Is The High a Nice Place to Live?

So, you’re considering making The High in Harlow, Essex your new home, eh? Good on you for doing a bit of digging first. Located bang in the middle of Harlow, The High is known for its vibrant atmosphere and centrality. But, let’s be honest, not everything’s sunshine and rainbows. While there’s plenty to love, a few quirks might have you scratching your head. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of living in The High.

Is The High Safe?

Safety is one of those things everyone’s keen on. You’d want to know if you can stroll to the corner shop without feeling like you’re in a dodgy action flick. In The High, the story’s a bit of a mixed bag, really. There’ve been some eyebrow-raising incidents, especially around parking and shopping areas. Shoplifting seems to be the local hobby for some, and the supermarket aisles aren’t spared either. But, it’s not all gloom and doom. The High’s got its fair share of quiet, neighbourly streets where folks know each other and keep an eye out. Just be savvy about your surroundings, and you should be alright.

Is The High a Nice Place to Live for Families?

Now, if you’ve got kids, you’re probably wondering if The High is a match made in heaven or a headache waiting to happen. Let’s break it down.

Schools

The High’s got a handful of schools that parents chatter about at the school gate. Hare Street Community Primary School and Nursery is a gem, rated Outstanding and pretty popular. If you’re aiming for Pemberley Academy or Freshwaters Primary Academy, you’ll find them both up to snuff with Good ratings. But, getting a spot for your little ones might be a bit of a juggling act, especially since some of these schools are in the neighbouring zones.

On the secondary front, it’s a similar tale. Bmat Stem Academy and St Mark’s West Essex Catholic School hold up well with Good ratings. Just like primary schools, the struggle might lie in the competition for places as some might fall outside The High.

Parks and Playgrounds

When it comes to green spaces, The High doesn’t disappoint. Pop by any of the local parks, and you’ll see kids having a whale of a time. Pet’s Corner Playground is a hit with the little munchkins, while Northbrooks Park offers enough space to kick a ball around. It’s a lovely sight.

Family Activities

The High is dotted with family-friendly activities. Imagine a weekend packed with trips to the local library or splashing around in the nearby swimming pools. The community vibe is strong, with lots of families calling this area home.

Is The High Expensive?

Here’s where we talk moolah. The High has a bit of everything for everyone. Average house prices sit around £285,000, with terraced properties fetching around £315,000. Flats go for about £220,000, while semi-detached ones climb up to £340,000. Not too shabby, eh?

Renting? Well, it’s a mixed bag. You’re looking at about £1750 for a 3-bed house, while a 2-bed flat will set you back around £1400. One-bedders are a bit cheaper, though still a pinch at £1100 to £1150. If you’re after something more wallet-friendly, you might want to check out neighbouring towns like Bishops Stortford or even parts of Epping.

What Transport Links are There?

Getting around from The High is a doddle, really. Buses are frequent, connecting you to Harlow Town Station with trains zipping you to London Liverpool Street in about 40 minutes. Roads are well linked too, with the M11 nearby making commutes to London or Cambridge relatively painless. If you’re more of a cyclist, well, there are plenty of paths to zip through with the wind in your hair.

What Amenities are Available in The High?

The High is brimming with amenities. You won’t go hungry with a raft of restaurants like Nando’s and wagamama, alongside local favourites like mui & koko noodle bar. Fancy a pint? The William Aylmer is a solid choice, and The Greyhound’s got that classic pub vibe nailed down.

Shopping? Easy peasy. You’ve got your essentials sorted with Asda, Sainsbury’s, and Tesco Express right around the corner. The Town Centre Market is a gem for those spontaneous buys.

Healthcare’s covered too, with plenty of pharmacies, doctors, and vet clinics. Fitness buffs can choose from fitness centres and gyms aplenty. And yes, there’s even a couple of libraries for the bookworms.

What is the Surrounding Outdoor Area Like?

If the great outdoors tickles your fancy, The High has you sorted. Harlow Town Park is a favourite, sprawling with paths perfect for a leisurely stroll or a brisk jog. Oakwood Pond is a peaceful retreat, and for those with green fingers, The Dashes allotment offers a slice of countryside right in town. It’s a lovely mix of urban and nature.

So, What’s the Verdict?

Is The High a nice place to live? Well, if you’re after a lively community with loads of amenities and decent transport links, it’s a winner. Families will find plenty to keep the kids busy, though the competition for school places might be a tad stressful. Safety could be better, but it’s manageable with a bit of street smarts. Prices are on the higher side, but neighbouring areas might offer some relief.

What are the Alternatives?

If The High doesn’t tick all your boxes, nearby areas like Old Harlow or Bishops Stortford might be worth a look. They offer a quieter vibe, often with more spacious properties and less hustle. Epping is another good shout, especially for those wanting a blend of town and country, albeit at a steeper price.

There you have it – the inside scoop on The High. Wherever you end up, here’s hoping you find a place that feels like home.