We’re fortunate in London, you might argue.
Yes, we have the priciest property in the country, and even those who can afford to buy or rent in a decent area often find themselves gobsmacked at their bank statements.
What we’re getting at is, the city is so vast that it’s inevitably surrounded by satellite villages, towns and cities. Sure, these can be pricey too, but there are plenty of budget-friendly options.
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However, one town towards the east has been battling with its reputation for years – Basildon.
Basildon was born as part of the wave of new towns in the south east of the country post-Second World War and, well, it hasn’t exactly fulfilled its promise. Lewis Silkin, the Minister for Town-and-Country Planning in 1948, imagined the new population centre as ‘a city which people from all over the world will want to visit’.
Needless to say, Basildon isn’t exactly a tourist hotspot these days.
In fact, a study by The Economist that looked at factors such as home ownership rate, average qualifications, average age, average property price and average earnings, labelled Basildon as the ‘most typical place in Britain’.
It might be a tough pill to swallow for a Basildonian to hear that their town is the most average place in the country, but we believe there’s more to it than what first meets the eye.
Despite the negative press, Basildon actually boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene.
The Basildon Arts and Community Centre is a hub for cultural events, hosting concerts, exhibitions and more. The town also boasts several parks and open spaces, including the Basildon Park, a stunning 17th-century mansion set amidst formal gardens and a lake.
When it comes to transport links, Basildon is well-connected. A mere 21-minute train ride from London, the town is also accessible via major roads such as the M25 and A127.
Basildon offers a variety of housing options, from modern flats and townhouses to spacious detached homes, making it an ideal place to settle down. The town has a good selection of schools, both primary and secondary, as well as several colleges and universities.
Despite its modern vibe, Basildon retains its historical charm with landmarks like the ruins of St. Nicholas Church, dating back to the 12th century, located in the town centre.
For those who enjoy walking or cycling, the Basildon Heritage Trail provides a route that showcases many of the town’s key historic sites and landmarks.
As for commuting, it’s straightforward. A half-hour train journey from Fenchurch Street will get you to Laindon station.
However, if you’re planning to drive from Central London, be prepared for a slightly longer journey – it should take just under two hours.
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