Harlow is a well-connected Essex town offering a unique mix of affordable housing, abundant green spaces, and modern amenities—perfect for London movers seeking more space without sacrificing commute convenience. Designed as a post-war New Town, it blends historic charm in areas like Old Harlow with contemporary living in developments like Newhall, all surrounded by parks, sculpture trails, and strong community infrastructure.
Location
Harlow sits in west Essex – about 38 km north of London and 50 km south of Cambridge – with strong transport links via the M11 and A10.
Transport & Commuting
Harlow Town station delivers direct trains to London Liverpool Street in around 30 minutes, with multiple services per hour as well as trains direct to Stansted Airport and Cambridge City centre.
Harlow Mill station is on the same line and offers similar times with slight variations depending on service schedules.
By Road Harlow offers excellent connectivity with the M11, A414, and the M25 making it ideal for commuters driving to London, Cambridge, Stansted, or other regional hubs.
There are many local bus routes connecting to Harlow town centre for wider amenities.
Schools & Community
Harlow offers a strong educational landscape, with most primary schools rated “Good” by Ofsted and Burnt Mill Academy recognised as “Outstanding” among state secondaries. For private education, Saint Nicholas School in Old Harlow provides independent schooling and nursery care for children aged 0 to 16.
A strong community spirit is supported by a range of local clubs, events, and leisure facilities.
Local Amenities & Daily Conveniences
The Water Gardens is a pleasant retail complex with an Asda, fashion stores (H&M, River Island) and eateries, set around water features. The Harvey Centre is an indoor shopping centre with approx. 60 shops and entertainment including cinema and mini golf, plus fitness facilities.
Dotted throughout the town are small shopping precincts such as The Stow, Staple Tye, Potter Street and Bush Fair which have their own collections of convenience stores, doctors surgeries, pharmacies, dentists, pubs and restaurants.
Green Spaces & Recreation
Harlow Town Park is proudly one of Britain’s largest urban parks, featuring themed gardens, Pets’ Corner, a skate park, outdoor gym, bandstand, paddling pool, and café. The park hosts popular events like fireworks, Parkrun and outdoor concerts.
Harlow Town Centre also benefits from a variety of culture including the Gibberd Gallery
Watercolour and sculpture collection in The Civic Centre and Harlow Playhouse, a community-focused venue offering comedy, theatre, dance, and children’s productions.
There are several gyms and leisure facilities within the town including Harlow Leisurezone and a new multi-million-pound David Lloyd club both with gyms, pools, health spas and much more. Throughout the town there are many sports clubs including football, cricket, rugby, and more, plus extensive cycling routes. Scenic paths along River Stort and Lee Valley are great for walking, jogging, or cycling.