11 Great Reasons To Leave London And Move To Essex

Are you thinking of relocating from the capital and are considering a move to Essex?

You’re not alone! It’s no secret that Essex comes with a reputation.

Flick through any glossy magazine or watch certain reality shows, and you’ll see white teeth, spray tans, and a distinctive Essex accent.

That caricature, however, masks the county’s authentic charm—its rich natural heritage, beautiful beaches, top-rated schools, and an enviable quality of life that’s often far more affordable than London.

Throughout this article, you’ll find 10 of the best reasons to leave London behind and move to Essex.

1. Live in the Country

Despite being on London’s doorstep, Essex offers some of the most stunning landscapes in the country.

From Epping Forest in the southwest to the ancient River Stour in the north, the county’s varied scenery is a breath of fresh air for anyone used to tower blocks and cramped terraces.

With more than 8,400 acres of designated land, 87 nature reserves, and countless parks, Essex is a haven for anyone seeking leafy surroundings.

Well-worn cycle paths cater to those who prefer getting around on two wheels, and if you fancy a stroll with the dog or a gentle hack on horseback, there’s plenty of open space to explore.

2. Visit the Seaside

Before the era of budget flights, the “Sunshine Coast” in Essex was the holiday destination of choice for British families.

Clacton-on-Sea, for instance, was once the place to be for seaside fun, complete with amusement arcades, crazy golf, and that classic bucket-and-spade feel.

These old-fashioned delights still draw crowds today, but the Essex seaside isn’t all about nostalgic charm.

Southend boasts the world’s longest pleasure pier, packed with fun activities for all the family!

3. Beautiful Beaches

Essex’s coastline stretches for about 350 miles and offers some genuinely spectacular spots for beach lovers.

Walton-on-the-Naze and Frinton-on-Sea are known for their unspoilt sands, while Shoebury East Beach and Mersea Island have won recognition for their clean water and family-friendly facilities.

Mersea Island’s colourful beach huts look picture-perfect in a row, but it’s the views over the Blackwater Estuary that capture the imagination.

Sailing and fishing boats drifting along the water make for a peaceful sight that feels a world away from London traffic.

4. Cheaper Housing

Anyone considering buying a home will be glad to hear that house prices in Essex are significantly lower than in the capital, and you usually get far more space for your money.

Large stately homes, quaint thatched cottages, and new-build developments in towns like Chelmsford and Colchester give buyers a wide range of choices.

For many first-time buyers, Essex represents a more manageable route onto the property ladder.

Families looking for an upgrade or more space can often secure gardens and extra bedrooms they couldn’t afford in London.

5. Shopping in Essex

If retail therapy is your thing, Essex has plenty on offer.

Major shopping centres like Lakeside and Eastgate are brimming with familiar high-street names, while Freeport in Braintree caters to those after designer brands at discounted prices.

If you prefer something more personal, the county hosts many farmers’ markets brimming with fresh produce—locally grown fruit and veg, artisan bread, and other tempting treats.

Supporting local suppliers gives you a taste of Essex’s thriving food scene and helps keep local farming traditions alive.

6. Award-Winning Attractions

Thanks to various award-winning attractions, Essex attracts visitors from neighbouring counties and beyond.

Colchester Zoo, for example, ranks among the top in the UK and even Europe.

It provides a home for rare animal species and offers a brilliant family day out.

Southend’s Adventure Island is another top-rated activity to enjoy.

With a range of rides, arcade games, and amusements, it’s easy to see why families flock to the seafront for a fun-filled day in the sunshine.

7. Eating Out in Essex

The Romans, so the story goes, were rather fond of Essex oysters when they first arrived in Britain—and locals have been carrying on that tradition ever since.

Mersea Island and Colchester remain some of the best spots to sample freshly caught oysters.

These are often served in rustic seaside shacks that celebrate a centuries-old way of life.

It’s not all about oysters, though.

Essex has emerged as a true culinary hotspot, boasting Michelin-starred restaurants, trendy gastropubs, and everything in between.

If wine is more your thing, you’ll find the historic New Hall vineyard tucked away in the Purleigh countryside—one of the oldest vineyards in the country, still producing bottles that delight connoisseurs.

8. Explore the Rich Heritage

Roman ruins, Norman keeps, and centuries-old architecture speak to Essex’s long history.

Colchester was once the capital of Roman Britain, with large sections of its ancient walls still visible today!

A trip to Mountfitchet Castle offers a glimpse into Norman life, complete with re-enactments and interactive exhibits dotted throughout the year.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, there’s no shortage of museums, heritage sites, and hidden gems across the county that shed light on Essex’s vibrant past.

9. Great Schools

Ask any family why they might move to Essex, and chances are education will come up.

According to respected guides like The Sunday Times School Guide, schools in Colchester, Chelmsford, and Southend-on-Sea consistently rank among the best in the country.

The county still boasts eight grammar schools, including the acclaimed Colchester Royal Grammar and Southend High School for Girls.

Admission is keenly sought after, with some families relocating from overseas just to give their children a shot at these sought-after institutions.

10. The People

A place is only as good as its community, and Essex has plenty to shout about.

Many families made the move from London’s East End to Essex back in the 1960s and 1970s, bringing with them a lively, down-to-earth spirit that remains to this day.

Newcomers will usually find their neighbours friendly, funny, and quick to lend a hand.

Essex is also known for its entrepreneurial streak, more new businesses crop up here per square mile than almost anywhere else in the country!

This helps to create a vibrant culture of innovation and opportunity.

11. Commuting from Essex to London

One of the most common questions for those considering relocating is whether the daily commute will be manageable.

In truth, many Essex towns and villages enjoy excellent transport links.

Trains from Chelmsford to London Liverpool Street take as little as 35 minutes, and from Colchester you can be in the capital in under an hour.

You can have all the perks of country or coastal living without sacrificing a quick journey to the capital.

Looking to Move to Essex?

If you’re considering making the leap and need a reliable removals company, GoodMove is at your service.

With over 35 years’ experience, we operate from our site near Horkesley in Colchester and can help you move anywhere in Essex—or, for that matter, throughout the UK and even internationally.

We tailor our services to each customer, offering bespoke removal packages and packing and storage solutions if you need extra space.

To find out how GoodMove can assist with your house move, call us on 01206 807611 or fill out our quick quote form.

One of our friendly team members will be in touch shortly.

Wherever you’re coming from, and whatever your reasons for swapping city lights for coastal views, Essex has a great deal to offer.