Of the many places stacked with character across Essex, a few including this one have been named as the best to live.
Muddy Stilettos, a lifestyle website recently released their 260 best places to live to live in the UK for 2026 and the best in each county.
There were eight places named across Essex, one of which was Bocking, near Braintree.
Full list of best places in Essex to live for 2026:
- Bocking
- Bradwell
- Buckhurst Hill
- Chelmsford
- Leigh
- Little Oakley
- Saffron Walden
- Stock
More about Bocking and why it makes the list
Bocking lies on the northern side of Braintree.
It was historically split into two parts, with the original settlement around the parish church becoming known as Bocking Churchstreet.
The other separate settlement called Bocking grew a little bit south along Bradford Street and The Causeway.
Muddy Stilettos said: "On the outskirts of Braintree, pretty Bocking has a village feel but with all the amenities of a town on its doorstop.
"Bradford Street, which runs between the two, is one of the oldest roads in Britain, originating in Roman times, and Bocking is steeped in history – walking through its colourful 17th and 18th century listed buildings is a delight.
"There are good schools close by and great food and culture are in easy reach."
Where to eat in the village
Nearby shops
Culture
The culture section states: "Bocking Windmill, built in 1721, is no longer working, but is lovely to look at and packed with history, plus you can spend a fascinating afternoon among the artefacts.
"For music, celeb talks, plays and drag bingo – it’s so much fun with 90 mins of Prosecco or beer – check out the amazing Grade II listed theatre, The Institute.
"Braintree Museum has regular events and exhibitions: right now you can see Extinction: From Dinosaurs To Today, with Art Deco and Beyond next on the list from Jan to June 2026."
Average house prices
The average house price is £342,873, with the majority of properties sold semi-detached, which sell for an average £346,277.
Terraced properties sell for £278,537, with detached fetching £558,932.
To find out more about why Bocking makes up the top places to live, visit Bocking | Muddy Stilettos Essex | Muddy Stilettos
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