Living in Dunmow

The sense of community in Dunmow is apparent through its array of annual events, local groups, and traditions rooted in centuries of town life. The Flitch Trials are at the heart of local identity, drawing visitors to see couples compete for a side of bacon—a quirky tradition unique to Dunmow.

The town hosts weekly markets, summer fetes, and seasonal festivals, which create natural meeting points for residents. There is an active local history society, as well as clubs for sports, gardening, arts, and crafts. Community centres and the Queen Victoria Hall serve as venues for workshops, theatre, and social clubs.

Outdoor life is a real highlight, with riverside walks along the Chelmer, recreation grounds, parks, and easy access to the countryside. The Flitch Way, a converted railway line now a walking and cycling path, links Dunmow with Braintree and offers a green escape just minutes from the High Street.

Crime rates in Dunmow are generally lower than national averages, making it one of the more desirable Essex towns for those prioritising safety. The area is well-served by Essex Police, who maintain a community presence and contribute to a reassuring atmosphere throughout the town.

Like many rural towns, petty crime such as anti-social behaviour and vehicle crime can occasionally be reported, mainly in the busier town centre areas. However, incidents of violent crime are notably low. Neighbourhood Watch groups are active, helping to maintain a sense of vigilance in residential zones and neighbouring villages.

Recent efforts by the local council and police have focused on road safety, youth engagement, and managing night-time activity, particularly during special events like the Flitch Trials. Dunmow remains widely regarded as a safe and family-friendly place to live, with ongoing community safety initiatives.

Parking in Dunmow is generally convenient, especially compared to larger Essex towns. The town centre and High Street area offer a mix of short-stay and long-stay car parks, as well as on-street parking options, though these can become busier at peak times or during local events like the popular weekly market.

Many residential streets have permit schemes to ensure spaces for locals. Parking restrictions are clearly marked, and most amenities are within walking distance for central residents. The town is also well-connected by road, with the A120 bypass providing easy journeys to the M11 and A131.

Those commuting or travelling to nearby towns and cities benefit from good connections:

• Stansted – approx. 10 mins via A120 (6 miles)
• Braintree – approx. 20 mins via A120 (12 miles)
• Chelmsford – approx. 25 mins via B1008 (15 miles)
• Cambridge – approx. 40 mins via M11 (35 miles)
• London – approx. 60 mins via M11 (40 miles)

Congestion is largely limited to school drop-off and pick-up times or during major events, and road access into/out of Dunmow is rarely a significant issue outside those periods.

Dunmow’s food scene is rooted in traditional English fare, complemented by international flavours. The town’s pubs, like The Flitch House and The Saracens Head, are renowned for their historic settings and welcoming atmospheres. Contemporary cafés and bistros on the High Street serve artisan coffee, pastries, and locally sourced meals.

There are popular family-friendly restaurants and takeaways, representing Italian, Indian, Chinese, and British cuisines. On the outskirts, country pubs offer Sunday roasts and outdoor dining during warmer months.

Nightlife in Dunmow is relaxed and community-focused, with occasional live music at pubs and small events rather than clubs or large bars. For a wider choice of venues, residents often travel to Chelmsford or Bishop’s Stortford.

The annual events and food markets also help create a lively—but not rowdy—atmosphere, especially during town festivities or Christmas markets.

Dunmow is widely considered a family-friendly location, with much to recommend for those raising children. The area’s schools enjoy strong reputations, providing parents with peace of mind about educational standards. Childcare provision through nurseries and after-school clubs is also good, catering to the needs of working families.

The abundance of parks, playgrounds, and safe cycle/walking routes—such as the Flitch Way—means children have plenty of outdoor space to explore. The area’s low crime rates and quiet streets further enhance its reputation among families seeking a secure environment.

A variety of clubs, sports for all ages, and open countryside enrich the lifestyle for young people and parents alike, with regular community events helping families form connections and create lasting memories in Dunmow.

Pet-friendly living is a notable feature in Dunmow, with open countryside, riverside paths, and green spaces for daily walks and outdoor recreation. The Flitch Way, in particular, is popular with dog walkers, offering a lengthy and safe route from the town centre out into rural Essex.

A number of reputable vets, pet supply stores, and grooming salons are present in and around the town. Many local pubs and cafés are welcoming to dogs, especially those with outdoor seating. Housing providers in Dunmow tend to be receptive to responsible pet ownership, and the low population density means animal lovers have plenty of space for their pets to thrive.

Pet-focused community groups, dog training classes, and the generally considerate local attitude towards animals make Dunmow somewhere pets—and their owners—can live comfortably.

Dunmow's location ensures reasonable access to national and regional transport options despite its rural character. The town does not have its own railway station, but Stansted Airport railway station is around 8 miles away, providing regular direct services to London Liverpool Street, Cambridge, and beyond.

Frequent local buses connect Dunmow to Chelmsford, Braintree, Bishop’s Stortford, and Stansted Airport. Several services also link local villages to the town’s amenities.

For road users, the A120 bypass skirts the south of town, providing swift access to the M11 motorway and Stansted Airport. The M11 places both London and Cambridge within easy reach for commuters or leisure travel.

Key commute and travel times from Dunmow include:

• London Liverpool Street (via Stansted Airport station): approx 50 mins by train.
• Stansted Airport: approx 15 mins by car/bus.
• Chelmsford: approx 25 mins by car; bus routes also available.
• Braintree: approx 20 mins by car or local bus.
• Cambridge: approx 40 mins by car, or via train from Stansted Airport.

Families will find a selection of well-regarded primary and secondary schools in Dunmow and the surrounding area, making it an attractive choice for those prioritising education.

1. Great Dunmow Primary School (Ofsted: Good, 2013) – Centrally located and known for its nurturing environment.
2. Flitch Green Academy (Ofsted: Outstanding, 2012) – Located in the Flitch Green development with strong community ethos.
3. Felsted Primary School (Ofsted: Good, 2021) – Situated a short drive away in the village of Felsted.
4. Takeley Primary School (Ofsted: Good, 2023) – Just outside Dunmow, providing another popular option for local families.

1. The Helena Romanes School (Ofsted: Good, 2022) – Dunmow’s main secondary, with a sixth form and strong links to the community.
2. Saffron Walden County High School (Ofsted: Outstanding, 2012) – Though outside of Dunmow, this school attracts pupils from Dunmow due to its reputation.
3. Felsted School (Independent, all ages) – Renowned local boarding and day school with a national profile.

1. Helena Romanes Sixth Form – Offers a variety of A-levels and vocational courses.
2. Saffron Walden County High School Sixth Form – Highly regarded and accessible to Dunmow families.
3. Braintree Sixth Form – Accessible via road, offering a wide curriculum.

There are no universities in Dunmow itself. However, Anglia Ruskin University in Chelmsford is the closest, being less than a 30-minute drive away.