Living in Loughton, Essex - Tell me about it

[ladybranstonpickle]

We are thinking of moving to Loughton and I would welcome any thoughts from anyone who is currently living there or who has lived there.

I am familiar with it a little as live along the Central line already but closer in. We go for lunch occaisionally and sometimes stop at the Sainsbury's near the train station.

What are the schools like? Community feel?
Any insight gratefully received.

Some lovely houses, nice shops but very TOWIE these days.

Note: I say that as an Essex resident.

I grew up in Loughton moved away in my mid 20's but still have family there. It's a nice place to live albeit very TOWIE now. Links into London are great for work and weekends and near the m11 and m25.

I have noticed an increase in muggings etc in last few years but not sure if that's the same everywhere?

There is a nice high street with lots of shops and places to eat and think the community for young families is good I have several friends there with pre schoolers and they do lots of activities d coffees etc.

Epping Forest is walkable as is the riding valley nature reserve both are lovely for walks and bike riding.

Think the schools are ok primary schools seem a mixed bag some great some not so much but catchment areas can be quite small for the better schools. There are two secondary schools both have had mixed past but think improved. Riding g Valley has just had a new sixth form centre built.