Famed for the extensive growth of the saffron crocus in the region during the 16th and 17th centuries, the historic market town of Saffron Walden in Essex continues to prosper with its rich heritage and convenient rural location sustaining it as a desirable location.

The beauty of the picturesque town has not gone unnoticed, with it continually being named as one of the best places to live in the UK. It was most recently named the best place to live in the East of England in 2023 by the Sunday Times.

Saffron Walden was praised for its community with a “proper country feel” from its colourful cottages to thriving independent businesses and excellent schools. 

The town’s parish church of Saint Mary the Virgin is the largest in Essex with its spire standing out in the skyline and the ruined remains of Walden Castle are also popular with tourists visiting the area.

The town centre still hosts a popular market every Tuesday and Saturday with fresh produce, antiques and clothing drawing in crowds. Local celebrity chef Jamie Oliver is also a big supporter and visitor to the notable market.

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The town is also home to the oldest purpose-built museum buildings in the country, completed in 1835, and has collections including ancient ceramics, a mammoth tusk, and an early Tudor bed.

The Grade II-listed Bridge End Garden Showcases Victorian-era designs and a hedge maze while The Common offers a wide green space for residents and visitors to enjoy picnics, sports and leisurely walks. The space is also used to host community events.

Despite its historical roots the market town has continued to grow and prosper in the 21st century with the arrival of young families and new eateries. Its population now stands at more than 16,600 people.

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Jack Etherington, who runs the craft beer shop DEAD Time in the town, told the Sunday Times: “When I was growing up it always seemed like a fuddy-duddy town, but now it’s really cool.”

He added: “It still has that older generation, but there are a lot of young families too.”

The judges noted this in their feedback too, which said: “Always beautiful, this historic market town is now adding a touch of youthful vigour to its highbrow credentials.”

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The rural feel of the town contrasts the excellent transport routes keeping Saffron Walden well-connected.

Nearby Audley End railway station offers regular rail services to London in under an hour and Cambridge in just 17 minutes. It is also close to the M11 and just half an hour’s drive away from Stansted Airport.

This makes it popular with commuters looking to escape the city for a slower pace of life but does not come without cost. House prices in the area are an acreage of £576,000 according to Halifax using Land Registry data.

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