Brentwood is known for its beautiful countryside, vibrant community, excellent transport links (…and possibly TOWIE!). If you’re thinking of buying a property in Brentwood, here’s a helpful area guide to give you an overview of what the town has to offer:
1. Location and Accessibility: Brentwood is situated in the London commuter belt, making it an ideal choice for those who work in the city but prefer a quieter lifestyle. It is well-connected by rail and road, with train services via Greater Anglia to London Liverpool Street from nearby Shenfield station taking just 25 minutes. The recently opened Elizabeth Line also serves Brentwood (Zone 9) with direct links into Tottenham Court Road, Bond Street, Heathrow Airport and Reading. The town is also conveniently located near major road networks, including the M25 and A12.
2. Housing: Brentwood offers a diverse range of properties, from quaint cottages to modern apartments and spacious family homes. The town boasts a mix of period properties and new developments, catering to different budgets and preferences. The housing market in Brentwood -and surrounding villages and towns like Shenfield, Hutton and Ingatestone- is generally competitive, so it’s advisable to be prepared and act quickly when you find a property you like.
3. Schools and Education: Brentwood has a fantastic selection of primary and secondary schools, both state and independent, providing excellent education options for families. Larchwood, St Peter’s and St Helen’s all scored ‘Outstanding’ on the latest Ofsted reports (*as of January 2024).
Other notable schools in the area include Shenfield High, a coeducational 11-18 secondary school located in nearby Shenfield and Brentwood School a selective, independent day and boarding school, comprising a preparatory school, senior school and sixth form, as well as boarding provision for both boys and girls. The town also benefits from several nurseries and preschools, ensuring a well-rounded education for children of all ages.
4. Amenities, food and drink: Brentwood offers a wide range of amenities to cater to residents’ needs. The town centre is bustling with shops, cafes, restaurants, and pubs, providing ample opportunities for shopping and dining. Personal favourites include FIGO Italian restaurant, Zebrano and The Brentwood Kitchen, the latter offering a ‘Bottomless Club’ with their menu.
There is also the Baytree Shopping Centre nestled just off the high street where there are plans to redevelop, add a four-screen cinema and build seven new homes on the adjacent South Street.
There are many country pubs on the outskirts of the town, several of which offer fantastic roasts, such as The Bull, Nags Head or The Black Horse in Pilgrims Hatch. You really are spoilt for choice! The town also has a thriving nightlife, with a selection of bars, pubs, and clubs for those looking to unwind and socialise. Sugar Hut is now a globally acclaimed nightclub and bar which has become synonymous with the town.
Brentwood has a vibrant cultural and social scene, with various events and activities taking place throughout the year. The Brentwood Theatre hosts a range of performances, including plays, musicals, and comedy shows. The annual Brentwood Festival is a popular event that attracts both local and national artists.
5. Leisure facilities: There is a range of leisure facilities for residents and visitors to enjoy at Brentwood. The Heron Country Club is set in nearly 300 acres of undulating countryside and offers a unique 27-hole layout Golf course, and a Padel Club with covered and floodlit courts.
Brentwood Leisure Centre offers superb facilities including a swimming pool, fitness gym, sports hall, squash courts, 3G football pitch and even a beach volleyball area. There are, of course, many other popular leisure centres in the area including Clearview Virgin Active with two pools, indoor and outdoor tennis courts and many classes to choose from.
Brentwood Park Ski Centre offers skiing and snowboarding lessons, as well as recreational slopes for all ski levels.
6. Green Spaces and Parks: Brentwood is surrounded by stunning green spaces and parks, providing residents with ample opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Thorndon Country Park is a notable attraction, offering beautiful woodland walks, cycling trails and a Gruffalo trail for the kids.
Other parks in the area include Warley Place Nature Reserve, King George’s Playing Fields, and Weald Country Park all offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Should you have any questions about Brentwood, please feel free to reach out to me on 07377 342 565 or email at scott.west@exp.uk.com.