A picturesque market town set in idyllic countryside and steeped in medieval history, Saffron Walden has a quintessential charm that has made it a popular choice for generations of homeowners.

Admittedly I’m ever so slightly biased. I grew up in the area, have lived in the town for the last 30 years and my children all went to school here. But there is – in my humble opinion – a lovely sense of community and no better place to call home.

First called Walden and then Chipping Walden, the town officially changed its name in the early 1500s when the saffron crocus was grown extensively in the area and the saffron trade was at its peak.

Of course, much has changed in the intervening years. But one thing that has remained ever present is the award-winning market, which was first held in 1141. Now taking place on Tuesdays and Saturdays, there is always a great hum of excitement on market days. It provides a wonderful chance to chat with friends and neighbours and there is nothing I enjoy more than stopping by early in the morning to browse my favourite stalls selling everything from flowers, olives and Spanish meats to cheeses, fish, jewellery and clothing.

The popularity of Saffron Walden has seen the average house price increase by 16.5 per cent in the last five years to £420,764. The ‘race for space’ during the pandemic only increased this trend and the area proved especially popular among buyers from the capital who were looking for a move into the heart of East Anglia and this tranquil corner of north west Essex in particular.

Despite not having a train station of its own Saffron Walden offers excellent connectivity – Cambridge is some 15 miles away and there are also regular rail services into London from nearby Audley End Station. The town also offers a fine choice of schools and a plethora of independent retailers, cafés, pubs and delicatessens, some of which can be found in the Rows which has provided the town’s shopping centre since medieval times.

Saffron Walden’s links to its past are evident at every turn, with a stunning range of architecture. There are many fine period homes in Castle Street and Bridge End, for example, while other buildings of note include the Old Sun Inn, the Eight Bells, the timber-framed Cross Keys and the Grade I listed 1 Myddylton Place, which was formerly the youth hostel and is now believed to be one of the town’s oldest inhabited properties.

There is also plenty of open space and amenities to discover. I love a short walk around the Common – the oldest of Saffron Walden’s open spaces. From here you can pass through to the castle ruins and St Mary’s Church – the largest parish church in Essex – and finish in Bridge End Gardens, a true jewel in the crown perfect for a quiet wander. If it’s entertainment you’re after then Saffron Hall offers a fantastic selection of concerts throughout the year, while the independent Saffron Screen cinema is a firm favourite with film-goers. Both venues are situated within the grounds of Saffron Walden County High School and are hugely popular.

The recently extended Fry Art Gallery is always worth a visit, while there are plenty of clubs and societies to enjoy along with events such as the annual fireworks display and carnival organised by the Saffron Walden Round Table.

For those wanting to explore a little further afield then Audley End House is within easy reach; Audley End Park is free to access for lots of amazing walks and the miniature railway at Audley End is a fantastic year-round attraction for children. 

Complemented by a rich heritage, the Saffron Walden of today ticks many of the boxes of what buyers are looking for. It’s easy to see why the town has remained enduringly popular.  

Further information

Contact Lucy Banks

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