Walthamstow: Up and coming London

Background

Situated in the London borough of Waltham Forest, Walthamstow is on the frontier of the city's East End and the county of Essex.

It is also surrounded by greenery for those who appreciate the great outdoors with Epping Forest to the east and Hackney Marshes to the south-west. If that was not enough, the Lea Valley and the soon to be completed Olympic Park should keep adventurous types well entertained.

Furthermore, with a excellent choice of nightlife, eateries and the largest market street in Europe, which is open six days a week, this is easily one of the capital's more desirable places and appears to be increasing in popularity.

Property

Buying a property means looking at prices above the UK average and Walthamstow is no different.

Recent figures from the Land Registry for February 2010 reveal that the average cost of a home is £231,222, an increase in price of almost eight per cent since July last year.

Breaking down the figures, people can expect to pay an average of £372,398 for a detached house, while a semi-detached place could cost around £307,574 and terraced home might set people back approximately £242,689.

Even a maisonette or flats in the area are valued at £182,291, almost £18,000 above the average price of a property in the UK.

The data may encourage more people to consider looking at property to rent in Walthamstow.

Potential tenants could find a studio pad from as little as £477 a month, while one-bedroom homes are available for around £750 on average.

Furthermore, a two-bed abode could cost just £823 and a three-bedroom place from £1,027.

Transport

It is in an ideal spot for those looking to commute into the City with London Liverpool St station only a 20-minute train journey away from Walthamstow Central.

From the same starting point, a Victoria Line train can get people to King's Cross interchange in around 26 minutes, with nearby Euston and Oxford Circus, with its popular shopping district, only a little further along the route.

As well as the six rail and underground stations on offer, there are also plenty of bus routes to and from the town to help get around, whether it is work or play.

As a bonus, given its location, residents are approximately 40 minutes from Stansted Airport for those looking to jet off for a relaxing break.

Amenities

Walthamstow is blessed with one of the largest street markets in the city for those looking for a bargain.

In addition, the amount of shops available in the area could be enough to dent any credit card and that is before anyone mentions the building of Westfield Stratford City, a super-size shopping centre due to open next year.

Meanwhile, the area is stacked with restaurants catering for a vast array of domestic and international cuisines.

A vibrant nightlife is sure to attract people who like to let their hair down. However, those who prefer a more relaxed evening out are equally looked after in Walthamstow.

With fantastic transport links, amenities and surroundings, many people may want to steal a march in what appears to be one of London most promising areas to live.

Written by Andy Britten

Published 26th April, 2010

© 2010 Estates IT Limited