Loughton - thoughts?

[Pebble294]

We are looking to buy next year and interested in the Loughton area. We previously lived in Wanstead (sadly we cannot afford here) and like loughton for its proximity to the forest. We are looking to start a family in the next few years so need to think about nurseries/primary schools but will likely move further out for more space before secondary school.

I would love to know how people find living in Loughton? As a woman do you feel safe walking home from the tube at night? Is it a nice place to be on maternity leave? Are the nurseries good?

Thanks in advance!

I love Loughton. We’ve lived here since May and are currently looking to buy (rented initially to trial the area). I will however say that for what we are looking for (4 bed detached) there are many more options on the market in Wanstead and for a lower price too. Loughton is expensive! There’s an abundance of nurseries as 3 new ones opening up in the next few months between Loughton and Buckhurst Hill but from what I’ve seen, surprisingly few schools to choose from. My LG is 10 months old for reference so I haven’t hugely looked into schools yet!

I feel safe walking from the tube at night (we are a 5 min walk) and I’ve done most of my mat leave here and there are a huge amount of baby classes etc and the town is well setup with cafes with play areas etc