By John Frost, Director at Martin & Co Chelmsford
If you’re searching for a place with a true sense of community, excellent schools, great local amenities and easy access to London, Great Baddow ticks all the boxes. Just two miles southeast of Chelmsford city centre, this well-loved suburb offers a peaceful lifestyle with all the convenience of city living nearby.
This guide covers everything you need to know about living in Great Baddow — property prices, local schools, commuting, things to do and where to find your next home.
Where is Great Baddow?
Great Baddow sits just outside Chelmsford’s city centre, to the south and east of the River Chelmer. It’s perfectly positioned for access to the A12 and A130, and just a 10-minute drive or short bus ride from Chelmsford railway station.
Its central location means you can enjoy everything the city has to offer while living in a quieter, greener setting.
What’s it like to live in Great Baddow?
Great Baddow strikes a balance between village character and city convenience. It’s known for:
- A lively community feel
- Quiet, tree-lined streets with a mix of period and modern homes
- A conservation area and listed buildings that give it historic charm
- Plenty of green spaces, parks and sports facilities for families
- A wide choice of homes, appealing to first-time buyers, growing families and downsizers
It’s a favourite among commuters and property investors, thanks to its strong demand and reliable rental yields.
Property prices and housing
The area offers a mix of period cottages, Victorian terraces, mid-century semis, and modern family homes. Popular developments include Beehive Lane and Dorset Avenue.
Average property prices (July 2025):
- Detached homes: £660,000
- Semi-detached homes: £450,000
- Terraced properties: £370,000
- Flats: £230,000
The average sold price currently stands at £436,000, with a 3% rise in the past year, showing continued demand from both local buyers and those moving out of London.
Rental market
Great Baddow’s rental market is strong, especially for family homes and commuter-friendly flats. Average monthly rents are:
- 2-bedroom flats: £1,200–£1,350
- 3-bedroom houses: £1,450–£1,750
Homes here are snapped up quickly, with steady tenant demand throughout the year.
Schools and education
Families are drawn to Great Baddow for its well-rated schools.
Primary schools:
- Baddow Hall Infant & Junior Schools – both rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted
- Larkrise Primary School – also rated ‘Good’
Secondary schools:
- Great Baddow High School – popular for its sports specialism and results
- Moulsham High School – a strong option just outside the area
Grammar schools nearby:
Chelmsford boasts two of the country’s leading grammar schools, King Edward VI Grammar School (KEGS) and Chelmsford County High School for Girls (CCHSG). Properties in their catchment areas are highly sought after.
Commuting and transport
Great Baddow is ideal for commuters. You can expect:
- 10 minutes by car or bus to Chelmsford station
- 35–40 minutes by train to London Liverpool Street
- Quick access to the A12 and A130 for routes to London, Brentwood and Colchester
Regular bus routes and the nearby Chelmer Park park-and-ride service make travelling around Chelmsford easy and stress-free.
Shops, pubs and local amenities
The Vineyards shopping precinct is the village hub, offering:
- Tesco Express and Co-op
- Local favourites such as a florist, bakery, butchers and off-licence
- Hairdressers, opticians and chemists
- GP surgery and dental practices
For eating out, try:
- Russells, Bell Street – dine in one of Chelmsford oldest buildings
- Moda Restaurant – a popular family owned restaurant
- The Blue Lion – a welcoming family and dog friendly pub
Parks and outdoor spaces
Families and outdoor lovers will enjoy:
- Great Baddow Recreation Ground – with tennis courts, play areas and open fields
- Chelmer Park – known for cricket, dog walks and community events
- Beehive Lane Playing Fields – another great option for outdoor fun
There are also scenic walking and cycling routes along the River Chelmer and the grounds of Hylands Park just a short drive away.
Who lives in Great Baddow?
The area appeals to a wide mix of residents, including:
- Families looking for space, schools and parks
- Young professionals commuting into London
- Downsizers seeking a friendly suburban setting
- Property investors interested in strong yields and capital growth
What does a local expert say?
“I’ve worked in Chelmsford’s property market for years, and Great Baddow is always in demand. It’s the sort of place where people settle down for the long term — great schools, welcoming pubs and an easy commute make it hard to beat.”
– John Frost, Director, Martin & Co Chelmsford
Why move to Great Baddow?
- Great schools: From early years to grammar, the area is well covered
- Plenty of green space: Parks and playing fields for every age
- Transport links: Easy access to Chelmsford city centre and London
- Good value: More affordable than the city centre but just as well connected
- A strong sense of community: With markets, groups and events that bring people together
Thinking of moving to Great Baddow?
If Great Baddow sounds like your next home, Martin & Co Chelmsford can help. Whether you’re buying, selling, renting or investing, we offer:
- Local expertise: We know Great Baddow’s streets and schools inside out
- Accurate valuations: Get a free property valuation you can trust
- Personal service: We’ll help you find the right home or buyer
- Extensive listings: We’re always adding new properties in and around Great Baddow
Start your move today:
- Book your free property valuation
- Call or visit our Chelmsford branch to talk through your plans
- Sign up for property alerts to stay ahead of the market
