2 weeks Ago By [email protected] (Will Twigger)
As house prices in London continue to soar, more and more buyers are looking towards commuter towns as a more affordable option. These towns offer the best of both worlds - proximity to the capital without the hefty price tag. However, with their increasing popularity, some commuter towns have seen their property prices skyrocket, making them unaffordable for many.
But there's one hidden gem that remains relatively cheap and is often overlooked. Bishop's Stortford, a historic market town in Hertfordshire, sits on the border with Essex and just west of the M11. Its close proximity to Stansted Airport makes it an ideal location for frequent travellers, but there's much more to Bishop's Stortford than just its convenient location.
This charming commuter town boasts picturesque scenery, with a National Trust forest right on its doorstep and the River Stort flowing through it. It offers all the benefits of suburban living, while still being within easy reach of London. But even though London is easily accessible, there's so much to see and do in Bishop's Stortford that you might find you never want to leave.
The town is home to a range of independent restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines. If you're into cultural outings, South Mill Arts is a must-visit. It's Bishop's Stortford's own theatre, museum, gallery and dance studios.
For art enthusiasts, Henry Moore's Studio and Gallery in Much Hadham is worth a visit. The artist's former home and workspace opens to the public during the summer months for fans to explore his work and sculptures. In addition, the town hosts an annual music festival, Stortford Music Festival, and Bishop's Stortford College runs a Literature Festival for 4-18 year olds at the start of each year.
The property prices are the real cherry on top, though. While not exactly cheap, the savings you can make compared to London are pretty massive. If you're looking for a terraced house, you can save upwards of £380K, with most going for around £403K as opposed to London's £787K.
Detached properties in Bishop's Stortford go for around the £711K mark, and semi-detached for £475K. Bishop's Stortford is just a one hour and 21-minute drive from London via the M11. If you're planning to stay overnight, you can book a hotel here.
Getting there is a breeze with direct trains from London Liverpool Street taking you there in under an hour. Stay up to date about London's hottest events, latest restaurant openings, and best deals with our Going Out Out newsletter. Sign up HERE!.
