital (prices from £485,000) and Beechwood by NU Living which consists of 251 three and four-bedroom houses, all with two parking spaces and private gardens (prices from £420,000).
The housing market in Basildon is relatively affordable compared to some of the surrounding Essex towns and London boroughs, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers and families with its great connections and amenities on the doorstep.
3. Shopping and Entertainment: Basildon boasts several shopping centres, including the popular Eastgate Shopping Centre which houses a wide range of high street stores and eateries. Pipps Hill, Mayflower and Festival Leisure Park are other popular destinations, with the latter offering a variety of entertainment options such as a cinema, bowling alley, children’s soft play centre and a wide range of restaurants and bars.
4. Sports and Leisure: There are many places to keep active in Basildon. Basildon Sporting Village is a state-of-the-art complex providing a wide range of facilities, including an Olympic-size swimming pool, 112-station gym, 400m athletics track, eight sports halls, outdoor pitches and a climbing wall. It is also home to South Essex Gymnastics Club and offers various fitness classes and activities for all ages and abilities. Basildon has a David Lloyd Club, Club Kingswood and PureGym along with many more in the area, catering to all budgets.
5. Outdoor Spaces: Nature lovers will appreciate Basildon’s abundance of green spaces. One of the standout locations is Gloucester Park, which features a lake, sports facilities, and beautiful gardens. Wat Tyler Country Park is another great spot, offering scenic walks, wildlife encounters, and educational activities for all ages. Additionally, nearby Hadleigh Country Park and the South Essex Wildlife Gardens provide further opportunities for outdoor adventures.
6. Education: Basildon is home to several fantastic primary schools, including Lee Chapel, Greensted and The Phoenix which are all rated Outstanding by Ofsted (as of January 2024). There are well regarded secondary schools in the area including De La Salle, Basildon Academy and Woodlands School all rated Good by Ofsted (as of January 2024). The town has several nurseries and colleges, ensuring a range of educational options for families.
7. Cultural and Community Events: Basildon hosts a variety of cultural and community events throughout the year. The Towngate Theatre offers a diverse program of shows, including plays, musicals and comedy performances. The Basildon Library and local community centres also organise workshops, exhibitions and activities for residents of all ages.
8. Healthcare Facilities: Basildon has a well-established healthcare infrastructure, with Basildon University Hospital (with A&E, maternity and many other departments) serving as the main medical facility in the area. The town is also home to several GP practices and dental clinics, ensuring residents have access to essential healthcare services.
Should you have any questions about Basildon, please feel free to reach out to me on 07377 342 565 or email at scott.west@exp.uk.com.