Is Berners Roding a Nice Place to Live?

Berners Roding, a small village tucked away in the district of Ongar, Essex, is a hidden gem with its own unique charm. If you’re pondering whether this quaint village is the right fit for you, it’s essential to weigh the ups and downs. Situated in a serene rural setting, Berners Roding offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. However, it does come with its own set of challenges, including limited amenities and a lack of public transport options. But let’s delve deeper and see what living in Berners Roding really entails.

Is Berners Roding safe?

When it comes to safety, Berners Roding is considered relatively secure. The crime rates are generally low, especially compared to other parts of Essex. However, like any other area, it has its moments. Most of the reported crimes occur on or near Ongar Road, primarily consisting of other-theft and some instances of violent crimes. The village, however, boasts a remarkable reduction in burglary rates, making it one of the safer places to leave your front door unlocked. Residents often describe it as a place where they feel secure to take evening strolls or leave their cars parked outside overnight. In essence, safety in Berners Roding shouldn’t be a major concern for potential residents.

Is Berners Roding a nice place to live for families?

Families considering a move to Berners Roding will find a mixed bag of experiences. While the village’s tranquil environment is perfect for raising children, the lack of local schools might be a significant drawback. There are no outstanding primary or secondary schools in Berners Roding itself.

Primary Schools

The nearest primary school, Rodings Primary School, is located about 2.37 miles away and is rated ‘Good’. While this is a decent option, it does mean that children will need to travel outside the village for education, and competition for places can be stiff. Parents often find themselves on waiting lists or considering schools in neighbouring areas.

Secondary Schools

When it comes to secondary education, the choices are even more limited, with no outstanding schools in the immediate vicinity. Families often have to look towards larger towns like Ongar or even Chelmsford for better educational opportunities.

Family Activities

On the brighter side, Berners Roding offers a fantastic outdoor environment for children to explore. The village is surrounded by lush green fields, making it ideal for family picnics, walks, and other outdoor activities. However, the absence of local parks and playgrounds means that families will need to travel for more structured activities.

Is Berners Roding expensive?

If you’re eyeing property in Berners Roding, be prepared for a bit of a financial commitment. The average house price in the village over the past year was around £500,000. This is relatively high compared to some neighbouring areas, primarily due to the idyllic rural setting and the tranquility it offers.

Rental properties, on the other hand, are scarce and often come with a premium price tag. If you’re looking for more affordable options, you might want to consider nearby towns like Ongar or even Epping, where you can find a broader range of housing options at varying price points.

What transport links are there?

Transport can be a bit of a headache in Berners Roding. The village lacks a direct public transport system, which means you’ll need a car to get around. The nearest train station is in Ongar, and even then, services can be infrequent. For daily commuters, this could mean longer travel times and a reliance on personal vehicles. However, the road accessibility is decent, with the A414 and M11 motorway not too far away, providing reasonable links to larger towns and cities.

What amenities are available in Berners Roding?

One of the significant drawbacks of living in Berners Roding is the lack of local amenities. There are no pubs, restaurants, or shops within the village itself. This means residents often have to travel to neighbouring towns for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The closest healthcare facilities are also located in Ongar, which can be inconvenient for those who require regular medical attention.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

Despite its shortcomings, Berners Roding excels when it comes to natural beauty. The village is surrounded by picturesque countryside, offering numerous walking trails and scenic spots. Nearby parks like Hatfield Forest and Epping Forest provide excellent opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether you’re into hiking, bird watching, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk, the outdoor areas around Berners Roding are a major plus.

So, what’s the verdict?

Berners Roding is a charming village that offers a peaceful and safe environment, making it an attractive option for those looking to escape the busyness of city life. However, the lack of amenities, schools, and public transport options can be significant drawbacks. If you don’t mind these limitations and are looking for a serene place to call home, Berners Roding could be the perfect fit for you.

What are the alternatives?

If Berners Roding doesn’t quite tick all your boxes, there are several nearby alternatives worth considering. Ongar, for instance, offers more amenities, better transport links, and a range of housing options. Epping is another excellent choice with its vibrant community and excellent schools. Each of these nearby towns has its own set of pros and cons, but they all provide a bit more in terms of facilities and convenience compared to Berners Roding.

In the end, choosing the right place to live depends on what you value most. Berners Roding offers tranquility and safety but falls short in amenities and transport. Weigh your options carefully, and you’ll find the perfect spot to call home.