Overview
Identified as a metropolitan centre in the London Plan, Ilford's commercial and retail hub is surrounded by extensive residential development. The town sits on the transport corridor between London and coastal Essex—with the A12 and central railway station linking the regions. Recent immigration has transformed Ilford into one of the most multicultural towns in England.
A Brief History of Ilford
Back in the 17th century, Ilford was a quaint rural village nestled along the River Roding and the London to Colchester Road. By the early 19th century, its population had grown to over 3,000 spread across 8,000 acres.
One of Ilford’s most intriguing discoveries is the complete skull of a mammoth, unearthed in 1860 on High Road and now proudly displayed at the Natural History Museum. The mid-19th century introduction of the local railway fuelled rapid expansion, cementing Ilford’s status as a coaching town.
By the early 20th century, Victorian and Edwardian estates flourished—many of which still stand in Ilford and surrounding areas like Barkingside. The Hainault Loop railway (1903) further improved transport links, supporting London’s booming population.
Fast forward to modern times, and Ilford was ranked the fastest-growing tourist destination in Europe by TripAdvisor in 2011. By 2015, its population surged to 297,000.
Ilford Today
Ilford is now one of the largest and fastest-developing towns in North-East London. It blends urban convenience with green spaces—45% of Barkingside’s 46 million square meters are dedicated to parks and open areas. Valentine’s Park, an award-winning attraction, is often considered one of Britain’s best parks.
For sports enthusiasts, the Redbridge Sports Centre offers top-tier facilities including a gym, tennis courts, badminton, table tennis, and even a dance hall that served as a training venue for the 2012 Olympics. Mayfield Leisure Centre also provides excellent swimming facilities for all ages.
Living in Ilford
Top-Rated Schools
Ilford boasts a strong education sector with many schools rated “Outstanding” and “Good” by Ofsted. Students consistently excel in reading, writing, and mathematics. Some of the top schools include:
- Seven Kings School (IG2 6AU) – Known for quality education and development programs.
- Valentines High School (IG2 6HX) – A comprehensive school offering GCSEs and A-levels with an inclusive approach.
- Oaks Park School (IG2 7PQ) – Opened in September 2001.
- Ark Isaac Newton Academy (IG1 1FY) – An all-through school fostering academic excellence and character development.
Food & Dining: Ilford’s Culinary Scene
Ilford’s diverse community is reflected in its vibrant food scene—from casual eateries to fine dining, the town offers a rich culinary experience that caters to all tastes.
A Cultural and Artistic Hub
Ilford has a rich cultural scene featuring Grade II-listed Victorian homes and the renowned Kenneth More Theatre, hosting Shakespearean plays and family-friendly performances. The Central Library houses the revamped Redbridge Museum, showcasing Ilford’s history from the Ice Age to modern times with a recent £100,000 investment.
Transport & Connectivity
Ilford enjoys excellent transport links. The new Elizabeth Line dramatically reduces travel times to major London locations such as Heathrow and Paddington. This development is part of a broader regeneration strategy aiming to create 6,000 new homes and 3,000 jobs by 2030, further enhancing Ilford’s appeal.
The town is also well-connected via major motorways and dedicated cycle routes, making commuting convenient for residents.
Ilford’s Property Market
Buying Property in Ilford
According to Rightmove, the average property value in Ilford rose to £487,503 in 2024. The most common property types include:
- Terraced houses – Average price of £516,398
- Semi-detached houses – Average price of £593,894
- Flats – Average price of £243,141
Renting in Ilford
Rental prices have also increased, with the average rent now at £1,870 per month. Typical costs include:
- 1-bedroom apartments – Approximately £1,429 per calendar month
- 4-bedroom houses – Approximately £3,019 per calendar month
With ongoing investments and regeneration projects, demand from buyers and tenants continues to rise, making Ilford a prime location for homeowners and investors alike.
Final Thoughts
Ilford offers a unique blend of affordability, excellent amenities, and strong community ties. Whether you’re looking to buy, rent, or invest, Ilford presents a compelling choice with its thriving economy, outstanding schools, and easy access to London.
Could Ilford be your next home? Our expert agents are here to help you explore the area and find the perfect property to suit your needs.
