Wondering about the best areas to move to in Ilford? In this guide, we explore top neighbourhoods like Gants Hill, Valentines Park Area, and Seven Kings. Families, young professionals, and anyone looking for diverse living options will find valuable insights here. From excellent transport links to lush green spaces, discover what meets your needs in the vibrant community of Ilford.
Key Takeaways
- Ilford offers diverse residential areas such as Gants Hill, Valentines Park Area, and Seven Kings, each catering to different lifestyles and preferences with excellent transport links, green spaces, and community atmospheres.
- The property market in Ilford is attractive for both buyers and renters, with property prices having risen significantly over the past decade but remaining stable, and a range of rental options available to suit various budgets.
- Ilford boasts excellent transport links, educational institutions, amenities, and community safety initiatives, making it an ideal place for families, young professionals, and individuals seeking a balanced urban lifestyle.
Top Residential Areas in Ilford
Ilford boasts an array of residential areas, each with distinct characteristics and appeal, making it an attractive place for potential homeowners and renters. Gants Hill, Valentines Park Area, and Seven Kings are some of the best places to live in Ilford, each offering unique benefits that cater to different lifestyles and preferences.
Whether you’re looking for a vibrant area with excellent transport links or a peaceful neighbourhood with plenty of green spaces, Ilford has something to offer.
Gants Hill
Gants Hill is renowned for its highly convenient transport links, including the Central Line, which makes commuting to Central London a breeze. This area is also served by regular bus routes, making it easy for residents to get around. Gants Hill’s diverse community is reflected in its various cultural amenities and local shops, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.
The features of the town include:
- The Garden City estate
- Numerous parks
- Ample green spaces for residents to enjoy
- A mix of terraced houses and modern apartments in the town centre, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Valentines Park Area
Living near Valentines Park offers residents access to:
- One of the best parks in Britain
- Expansive green space perfect for leisure activities such as jogging, picnicking, or simply enjoying nature
- A family-friendly area with a strong community atmosphere
- Local attractions like the historic Valentines Mansion
The vibrant area is considered a very safe place to live, with excellent parking spaces and amenities that make it a great place for families and individuals alike.
Seven Kings
Seven Kings is known for its robust sense of community and vibrant high street, making it a dynamic and lively place to live. The area hosts several highly-rated schools, such as Kings High School, which makes it particularly appealing for families with children.
The proximity to King’s Cross and City enhances its desirability, providing residents with easy access to key parts of London. The neighbourhood’s strong sense of community is evident in its local events and gatherings, fostering a welcoming environment for new residents.
Property Market Overview
Ilford’s property market reflects a blend of affordability and desirable living conditions, attracting both families and young professionals. Located nine miles east of Central London, Ilford offers the convenience of city living without the exorbitant prices.
Over the past decade, average house prices in East London have increased significantly, rising from around £320,000 to over £500,000 between 2013 and 2023. Despite a slight dip in 2023, Ilford property prices have remained stable, reflecting the area’s enduring appeal.
Sales Market
The sales market in Ilford features a variety of properties, with terraced houses and semi-detached houses being particularly popular. Terraced houses have become a favourite among first-time buyers due to their affordability and charm. Semi-detached houses, on the other hand, have seen a rise in value driven by increased demand.
Recent trends indicate a gradual increase in property prices in Ilford, with experts predicting a potential fall in prices by 2% to 4% in 2024.
Rental Market
The rental market in Ilford offers a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. Here are some average rent prices:
- One-bedroom flat: approximately £1,100 per month
- Two-bedroom flat: around £1,500 per month
- Houses with larger accommodations: ranging from £1,800 to £4,000 per month
These options cater to individuals seeking more spacious living arrangements.
This variety makes Ilford an attractive option for both young professionals and families seeking rental properties.
Transport Links in Ilford
Ilford is exceptionally well-connected by rail, bus, and road networks, making it an ideal location for commuters. The upcoming Crossrail’s Elizabeth Line is set to significantly reduce travel times to Central London, enhancing Ilford’s appeal. Regular services from Ilford railway station and Ilford bus station provide seamless connectivity to Central London and beyond.
Major roads like the A406 North Circular, A12, and A13 further enhance Ilford’s accessibility.
London Underground and Jubilee Line
Ilford station provides access to the Elizabeth Line, part of the new Crossrail network, offering direct connections to important London locations such as Canary Wharf and Paddington.
Additionally, residents in the London borough can access the London Underground via Gants Hill station, which is on the Central Line, providing good transport links and excellent transport links to various parts of the city, including London City Airport.
Road and Bus Networks
Ilford is well-integrated into London’s extensive bus network, offering numerous routes that connect it to surrounding areas. The Superloop express bus network, with routes like SL2 connecting Ilford to Walthamstow Central and North Woolwich, enhances the area’s accessibility.
NOTE
Major roads such as the A406, A12, and A13 provide convenient access for drivers. These well-maintained routes ensure that Ilford remains a well-connected suburb, making commuting and travel efficient for residents.
Amenities and Facilities
Ilford offers a wide range of amenities, including shopping centres, parks, and excellent transport links. The area is home to several popular shops and restaurants, notably in the Exchange Ilford, providing residents with a variety of options for shopping and dining.
Ilford Rail Station offers facilities such as boarding ramps, help points, ticket halls, toilets, and a waiting room, ensuring a comfortable commuting experience.
Shopping and Dining
The Exchange Ilford is a popular shopping centre that offers a variety of high-street shops and food outlets. Ilford’s town centre features a mix of well-known retail chains and independent stores, providing a diverse shopping experience.
The area also boasts a diverse dining scene, with numerous cafes and eateries that reflect the community’s multicultural fabric. Ilford Lane is particularly known for its vibrant street lined with various shops and restaurants, making it a bustling shopping area.
Parks and Green Spaces
Ilford is home to several parks and green spaces, including:
- Valentines Park: an award-winning park with extensive green spaces, a boating lake, and a historic mansion
- Goodmayes Park: a park that offers outdoor activities and relaxation
- South Park: another park that provides options for outdoor activities and relaxation
Christchurch Green and Fairlop Waters Country Park further enhance Ilford’s range of outdoor recreational options, offering facilities for sailing, golfing, and more.
Education in Ilford
Ilford offers a range of educational institutions, including:
- Primary schools
- Secondary schools
- Colleges
- Universities
These educational institutions make Ilford an attractive location for families looking for good schools.
Primary and Secondary Schools
Ilford features some of the top-rated primary and secondary schools, making it popular among families. Some notable schools in the area include:
- Cleveland Road Primary School: Received an Outstanding rating from Ofsted
- Fullwood Primary School: Also received an Outstanding rating from Ofsted
- Cranbrook Primary School: Recognized for making a significant impact in the community
- Uphall Primary School: Also recognized for making a significant impact in the community
These schools have a strong reputation for providing quality education.
For secondary education, Gants Hill is known for Valentines High School, and Seven Kings School is highly ranked locally. Loxford School and Ark Isaac Newton Academy also stand out for their comprehensive educational experiences.
Higher Education
Ilford offers several higher education opportunities, including notable institutions such as Redbridge College and the University of East London. New City College has a campus in Ilford, which is part of the wider Redbridge campus, providing accessible higher education opportunities for residents. These institutions cater to a variety of academic and vocational interests, making Ilford a great place for young professionals and lifelong learners.
Safety and Community
Ilford is widely regarded as a safe area, with crime rates that are consistent with the national average. It is considered to be a secure place to live. The community takes a proactive approach to safety with neighbourhood watch schemes and community policing initiatives. Regular police patrols and community safety initiatives help maintain a secure environment for residents.
Ilford’s diverse community, combined with good schools and numerous parks, creates a welcoming atmosphere for families and individuals.
Crime Rates
Crime rates in Ilford vary across neighbourhoods, with some areas being safer than others. Here are some key statistics:
- The annual crime rate is 38.8 per 1000 people.
- Violent crimes account for 28.9% of all reported crimes.
- There has been a 5.1% increase in violent crimes from May 2023 to April 2024.
Despite the increase in violent crimes, Ilford’s crime rate remains lower compared to many other parts of London.
Residents are advised to keep valuables out of sight and ensure homes are secure, particularly when away.
Community Centres and Events
Ilford fosters a strong sense of community through various local facilities and initiatives, including:
- Local events
- Community centres
- Libraries
- The Ilford Central Library, which hosts regular community events and workshops aimed at promoting local engagement
- The Work Redbridge Hub, which offers employment support, training, and volunteering opportunities for residents, enhancing community spirit.
Additionally, Studio 3 Arts engages residents in performing arts activities, fostering community spirit through creative projects. These initiatives contribute significantly to making Ilford a vibrant and cohesive community.
Cultural and Recreational Activities
Ilford boasts a diverse range of cultural and recreational activities that reflect its rich cultural heritage and vibrant community. Some of the activities you can enjoy in Ilford include:
- Exploring historic attractions like Valentines Mansion and Gardens
- Attending local events and performances
- Visiting art galleries and museums
- Trying out different cuisines at local restaurants
- Participating in sports and outdoor activities
- Shopping at local markets and stores
These activities cater to different interests, ensuring that residents and visitors can find something that resonates with them.
Kenneth More Theatre and Redbridge Museum
The Kenneth More Theatre is a cornerstone of Ilford’s cultural scene, hosting a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and community events. The theatre features a steeply raked auditorium seating 350 people, providing an intimate yet grand setting for various shows.
The theatre features a steeply raked auditorium seating 350 people, providing an intimate yet grand setting …
The Redbridge Museum offers interactive exhibits that explore the history and diverse cultures of the local area, engaging visitors of all ages. Together, these institutions provide enriching cultural experiences for the community.
Sports and Leisure Facilities
Ilford is well-equipped with sports and leisure facilities that promote a healthy and active lifestyle for its residents. Some of the facilities include:
- Loxford Park, which features sports facilities such as tennis courts and a children’s playground
- The Redbridge Sports Centre, which offers facilities for various sports such as badminton, tennis, and squash
- The Redbridge Sports & Leisure Centre, which provides facilities for swimming, tennis, and fitness classes.
Fairlop Waters, a large country park, offers activities like sailing, windsurfing, and fishing, managed by the Vision Redbridge Culture and Leisure Trust. These amenities ensure that residents have ample opportunities for recreation and fitness.
Summary
Ilford is a vibrant and diverse community that offers a variety of residential areas, excellent transport links, abundant amenities, and a strong sense of community. Whether you are drawn to the convenience of Gants Hill, the family-friendly atmosphere of Valentines Park Area, or the community spirit of Seven Kings, Ilford has a place for you. The property market offers options for both buyers and renters, while the education institutions cater to all levels of learning. The area’s safety initiatives and cultural activities further enhance its appeal. Ilford truly stands out as a great place to live, work, and enjoy life. Take the plunge and discover all that Ilford has to offer – your new home awaits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best areas to live in Ilford?
The best areas to live in Ilford are Gants Hill, Valentines Park Area, and Seven Kings, as they offer excellent transport links, green spaces, and vibrant communities.
How is the property market in Ilford?
The property market in Ilford offers a blend of affordable and desirable living conditions, with a stable market and a slight increase in house prices over the past year. Consider exploring the variety of properties available for sale or rent in the area.
What transport links are available in Ilford?
Ilford is well-connected by rail, bus, and road networks, and the upcoming Elizabeth Line will improve travel times to Central London. In addition, residents have access to the London Underground via Gants Hill station.
Are there good schools in Ilford?
Certainly, Ilford boasts several well-regarded primary and secondary schools, such as Cleveland Road Primary School, Fullwood Primary School, and Seven Kings School, as well as higher education options like Redbridge College and the University of East London.
What amenities and facilities does Ilford offer?
Ilford offers a wide range of amenities, including shopping centres, parks, dining options, and sports facilities, making it a convenient and enjoyable place to live or visit.
