Living in Ilford

Ilford is a vibrant and diverse town in East London, offering excellent connectivity, a bustling town centre, and a strong sense of community. Located within the London Borough of Redbridge, Ilford appeals to a wide range of residents from young professionals and growing families to retirees thanks to its excellent schools, green spaces, and mix of housing options.

With direct transport links to Central London and beyond, Ilford is a popular choice for commuters who want city convenience without central London prices. Whether you're looking for a stylish apartment, a spacious Victorian terrace, or a modern new-build home, Ilford has something to suit every lifestyle. At Douglas Allen, our expert estate agents can help you navigate the local property market and find your ideal home in Ilford.

Where is Ilford?

Ilford is situated in East London, within the historic county of Essex and now part of Greater London. Just over nine miles from Central London, Ilford lies along the Great Eastern Main Line and is well-connected by road and rail. It’s served by the Elizabeth Line, offering fast links to Liverpool Street, the West End, and Heathrow Airport. Major roads like the A406 (North Circular), A12, and M11 provide easy access to other parts of London and the southeast.

Is Ilford a Nice Place to Live?

Living in Ilford offers a lively urban lifestyle with a community-oriented feel. The area is known for its cultural diversity, thriving local businesses, and an ever-growing choice of places to eat, shop, and socialise. Ongoing regeneration - particularly around Ilford station has boosted the town’s appeal, attracting new developments and modern infrastructure.

Ilford is also home to a number of parks and green spaces, including the award-winning Valentines Park, providing residents with a tranquil escape from busy city life. Its combination of urban energy and green retreats makes Ilford a well-balanced place to call home.

Primary and Secondary Schools in Ilford

Ilford boasts a strong selection of primary and secondary schools, many of which are rated ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted. Highly regarded primary schools include Highlands Primary School and Christchurch Primary School.

For secondary education, Ilford County High School and Valentines High School are standout options. Redbridge is also known for its selective grammar schools, including Woodford County High School for Girls. With numerous nurseries, sixth forms, and access to top London universities, Ilford is a great place for families prioritising education.

Shopping in Ilford

Ilford offers a comprehensive shopping experience, anchored by The Exchange Ilford shopping centre, which houses a variety of high street brands and independent retailers. The town centre also features supermarkets such as Sainsbury’s, Tesco, and Lidl.

Ilford High Road is lined with a variety of shops, cafés, and services, while the nearby Ilford Lane is known for its South Asian fashion boutiques, jewellers, and international supermarkets, making it a popular destination for shopping.

Travel Links in Ilford

One of Ilford’s major attractions is its excellent transport connections. The Elizabeth Line (Crossrail) has significantly improved travel times into Central London, with journeys to Liverpool Street taking around 15 minutes. There are also easy connections to Canary Wharf, Paddington, and Heathrow Airport.

Ilford is well-served by buses and major road links, including the A12 and A406. Nearby stations such as Seven Kings and Gants Hill (Central line) provide alternative commuting options. Whether you're travelling for work or leisure, Ilford makes it easy to get where you need to go.

Is Ilford Safe?

Ilford is generally a safe and welcoming place to live, with community policing and CCTV coverage throughout the town centre. Like many urban areas, it has its busier spots, but most residential streets are quiet and family-friendly.

Neighbourhoods such as North Ilford, Valentines, and Clayhall are known for their peaceful, suburban atmosphere and proximity to good schools and parks. Local initiatives and neighbourhood watch groups help promote a sense of safety and community cohesion.

Restaurants in Ilford

Ilford’s culinary scene reflects its multicultural community, offering an exciting array of dining options. From traditional British pubs and popular chain restaurants to authentic Indian, Turkish, and Caribbean eateries.

Ilford Lane, in particular, is renowned for its variety of South Asian restaurants, offering everything from street food to fine dining. Whether you are after a quick bite or a celebratory meal, Ilford’s restaurants cater to all tastes and budgets.

Things to Do in Ilford

There is plenty to see and do in Ilford, whether you are interested in the arts, sport, or outdoor activities. Valentines Park is a local gem, featuring historic Valentines Mansion, ornamental gardens, sports facilities, and a boating lake. The Kenneth More Theatre hosts regular performances, from plays and musicals to comedy and children’s shows.

The Redbridge Museum and Central Library provide fascinating insights into local history, while leisure centres like Fullwell Cross and Mayfield offer gyms, pools, and fitness classes. Regular community events, food festivals, and markets add to Ilford’s vibrant cultural calendar, ensuring there is always something happening.