Basildon Area Guide

Living in Basildon

Basildon is one of the largest towns in Essex, offering a welcoming and well-connected place to live with excellent transport links to Central London, Chelmsford, and Southend-on-Sea. With a strong sense of community, a range of amenities, and high-quality schools and colleges, the town appeals to a diverse range of residents, from young professionals to retirees.

Basildon’s convenient location makes commuting to London easy whilst also providing quick access to the coast and countryside. Whether you're looking for a spacious family home, cosy cottage, or modern flat, Basildon offers a variety of property options to suit different lifestyles. At Douglas Allen, we can help you find the perfect property in Basildon, whether you're a first-time buyer, an experienced investor, or looking to rent. Our estate agents can help make your dream of living in Basildon a reality, offering a smooth buying or renting experience.

Where is Basildon?

Located in the southeast of England in Essex, Basildon sits approximately 30 miles east of Central London. The town is well-connected by road via the A13 and A127, as well as by rail, with regular train services to London Fenchurch Street. The town is also close to Southend-on-Sea, offering easy access to the coast for those looking to enjoy the seaside.

Is Basildon a Nice Place to Live?

Living in Basildon is ideal for those who want great access to urban amenities whilst enjoying a more relaxed, suburban lifestyle. The town offers a wide range of shopping, dining, and leisure options, whilst recent regeneration projects have brought new life to the area, enhancing its appeal for residents of all ages.

Basildon is surrounded by parks, nature reserves, and scenic countryside, providing an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. With excellent transport links to both London and the coast, residents can enjoy the best of both worlds - the convenience of city living with the tranquillity of nature and the seaside.

Primary and Secondary Schools in Basildon

Basildon offers three Ofsted-rated ‘Outstanding’ primary schools in its local area, ideal for families looking to raise young children and settle down in the perfect family home. For families with teenagers, Basildon sits in the catchment for one of Essex's biggest secondary schools, Billericay School and Sixth Form. The University of Essex is under an hour away for those looking to further their education. Easy rail links into the capital make travelling to some of London's top universities an attractive option.

Shopping in Basildon

Basildon boasts excellent shopping facilities, with the Town Square and Eastgate Shopping Centre offering over 100 national chains and independent retailers. From fashion and homeware to electronics and beauty, shoppers can find a wide variety of stores to suit their needs. The town is also well-served by major supermarket chains, with Asda, Tesco Extra, and M&S Food all centrally located for convenience.

Additionally, Pitsea Market and Basildon Market provide a great selection of fresh produce and unique local products. You can expect to find everything you need when shopping in Basildon, from everyday essentials to stylish clothing and one-of-a-kind gifts.

Travel Links in Basildon

Basildon benefits from excellent transport links, making it easy for residents to reach London, Chelmsford, and Southend-on-Sea. Whether you're commuting for work or leisure, the town’s location provides convenient access to both city life and the coast.

Basildon sits on the London, Tilbury, and Southend railway line, with regular services to London Fenchurch Street allowing you to reach the capital in under an hour. Nearby stations, including Pitsea and Laindon, offer additional rail options to make getting around even simpler. Basildon enjoys quick access to the M25, with both the A13 and A127 providing direct routes to London, Essex, and beyond.

Is Basildon Safe?

Basildon is a safe and welcoming town, with neighbourhood policing, CCTV coverage, and community-led initiatives helping to reduce crime. Whilst it’s important to stay aware, as in any urban area, many neighbourhoods are peaceful and family-friendly. When living in Basildon, you can expect neighbours who are supportive and friendly, creating a strong sense of community.

Some of the safest areas in Basildon for families include Langdon Hills, Lee Chapel North, and Noak Bridge. These neighbourhoods are known for their quieter, residential feel, and they offer a variety of family-friendly amenities, such as parks, schools, and local shops. The town centre itself is well-patrolled, providing a secure environment for residents of all ages.

Restaurants in Basildon

Basildon offers a diverse range of dining options, catering to all tastes and budgets. Whether you're in the mood for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, the town has something for everyone. From popular gastropubs offering traditional British food to international restaurants offering Italian, Indian, and Mediterranean cuisine, there’s a wide variety to explore.

The Eastgate Shopping Centre offers several good dining spots, perfect for grabbing a bite whilst shopping. Whilst there are plenty of great restaurants in Basildon, London’s diverse culinary scene is within easy reach, offering endless dining opportunities just a short journey away.

Things to Do in Basildon

Residents are unlikely to find themselves short of things to do in Basildon, with a variety of activities to suit all interests. Whether you’re looking to get active, soak up local culture, or keep the kids entertained, there’s always something happening in the town. Lake Meadows and Northlands Park provide perfect spots for walks and picnicking, whilst the Basildon Sporting Village offers fantastic sports facilities, including a swimming pool, gym, and courts for a range of activities.

Families can enjoy days out at Barleylands Farm Park or visit the Discovery Centre for interactive learning experiences. Basildon hosts a range of events throughout the year, including arts festivals, theatre performances at the Towngate Theatre, and exhibitions at the Basildon Museum. With a variety of entertainment, green spaces, and cultural events, Basildon has something for everyone to enjoy.

Micro Area's of Basildon

Living in Langdon Hills | Living in Bowers Gifford | Living in Noak Bridge