Is Saffron Walden a nice place to live?
Posted March 11th 2025 by Blake Kingston
Is Saffron Walden a nice area to live in?
Tucked away in the Essex countryside, Saffron Walden is a medieval market town ranked the best place to live in the 2025 edition of the Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide.
For home buyers, especially young families looking for a quieter country area to raise their children, Saffron Walden might be the perfect prospect.
In this area guide we’ll be taking a closer look at Saffron Walden and running through anything you might want to know about the town, from transport links and schools, to shops and the state of the housing market to find out what makes this charming village one of the top places to call home.
What is transport like in Saffron Walden?
Saffron Walden is located between a number of major towns and cities by road, making it an excellent commuter town. Bishop's Stortford, Stevenage and Chelmsford are all less than an hour away, and with connections to the M11, London and Cambridge are also easily accessible.
Audley End train station has direct links to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street, reaching the capital in under one hour. Stansted Airport is also close by for international travel.
And whether you're looking to get around on two wheels or simply enjoy the extra activity, the village offers many greater cycling routes and clubs, including the Walden Velo.
Are there any good schools in Saffron Walden?
There are a number of highly rated schools in and around Saffron Walden, making it perfect for families looking to settle down. There are a number of highly rated primary and secondary schools in the area, from Katherine Semar Junior School and Saffron Walden County High School, both rated Outstanding by Ofsted, to Ashdon Primary School and Joyce Franklin Academy, both rated Good.
In terms of higher education, Hertford Regional College and Braintree College are both under an hours’ drive away and offer a wide range of academic and vocational courses. There are also a number of highly rated universities in the nearby city of Cambridge, from Anglia Ruskin to the famed University of Cambridge itself.
What is there to do in Saffron Walden?
Saffron Walden is a town with a long, rich history and so is full of sites and attractions that are great for family days out. The Saffron Walden Museum contains a number of varied collections, from ancient Greece and Egypt to social and local history. Right next to it is Walden Castle, the ruins of a tower that dates back to the 11th century, as well as the largest turf maze of its type in England. There is also Bridge End Garden, a gorgeous walled garden and hedge maze built in 1840 which is free to the public. And Audley End House and Gardens is one of England's grandest mansions, featuring stunning architecture, beautifully landscaped gardens designed by Capability Brown, and a rich history that offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent past.
As well as historical activities, there is the nearby Saffron Grange Vineyard, which offers vineyard tours and wine tasting. For fitness, residents can enjoy the Saffron Walden Golf Club, Saffron Walden Cricket Club, and the Lord Butler Fitness & Leisure Centre, which has a number of exercise classes and a 25m pool.
When it comes to dining and socialising, Saffron Walden does not disappoint. The Restaurant on Church Street provides an intimate setting with a warm and elegant atmosphere, serving a modern European menu with a North African twist. For a blend of history and contemporary design, the Cross Keys Hotel and Restaurant offers delicious food and a great selection of wines. Chaters, a cool independent spot, is known for its specialty coffee, fresh pasta, and natural wine, making it a favourite among locals.
The Kings Arms, a traditional pub dating back to the 16th century, is celebrated for its friendly atmosphere and live music, while the Market House Bar with Tapas is a stylish venue popular for its cocktails and late-night ambiance on weekends. The Old English Gentleman, a warm and friendly 19th-century pub, boasts a fantastic lunch menu and a welcoming atmosphere. For those who enjoy sports, the town offers facilities like the Bowls Club and the Shire Hill Snooker Club, catering to lawn bowls and snooker enthusiasts respectively.
Nature lovers will appreciate the beautiful green spaces at The Common and Audley End Estate, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation. These areas provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of Saffron Walden.
Overall, Saffron Walden is a town that offers a perfect blend of history, community, and modern amenities, making it an ideal place to live and visit. Whether you're exploring its shops, dining at its restaurants, or enjoying its green spaces, there's something for everyone in this charming town.
What is the housing market like in Saffron Walden?
According to Rightmove, house prices in Saffron Walden have had an overall average of £439,067 over the last year.
The majority of properties sold were terraced houses, which fetched an average price of £391,749. Semi-detached properties sold for an average of £463,369, while flats were priced at an average of £207,061.
Overall, the historical sold prices in Saffron Walden over the last year were 7% lower than the previous year and 6% down from the 2022 peak of £465,195.
If you're interested in living in Saffron Walden, check out all the properties we currently have listed in the area, and contact our local branch for any information you might need.
