Key takeaways
- Safe, family-friendly area with low crime and strong community spirit
- Excellent schools including top-rated grammar and primary options
- Direct Central line access to London plus reliable local bus routes
- Surrounded by green spaces like Epping Forest, Highams Park and Wanstead Park
- House prices dropped in 2025 but expected to rebound, offering long-term value
If you're looking for a village way of life without sacrificing your ties to the inner city, living in Woodford Green is the answer. HOLD Self Storage is opening a brand new storage facility overlooking the green in late 2026, so we thought we’d give you a tour of our soon-to-be new neighbourhood.
Woodford Green offers a blend of leafy charm, excellent schools, and easy access to London. The area is home to several excellent schools, making it an attractive option for families. Open spaces, such as Epping Forest and Highams Park, are a highlight of the local area.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about living, visiting, or storing belongings in this vibrant area. Whether you’re a family, commuter, or nature lover, Woodford Green has something for everyone.
Table of contents
- Location and overview
- A brief history
- Living in Woodford Green
- Shopping, dining and more
- Education and healthcare
- Parks, green spaces and outdoor activities
- Family-friendly activities and community events
- Arts, culture, and historical sites
- Community and lifestyle
- Crime rates and safety
- Transport and accessibility
Location and overview
Woodford Green is a picturesque suburb that combines the tranquillity of lush green spaces with urban amenities, close to Epping Forest and with strong transport links. The area is especially popular with young families due to its good schools and open spaces.
The sought-after Monkhams Avenue is just a short walk from Woodford Tube station, while Glengall Road features a mix of period and more recent builds. With close proximity to central London, Woodford Green is ideal for commuters.
A brief history
Woodford Green’s history is rich and varied, with roots stretching back to Saxon times. The area features Victorian and Edwardian houses, especially along Snakes Lane East, and has been home to notable figures, including former prime ministers.
Woodford Green was formerly part of Essex before becoming part of Greater London. Modern Woodford Green retains its historic character while offering contemporary amenities.
Living in Woodford Green
Housing market
Woodford Green’s property market is in a period of transition. According to RightMove, of early 2025, the average house price is £566,900, down 22.67% from £733,063 last year. Sales volumes have also slowed, with just 13 homes sold recently: a 23.53% drop year-on-year. Month-on-month, prices dipped by 1.37% and sales volumes fell 35%.
Despite the current slowdown, forecasts suggest a potential rebound. Some analysts predict a price increase of up to 36% over the next year, which could signal a return in buyer confidence and renewed long-term value for the area.
Woodford Green continues to attract families and investors thanks to its wide variety of homes, including:
- Detached and semi-detached houses
- Victorian and Edwardian terraces on Snakes Lane and Monkhams Avenue
- Modern flats and newer developments in Repton Park
Its tree-lined streets, village feel, and proximity to green space continue to make it a desirable place to buy — even in a fluctuating market.
Renting in Woodford Green
Renting in Woodford Green
Rental supply in Woodford Green remains tight and demand is high. According to Home.co.uk the average monthly rent in the wider Woodford area is approximately £2,000 pcm. For specific listings, Rightmove shows two-bedroom flats renting around £1,850–£2,250 pcm, while larger properties (such as three-bedroom homes) are listed at £2,350–£3,250 pcm.
This pricing reflects both the area’s desirability and the scarcity of available properties. Rental stock ranges from one and two-bedroom flats to family-sized homes, but they tend to be snapped up quickly due to strong competition.
Woodford Green council tax
For families considering a move to Woodford Green, understanding local council tax rates is important. Woodford Green falls within the London Borough of Redbridge, which has eight council tax bands (A–H) based on property values as of April 1991.
For the 2025/26 financial year, council tax rates in Redbridge are as follows:
- Band A (up to £40,000): £1,459.78
- Band B (£40,001–£52,000): £1,625.45
- Band C (£52,001–£68,000): £1,857.66
- Band D (£68,001–£88,000): £2,089.87
- Band E (£88,001–£120,000): £2,554.29
- Band F (£120,001–£160,000): £3,018.70
- Band G (£160,001–£320,000): £3,483.12
- Band H (over £320,000): £4,179.74
These rates include the Greater London Authority (GLA) precept. Most homes in Woodford Green will typically fall into the higher bands due to property values, but the council tax helps fund local services and community initiatives that benefit families and residents.
If you believe your property is in the wrong band, you can appeal through the Valuation Office Agency.
Shopping, dining, and more
Supermarkets and local shops
Woodford Green offers a wide range of shopping options to suit every need. The High Road and surrounding streets are lined with both major supermarkets and charming independent retailers.
Tesco Superstore: Open most days from early morning until midnight and offers an extensive selection of food, household essentials, pharmacy services, and a travel money bureau.
Tesco Express: Provides fresh and frozen food, drinks, and household items, with long opening hours and quick service.
Co-operative Food: Located on Snakes Lane West, is another popular choice for everyday essentials.
In addition to these chains, you'll find a variety of independent shops and boutiques in the area, offering everything from deli foods and specialist groceries to fashion, books, and gifts.
Find in maps:
Cafés and restaurants
Woodford Green boasts a lively food scene, with cosy cafes and traditional pubs.
Storia Woodford Green: A highly rated Italian restaurant, praised for its fresh cuisine and welcoming atmosphere.
The Broadway Meze Restaurant: Serves authentic Mediterranean and Turkish dishes in a modern setting.
Mojos Brasserie: A local favourite, offering delicious breakfasts, lunches, and early evening dinners in a warm, welcoming venue.
HoneyimHomeCoffee: Another standout. An organic coffee shop and bakery known for its freshly baked sourdough, pastries, and premium honey, as well as its cosy, community-focused vibe.
Find in maps:
Pubs and drink scene
Woodford Green has a lively and welcoming pub scene, with several traditional and modern venues to choose from.
The Crown & Crooked Billet: A popular, family-friendly pub with a large conservatory, cosy seating, and a sunny garden. Perfect for meeting friends or enjoying a weekend drink.
The Travellers Friend: Another local favourite, offering outdoor seating and live music in a friendly, award-winning environment.
The Rose & Crown: A traditional British pub with a beer garden, sports TV, and regular events. Ideal for watching football or relaxing with friends.
The Three Jolly Wheelers: Offers classic pub dishes, a well-stocked bar, and a cosy atmosphere.
Find in maps:
Education and healthcare
Woodford Green offers a selection of highly regarded private schools and state schools, several if which are rated outstanding by Ofsted.
Schools
Woodford Green is highly regarded for its excellent schools, making it a prime choice for families. The area features a mix of outstanding and good-rated state and independent schools, with Ofsted (the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills) regularly inspecting and reporting on school quality.
- Woodford Green Primary School: The school consistently achieves well above national averages in Key Stage 2 results, with over 90% of pupils meeting expected standards in reading and writing, and 83% meeting combined standards.
- Woodford County High School (Girls): Inspectors praised the school for its high-quality education and outstanding sixth form provision, noting that “pupils flourish, both personally and in their academic studies". One of the top grammar schools in the country, known for academic excellence and strong pastoral care.
- Woodbridge High School: A large, popular secondary school with a good Ofsted rating and a reputation for inclusivity and strong results.
Healthcare facilities
Woodford Green benefits from a range of accessible healthcare services, including GP surgeries, clinics, and nearby hospitals.
GP Surgeries
- Roding Valley Medical Centre: Currently accepting new patients.
- Avicenna Health: General practice, remote triage, diagnostics, repeat prescriptions, and preventive care. Rated “Good” across all key areas (last checked May 2019).
Hospitals and Specialist Care
- Practice Plus Group Hospital: Planned surgery for NHS, private, and insured patients. Offers orthopaedic, general, eye, and diagnostic services. Rated “Good” by the Care Quality Commission.
- Spire London East Hospital: Comprehensive private healthcare, including diagnostics, surgery, and physiotherapy.
- Harley Fitzrovia Health (Woodford Green): Private healthcare, specialist clinics, and diagnostic services. Recognised by Bupa and other insurers.
Parks, green spaces, and outdoor activities
Woodford Green is surrounded by exceptional green spaces that offer both natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Buckhurst Hill
Buckhurst Hill is a leafy, vibrant area adjacent to Woodford Green, home to several inviting green spaces. Donkey Green, Stacey Gardens, and Village Green are small but well-loved community spots ideal for relaxing and socialising, while Buckhurst Hill Pond provides a picturesque setting for wildlife watching and peaceful walks.
The area also offers direct access to the ancient woodlands of Knighton Wood and Lords Bushes within Epping Forest, featuring accessible trails, Knighton Lake, and abundant wildlife—perfect for nature lovers and families.
Wanstead Park
Wanstead Park is a historic landscape of national importance, located just south of Woodford Green. The park boasts expansive ornamental lakes, mature woodland, and open meadows, making it a favourite for walkers, picnics, and wildlife enthusiasts.
The Temple, a surviving structure from the grand Wanstead House, now serves as a visitor centre and adds a touch of historical charm to the park’s already picturesque environment.
Woodford Bridge
Woodford Bridge, situated to the east of Woodford Green, is bordered by the River Roding and offers several attractive green spaces. Riverside walks along the river provide tranquil settings for exercise and relaxation, while local greens and playgrounds serve as hubs for family outings and outdoor play.
These areas are well-maintained and provide a welcoming atmosphere for both residents and visitors.
Highams Park
Highams Park is a 28-acre public park located just east of Highams Park Lake, with multiple entrances for easy access. The park features Humphry’s Café for refreshments, playgrounds suitable for children of all ages (including a zip wire), and wooden sculptures that add artistic flair to the landscape.
Wildflower meadows attract pollinators, and the centrepiece is Repton’s Lake, designed by renowned landscape architect Humphry Repton. Highams Park also hosts a variety of festivals and events, making it a lively community hub throughout the year.
Ray Park
Ray Park is a large, mature park situated in Woodford and South Woodford, offering extensive green space for dog walking, family outings, and sports. Its well-maintained paths and open areas are popular with joggers, cyclists, and families looking for a relaxing day out.
The park’s natural beauty and accessibility make it a popular spot for both recreation and community events.
Family-friendly activities and community events
Woodford Green is a family-friendly area with a strong sense of community, offering a diverse range of activities and events throughout the year. Woodford Wells offers fun outings for children and families.
- Owls Play Centre: A popular indoor play venue for children up to age 12, offering adventurous play and party packages.
- Fairlop Outdoor Activity Centre: Provides water-based activities such as canoeing and sailing, with sessions available for all ages and abilities.
The local area is known for its welcoming community and family-friendly atmosphere. Community events are a highlight, with regular litter picks, quiz nights, and repair cafes organised by the Woodford Green Amenity Group and other local organisations.
These events foster a sense of belonging and encourage residents of all ages to get involved. Healthy Redbridge Bus visits provide free health checks, while Cuppa with a Copper sessions offer opportunities to meet local police and discuss community safety.
Seasonal festivals, concerts, and open days at local venues such as All Saints Church and Woodford Fire Station bring the community together for fun and celebration. The area also hosts regular choral evensong and exhibitions celebrating local history and culture.
Arts, culture, and historical sites
Woodford Green is rich in arts and cultural offerings, with several venues and societies dedicated to fostering creativity and heritage.
- The Arts Society Woodford Green: Meets monthly at Bancroft’s School, offering talks, outings, and holidays focused on art history and local culture. The society also supports local schools and community projects.
- Redbridge Drama Centre: Ahub for theatre, offering performances, workshops, and courses for all ages. The centre hosts a variety of shows, from comedy nights to children’s theatre, and has adapted to include a gym and library facilities during renovations at South Woodford Library & Gym.
- Hurst House (also known as the Naked Beauty): one of the oldest surviving buildings in the area
- Harts House: A Regency mansion with a rich botanical heritage.
Woodford Green’s conservation area status ensures the preservation of its unique character and architectural features. Look out for blue plaques commemorating notable former residents like Winston Churchill.
Transport and accessibility
Woodford Green is exceptionally well-connected, making it a convenient base for commuters and families. Woodford Green is convenient for exploring nearby towns like Chigwell and Hornchurch.
The Central line provides direct links to Liverpool Street and the City of London, with frequent services and late-night trains for evening travel. The station is a key hub for local bus routes, including the 179, 20, W13, N55, and 657, ensuring easy access to nearby areas and amenities.
For those with accessibility needs, step-free access is available at many nearby stations, and improvements are ongoing across the London Underground network.
The area’s bus stops are designed for accessibility, with ramps and clear signage for people with mobility challenges.
Road connections are also strong, with easy access to the North Circular and major motorways, making travel by car straightforward.
Crime rates and safety
Woodford Green is considered one of the safer suburbs in London, with a reputation for low crime rates and a vigilant, friendly community.
According to recent data, the annual total crime rate in the vicinity of Woodford Underground Station is 77.6 crimes per 1,000 people, which is lower than the average for similar areas in England and Wales.
The most common types of crime are minor, such as theft and anti-social behaviour, with serious violent crime being rare.
Local policing is proactive, with regular community engagement events such as Cuppa with a Copper, where residents can meet officers and discuss safety concerns. Well-lit streets, active neighbourhood watch schemes, and community involvement all contribute to a secure and peaceful environment.
Tips for staying safe include being aware of your surroundings, using main routes after dark, and participating in local safety initiatives.
The combination of low crime rates and strong community spirit makes Woodford Green an attractive and reassuring place to live.
Conclusion
Woodford Green stands out as a welcoming, well-connected community where green spaces, quality schools, and vibrant local life come together to create a highly desirable place to live.
Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly environment, easy access to the city, or a strong sense of belonging, this area offers a dynamic setting for both everyday life and special moments.
HOLD Self Storage: Coming to Woodford Green in 2026
HOLD Self Storage is opening soon near Woodford Green, bringing secure, flexible, and accessible storage even closer to you.
Whether you're decluttering, relocating, running a business, or studying nearby, our new facility will offer 24/7 access, a variety of unit sizes, climate-secured options, and flexible terms for students.
In the meantime, our North London facility is ready to support your storage needs with the same great features.
Get a quote in minutes, and get a guaranteed price match.
Frequently asked questions
What makes Woodford Green a great place to live?
Woodford Green is known for its green spaces, excellent schools, and strong community spirit. Its transport links and family-friendly atmosphere make it a top choice for many.
How do I get to Woodford Green from central London?
The Central line provides direct access from central London to Woodford Green, making commuting quick and easy.
What are the best things to do in Woodford Green?
Enjoy scenic walks in Buckhurst Hill, visit local parks, explore historic sites, and dine at popular restaurants.
How does HOLD Self Storage help residents moving to or living in Woodford Green?
HOLD Self Storage offers secure, flexible storage solutions for residents who need extra space during a move or for ongoing storage needs.
What storage options does HOLD provide for Woodford Green residents?
HOLD offers a range of storage unit sizes and 24-hour access, making it convenient for residents to store belongings securely.
