Looking to live in… Dedham!

With many looking to buy outside of London and commute, we dig deeper into why Dedham is a growing relocation hotspot.
An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty lying on the border between Essex and Suffolk and only a stone’s throw from Manningtree railway station and the A12, Dedham is a growing hotspot for those looking to commute into London. Trains run regularly to both Norwich and London (expect a 55-65 minute commute) and you can keep your journey green by either cycling or walking along the banks of the River Stour.
Dedham is a vibrant village boasting an array of social clubs, independent shops and local amenities, as well as great pubs and restaurants. The Essex Rose, run by the renowned jam company Tiptree, is a local favourite and the perfect spot for afternoon tea.
Plenty of green spaces and beautiful country walks only add to its character and appeal, with Dedham frequently being recognised for having some of the country’s most beautiful lowland landscape. It is perhaps no wonder that Dedham was the backdrop of choice for artists such as Constable and Gainsborough.
Fenn Wright’s property expert Briege Waterson said: “Dedham’s history and welcoming community are a real draw for tourists, locals and potential buyers wanting to experience Dedham’s charm.
“The village and surrounding area boast highly rated Ofsted schools, including the ‘outstanding’ Dedham Church of England Primary School and East Bergholt High School. There are also great independent schools located close by in both Essex and Suffolk, such as the prestigious Littlegarth School.”
Local resident Vicky Morley said: “Great schools, shops and restaurants within walking distance and a safe, welcoming and vibrant village community mean Dedham is the perfect place to bring up children.”
Primarily a farming hub for East Anglia, the village has seen few new developments, so houses are sought after and sell fast. Briege added: “Buyers need to act quickly if they see something they like in Dedham. Homes priced for the mid to lower end of the market generally sell in around two weeks depending on market conditions. The increasing popularity of the area also means you’re likely to pay a premium.”
If you’re looking for a new build home here are three options worth considering: The Heath combines a contemporary interior within a rural setting; Summers Park is set to become the area’s most desirable new address boasting traditionally built two, three, four and five bedroom houses; and Hallfields is an option if you’re after a coach house style bungalow.
Early viewings are recommended. There are only two plots remaining at Hallfields.
“Dedham has a real buzz in the summer months with plenty of village fetes, street fairs and ready to hire boats on the River Stour. During these events parking can be limited, but there are two public car parks that can ease parking issues”, says Briege.
“There is a great range of properties in Dedham from timber-framed manors to Georgian farmhouses and thatched cottages. If you’re keen to move to Dedham and have spotted a home that you’d love to make your own, we would recommend that you act quickly and arrange a viewing at your earliest convenience.”
See all homes for sale in Dedham