If stunning sea views and picturesque streets weren't enough, this charming fishing town was recently crowned the UK's happiest place to live
Having recently topped Rightmove’s Happy at Home survey, we thought it was time to shine the spotlight on some of Leigh-on-Sea’s fabulous properties.
It’s the second time the Essex coastal town has been awarded the accolade in the last three years, recognising the seaside spot as the UK's happiest location to live. And with gorgeous waterside vistas, friendly locals and an exciting mix of properties, it’s easy to see why.
Residents here seem to put down roots in the area rather than investing and selling on, so perhaps that's why it's such a welcoming, friendly community.
Located a couple of miles from Southend-on-Sea, this fine old fishing town is still packed with trawlers catching and selling fresh seafood – check out the cockles for sale on the seafront!
It also promises plenty of picturesque little streets, timber-frame houses, seafood eateries and a great selection of local pubs. Plenty of homes here boast stunning views over the water and once you’ve thrown in the easy commute to London (around 50 minutes), it’s no wonder that this is such a happy place to live.
Houses cost an average of £380,477 here, with some great luxury options available for those wanting to spend more. Check out some of our favourite homes on the market right now in Leigh-on-Sea…
2-bed flat, Stuart Court, Sydney Road, £239,995
A beautifully decorated two-bedroom flat on the first floor, this is an exciting home for someone looking to take their first step onto the property ladder.
Located just off of London Road, it’s within easy walking distance of the station, making it ideal for those working in the city.
Two large double bedrooms are on offer, as well as an ample-sized lounge and kitchen.
Residents benefit from off-street parking, a private garage and a communal garden area.
On the market for £239,995 with Bear Estate Agents.
3-bed house, Southsea Avenue, £495,000
We just love all the cute period characteristics of this home – from the rustic wooden floors and the picture rails to that divine ornate coving and feature fireplace in the dining room.
Accommodation includes three double bedrooms and a bathroom, family kitchen and breakfast room, as well as a beautiful lounge that’s flooded with natural light.
The location is pretty great here too, being within yards of Leigh Broadway and the Old Town, plus just half a mile from the station.
Outside there’s a large garden that’s perfect for entertaining and a patio area that lends itself to alfresco dining in the warmer months.
On the market for £495,000 with Coulson James.
4-bedroom house, Mountdale Gardens, £725,000
The beating heart of this glamorous home is the open-plan kitchen and living area.
The family hub comprises a lounge area, kid’s playroom, dining table area and a spectacular kitchen with a snazzy breakfast bar and bifold doors to the rear garden. A further lounge is also located on this level, ideal for grown-ups to relax and unwind in.
Perfect for those with young children, this smart, modern home has spacious accommodation and a sunny south-facing rear garden with plenty of patio space for summer gatherings as well as a good grassy area for the kids to play and even a summerhouse.
Upstairs, the master bedroom is served by a dressing room and an ensuite shower, while the further three bedrooms share a Jack-and-Jill-style shower room and a family bathroom.
A superb home with every modern convenience (we’re talking hot water taps, underfloor heating and downlights with automatic sensors), you could move straight in without needing to do a thing. Where do we sign?
On Rightmove for £725,000.
4-bed house, Mount Avenue, £850,000
If you like a home with a few quirky characteristics then check out this fascinating four-bed home on the sought-after Chalkwell Hall Estate.
Enter through an impressive entrance hall, with herringbone wood floor that continues to the dining room.
This spacious room will easily fit the largest of dining room tables – ideal for any keen hosts out there. Here, you'll also find a curved seat in the bay window, next to the feature fireplace.
Over in the lounge is a unique inglenook seating area by the fire. We couldn’t imagine a cosier spot to curl up in the winter with a steaming cup of cocoa.
The kitchen is a more modern affair, with built-in appliances and doors to the garden. Upstairs, the first floor is home to four sizeable bedrooms, as well as a family bathroom.
Outside a mature garden can be found with a raised patio area and plenty of potential.
On Zoopla for £850,000.
3-bed apartment, Rectory Grove, £1,395,000
Offering a seriously slick sun terrace with stunning views over the water, as well as access to a roof garden, this fabulous fifth-floor apartment epitomises the high life.
The stunning open-plan living space includes kitchen, lounge and dining areas, while the floor-to-ceiling windows drench the apartment in beautiful sunlight.
Elsewhere are three double bedrooms (two of which have ensuite facilities and their own balconies), a study, utility room and a luxury shower room.
Living in such a prestigious block has its perks of course – you can expect secure underground parking, a concierge service and access to the high tech gym and communal garden.
As you might expect, every fixture and fitting has been finished to an impressive quality down to the last detail. Basically, we want to live here.
On the market for £1,395,000 with Essex Countryside.
Still craving a move to the coast? Check out these wonderful seaside homes for sale in Weymouth.
Featured image: Nadinelle / Shutterstock