Roydon: Charming village named London's best commuter town by The Telegraph
The picturesque village on the Hertfordshire / Essex border has a strong rural feel, but is still close to London.
Quintessential, quirky and full of old-world charm, Roydon has been named London’s top commuter town by The Telegraph.
Situated just west of Harlow, on the Essex-Hertfordshire border, Roydon Station offers direct trains to London Liverpool Street in around 30 minutes—perfect for commuters who want green space without giving up city access. It’s also close to M25, A10, and Stansted Airport, making it well-connected by road too.
It’s a quiet, close-knit community that’s grown slightly over the years but still retains a classic English village charm. Expect charming cottages, converted barns, and newer family homes scattered throughout. The village green, flanked by period houses, pubs, and a little shop, gives it that timeless countryside appeal.
The parish church of St Peter dates back to the 13th century and adds to the village’s historic charm.
“A market runs on the second Saturday of every month, and it hosts its own annual art show, with more than 300 paintings on display. The People of Roydon, a community group, offers events like “Fish and chips Friday” and the annual Easter egg hunt.
“There’s a walking group every Thursday, a men’s curry evening, and a golf society. Indoor bowls, badminton, and the Women’s Institute (WI) are also on offer.
“Thriving football and cricket clubs are near the heart of the village. You could also walk a different local footpath every week, and it would still take you over a year to complete the whole set. Across from the lush village green, a set of stocks remains in place, fondly regarded as a nod to yesteryear”, adds The Telegraph.
The newspaper says: “As the train snakes north from Liverpool Street station, past high rises and through gritty industrial suburbs, the landscape soon gives way to lush greenery and winding waterways. Just half an hour after we leave, the train trundles into a quintessential English village.
“Welcome to Roydon, a picturesque place with barely 1,500 residents, which has been named The Telegraph’s best commuter town for London. Located on the Essex and Hertfordshire border, this village boasts quick access to London with no hustle and bustle.”
With famous residents over the years, including actor Ray Winstone and Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour, residents are far from surprised by its new rating.
The Telegraph spoke to resident Cheryl Lake, 41, who works for a financial services firm. She and her husband have been commuting from there for two decades.
She said: “We specially moved to Roydon because we wanted the best of both worlds – quick access into London, but having the green spaces and less hustle and bustle at the weekends.”
“We’re four stops from Liverpool Street. It’s a fantastic route, half an hour and you’re in. When I first moved here, my office was near Liverpool Street, so I had a shorter commute than most of my colleagues who lived in London. We’re made to feel so welcome and part of everything. We’ve recently had a child, and it’s a fantastic place to bring up a little girl.”
How much does it cost to live in Roydon?
Roydon is a sought-after spot for its countryside setting and train access to London. That combo means it’s not the cheapest village in Essex, but it’s still more affordable than inner London suburbs.
The average house price is around £750,000. Rentals can be scarce, but you're looking at £1,200–£2,000/month depending on size and location.