Stock – the Essex village only 40 minutes from Romford

Stock is a village and civil parish in Chelmsford and according to Google Maps, only a 40-minute drive from Romford town centre.

In December last year, lifestyle blog Muddy Stilettos judged Stock to be one of the best places to live in 2025.

Describing the village as “pretty special”, Muddy Stilettos singled out its “gorgeous” gastro pubs, nearby schools and even a 19th century brick windmill as stand-out aspects.

Amongst Stock’s boozers is The Hoop – an award-winning gastro pub in a “traditional setting” according to its website.

The Hoop has a 4.6 average rating on Google (Image: Google) The Hoop in High Street has a 4.6 Google rating and features an enclosed beer garden equipped with an artisan pizza oven which is used on Friday evenings in the summer months.

Dating back to the 15th century, The Harvard Inn, also in High Street, offers a “sophisticated” restaurant and wine bar and describes itself as a “central part of the village history” and “full of charming character”.

The Bear and The Bakers Arms are also watering hole options with a 4.5 and 4.4 average Google rating respectively

Stock is also home to a multi-award-winning florist – Stock Florist – and a multi-award winning hairdresser – Edward Taylor Hair.

The Harvard Inn dates back to the 15th century (Image: Google) As well as its range of amenities, property researchers Area Hive highlighted Stock’s natural scenery as a focus point.

It said: “If you love the great outdoors, Stock won’t disappoint.

“The village is surrounded by beautiful countryside, perfect for long walks and scenic bike rides.

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“Swan Wood is a local gem, offering serene bamboo groves and lovely walking trails and there are also several parks and green spaces where you can unwind or enjoy a family picnic.”

The Woodland Trust described Swan Wood as a place where “old blends nicely with new”.

Area Hive described Swan Wood as a ‘local gem’ (Image: Google) It is an ancient site with both a “distinctive and delightful” character.

Visitors can see the restored old pond home to all three species of newts and some may be able to spot dormice badgers or bats.

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Muddy Stilettos labelled Stock Windmill as the village’s “best kept secret”.

This is a five-storey grade II listed mill, built around 1804, restored and now complete with several floors of machinery.

“Well worth a peek,” said the lifestyle blog.

Stock Windmill was believed to be built around 1804 (Image: Google) For those who value religion or reflection, Stock is equipped with three churches: The Church of England Parish Church of All Saints’, The Catholic Church of Our Lady and The St. Joseph and Christ Church.

Stock Primary School was rated ‘good’ by Ofsted in 2022 whilst other nearby schools include St John’s School, Brentwood School and New Hall School.

The last two were described as some of the “most well-regarded and high-achieving Essex indie schools” by Muddy Stilettos.

According to Right Move, house prices in Stock have an overall average of £911,192 over the last year.

The majority of properties sold in Stock during the last year were detached properties, selling for an average price of £1,185,667.

Semi-detached properties sold for an average of £631,000, and terraced properties fetched £493,750.