Havering is often described as London’s most suburban borough, and for many people, that is exactly its appeal. Located in the far east of Greater London, Havering offers a rare combination of space, greenery, strong transport links, and a slower pace of life, while still remaining part of the capital.
For families, professionals, retirees, and anyone seeking more room without leaving London entirely, Havering consistently ranks as one of the most desirable boroughs in East London and Essex-border areas. This in-depth guide explores the best areas to live in Havering, examining housing, lifestyle, transport, schools, safety, and who each area is best suited for.
This article is written to help renters, buyers, and movers make informed decisions, with a neutral, informative tone.
Why Havering Is One Of London’s Most Desirable Boroughs
Havering covers a large geographic area and feels very different from inner and even much of outer London. Many residents describe it as having more in common with Essex towns than central London neighbourhoods, yet with the benefit of London transport and services.
Space And Housing
One of Havering’s biggest advantages is space. Homes are typically:
- Larger than inner London properties
- More likely to have gardens and driveways
- Lower density, with quieter streets
This makes Havering especially appealing to families and long-term residents.
Green Spaces And Environment
Havering has more green space than most London boroughs, including:
- Parks and playing fields
- Nature reserves
- Riverside walks along the Thames in Rainham
The borough has a strong focus on outdoor living and community spaces.
Transport Links
Despite its suburban feel, Havering is well connected:
- Elizabeth line services from Romford, Gidea Park, and Harold Wood
- Overground and National Rail services
- Easy access to the A12, A127, and M25
Commute times to central London are often 30 to 45 minutes, depending on location.
Community And Safety
Havering consistently records lower crime rates than many London boroughs. While no area is crime-free, Havering is widely regarded as one of London’s safer places to live.
Romford
Best for: Commuters, shoppers, renters, first-time buyers
Romford is the largest town centre in Havering and serves as the borough’s commercial and transport hub.
Town Centre Living
Romford offers:
- A large shopping centre
- Restaurants, cafés, and cinemas
- Nightlife options compared to other parts of Havering
It is one of the few areas in the borough that feels busy and urban.
Transport
Romford Station is a major advantage:
- Elizabeth line services to central London and Heathrow
- National Rail services into Liverpool Street
- Frequent bus connections across the borough
This makes Romford ideal for commuters who want suburban living with strong connectivity.
Housing
Housing options include:
- New apartment developments near the station
- Victorian and Edwardian houses
- Post-war housing estates further out
Things To Consider
- Busier than other parts of Havering
- Some areas close to the town centre can be noisy
Romford suits people who want convenience, transport, and amenities close at hand.
Gidea Park
Best for: Families, professionals, long-term buyers
Gidea Park is often considered one of Havering’s most desirable residential areas.
Character And Atmosphere
Gidea Park is known for:
- Leafy streets
- Large period homes
- A calm, affluent feel
It has a strong reputation for stability and community.
Transport
Gidea Park Station is served by the Elizabeth line, offering:
- Fast journeys into central London
- Direct connections to Canary Wharf and Heathrow
Schools
The area is popular with families due to:
- Well-regarded schools
- Safe, residential streets
- Proximity to parks
Things To Consider
- Higher property prices than much of Havering
- Limited nightlife and entertainment
Gidea Park is ideal for those seeking long-term family living with excellent transport.
Upminster
Best for: Families, professionals, village-style living
Upminster is one of Havering’s most attractive areas and is often described as having a village feel.
High Street And Community
Upminster’s high street offers:
- Independent shops
- Cafés and restaurants
- A strong local identity
It feels more like a commuter town than a London suburb.
Transport
Upminster benefits from:
- District line Underground services
- C2C rail services into Fenchurch Street
- Road access via the A127
This combination makes commuting flexible.
Housing
Homes in Upminster tend to be:
- Larger detached or semi-detached properties
- Well-maintained
- Family-oriented
Things To Consider
- Higher house prices
- Less suitable for those wanting city nightlife
Upminster suits people who want space, community, and strong transport links.
Hornchurch
Best for: Families, retirees, suburban living
Hornchurch strikes a balance between convenience and calm.
Lifestyle
Hornchurch offers:
- A lively but manageable town centre
- Parks and green spaces
- Cultural venues, including theatres
It is quieter than Romford but more active than smaller residential areas.
Transport
Hornchurch Station sits on the District line, providing:
- Direct Underground access into central London
- Easy links to neighbouring areas
Housing
Housing stock includes:
- 1930s semi-detached homes
- Bungalows
- Modern developments on the outskirts
Things To Consider
- Limited rail options compared to Romford
- Busy roads near the town centre
Hornchurch is ideal for those seeking suburban comfort with some town centre energy.
Harold Wood
Best for: Commuters, families, buyers seeking value
Harold Wood has grown in popularity following transport improvements.
Transport Upgrade
Harold Wood Station is now served by the Elizabeth line, significantly improving:
- Commute times
- Accessibility to central London
Housing
The area offers:
- Good-sized family homes
- More affordable prices than Gidea Park or Upminster
- Quiet residential streets
Community
Harold Wood appeals to families and professionals who want:
- A suburban environment
- Reliable transport
- Better value for money
Things To Consider
- Fewer shopping and entertainment options
- Car often useful for daily life
Harold Wood is a strong choice for commuters seeking space and value.
Rainham
Best for: Buyers, nature lovers, long-term growth
Rainham is one of Havering’s most distinctive areas, combining industry, housing, and nature.
Riverside And Green Spaces
Rainham is close to:
- Thames riverside paths
- Nature reserves
- Open marshland
This makes it appealing to those who enjoy outdoor living.
Regeneration Potential
Parts of Rainham are undergoing gradual regeneration, which may:
- Improve amenities
- Increase property values over time
Housing
Housing includes:
- Terraced houses
- Newer developments
- Older properties near industrial zones
Things To Consider
- Fewer amenities than other areas
- Some industrial surroundings
Rainham suits buyers focused on long-term potential and green surroundings.
Elm Park
Best for: First-time buyers, budget-conscious families
Elm Park offers one of the more affordable entry points into Havering.
Affordability
Property prices in Elm Park tend to be:
- Lower than Hornchurch or Upminster
- More accessible for first-time buyers
Transport
Elm Park Station sits on the District line, offering:
- Direct Underground access
- Reasonable commute times
Housing
Housing stock includes:
- 1930s houses
- Smaller family homes
- Quiet residential streets
Things To Consider
- Limited nightlife and entertainment
- Smaller high street
Elm Park is ideal for those wanting Havering living at a lower cost.
Safety And Quality Of Life In Havering
Havering consistently records lower crime levels than many London boroughs. Areas such as:
- Gidea Park
- Upminster
- Hornchurch
are often highlighted as particularly safe and family-friendly.
As always, safety can vary by street, and prospective residents should research specific locations.
Schools And Education
Education is one of Havering’s strongest selling points.
The borough offers:
- Numerous primary schools
- Well-performing secondary schools
- Colleges and sixth forms
This makes Havering particularly attractive to families planning to stay long term.
Green Spaces And Outdoor Living
Havering stands out for its green spaces, including:
- Large parks
- Nature reserves
- Thames-side walking routes
This contributes significantly to residents’ quality of life.
Transport And Commuting Overview
Havering offers a mix of:
- Elizabeth line services
- Underground connections
- National Rail
- Major road links
This makes it one of the best-connected outer London boroughs.
Who Havering Is Best For
Havering is particularly well suited to:
- Families needing space
- Professionals commuting into London
- Retirees seeking quiet surroundings
- Buyers priced out of inner London
- Long-term residents
It may be less suitable for those seeking a fast-paced, nightlife-heavy lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
The best areas to live in Havering depend on your priorities:
- Romford for transport and amenities
- Gidea Park for prestige and family living
- Upminster for village atmosphere
- Hornchurch for balance and community
- Harold Wood for value and commuting
- Rainham for nature and future growth
- Elm Park for affordability
Havering continues to stand out as one of London’s most livable and family-friendly boroughs, offering space, safety, and strong transport connections.
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only. Information about areas, property, safety, transport, and amenities may change over time and can vary by location.
Nothing in this post should be taken as professional, legal, financial, or property advice. Readers should carry out their own research before making any decisions.
London 33 accepts no liability for reliance on the information provided.