Moving to Woodford green

[zooey22]

Initially we were looking at wanstead, near nightingale estate. But the houses are quite small, more like 2 and half beds in our budget. We found a very nice property near woodford station. However, we are not familiar with the area. Is it more for the family or retired? The average age is pretty high. The high road seems small and the snake lane east feels a bit doogy. How do people usually go about? Do people just drive or take the tube to other station? Is there any community?

It’s ok! It’s quite safe, but there’s definitely less of a community than in say North Chingford or South Woodford. It’s quite family centric but it’s definitely quite a car culture - more Essex than London if you see what I mean?

What sort of thing are you looking for from an area?

Im currently living in Islington. We love the area, lots of trees, shops and restaurants but its very expensive to upsize. I think Wanstead offer similar vibes and offer nicer parks. Have been looking for an year in Wanstead

Ah! Then Wanstead, North Chingford, Highams Park, probably offer more what you’re looking for than Woodford Green I would say. Woodford Green is lovely, just a bit boring!

Nightingale estate is very popular in wanstead. And pricy. Agree chingford offers more than woodford green if you need more for your money than Wanstead. Also try Loughton or Buckhurst Hill if you wanted bigger high streets (but these are proper Essex!).

You could try Aldersbrook if you want a bigger property in/near wanstead (still within walking distance of wanstead high st but a conservation area so not much right outside your front door).

Would agree with above posters. My son goes to school in Woodford Green (live in North Chingford). Loughton and Buckhurst Hill good with supermarkets, cafes, restaurants, coffee shops as is North Chingford (no Waitroise or M&S in Chingford if that's a requirement). Houses pricier in the other areas and, as mentioned, more of an Essex vibe than Woodford.
Wanstead is very nice if you can nab something within budget. All areas mentioned have amazing forest on the doorstep so houses with great views or just access to green space are plenty.

Hey fellow N Chingforder!

@dreamersdown hey yourself. 👋🏾

Wanstead and snaresbrook always been pricey, plus lots of it in conservation areas so extensions could be tricky, woodford is fine, a bit dull for me, snakes lane is ok also, the one dodgy bar which was always raided for cocaine dealing etc has calmed down a bit now, not sure what it is now as changed frequently. go visit at night. If you want a huge house for less money then look at near redbridge station, nice big houses and gardens, many have garages, a bit dull but you get a lot of house for your money.