With a population of just over 100,000, Chelmsford is a self-contained city, but its picturesque architecture will have you feeling like you’re in a period drama. The city is the real hub of the county, there are endless restaurants, bars and pubs to keep you entertained, and with Essex’s ‘Sunshine Coast’ within easy reach and central London accessible by rail within 40 minutes, there’s plenty to explore on your doorstep.
Another plus is that house prices are significantly lower than in nearby London, so finding a Chelmsford house for sale within your budget may be easier than you think.
Cala’s development at Beaulieu is a community in its own right; including local shops, a dentist, vets, coffee shop, food outlets, health services, a day nursery, education and community centres. There are 106 private homes on the development offering a choice of 42 one and two bedroom apartments and 64 three and four bedroom homes, ranging in size from 547 sq. ft to 2,317 sq. ft.
Its location makes it ideal for those starting out on the property ladder, or looking for great schools and a greener environment for a growing family, or searching for the ideal base for commuting.
That’s why we've pulled together our top five reasons why Chelmsford should be at the top of your next move list:
1. Rail journeys
In addition to the existing Chelmsford railway station, which connects the area to London in only 35 minutes, the vibrant new district of Beaulieu will have a train station of its own. Expected to open in 2025/26, Beaulieu Park Station will be the first to be built on the Great Eastern main line for over 100 years, connecting homeowners with London in just 40 minutes.
2. It’s fit for a king!
Our new homes at Cala at Beaulieu are situated on land which was once part of the grand New Hall estate. Lived in by several royals, the stately home was bought and re-named the Palace of Beaulieu, meaning “beautiful place” in French, by Henry VIII, when he was 25.
The Palace of Beaulieu is now home to New Hall School, an independent boarding school for boys and girls.
3. City status
Chelmsford is the first city in Essex. Following the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, Chelmsford was awarded city status. Though it was only made official in 2012, Chelmsford has been the centre of Essex’s ‘official business’ for centuries, and even became the capital of England for a week in 1381!
Nowadays, Chelmsford has a population of over 100,000 and is the central hub for the whole county, with a beautiful cathedral as well.
With a whole host of local cafés and restaurants, such as the popular Vita Bella for Italian lovers, and a 15-minute drive to NOKA, a sushi restaurant so good it was featured in the Michelin Guide, you won’t have to go far to get top quality food.
4. Less strife, live a seaside life
Should you tire of the beautiful countryside surrounding Chelmsford, the popular seaside resort of Southend-on-Sea is only a 45-minute drive away. In fact, the whole of Essex’s Sunshine Coast is right on your doorstep, with popular beaches like Clacton-on-Sea accessible by a 50-minute train which runs every 30 minutes.
5. Nightlife
Whether it’s the bright lights of Chelmsford’s Popworld calling your name, the good old-fashioned Golden Fleece pub or All Bar One for a selection of cocktails, Essex’s first city has a night out to suit every taste. Those with a more artisanal streak will enjoy the Bottle Bureau on New Street with its selection of 185 craft gins and occasional live music.
Home are well underway at Beaulieu, with prices for a three bedroom house starting from £599,950, and four bedroom houses from £664,950.
One & two bedroom apartments have just been released, with prices starting from £314,950.
If you’re feeling inspired to add Chelmsford to your next relocation, please visit our Beaulieu development page.
