The Essex border area home to David Beckham and Alfred Hitchcock the 'best location for families'

An Essex border area that's home to David Beckham and Sir Alfred Hitchcock was once named the best place to live for families. Waltham Forest was named the UK's best place to raise a family by home security firm ADT.

The borough excelled in a study that considered school ratings, house prices, bus fares, and crime rates, including burglary statistics. The area boasts a top 15 position for the fewest burglaries, a seventh-place ranking for its schools, and is tied for sixth due to its plentiful green spaces.

Property prices also contributed to its high score. According to Rightmove, the average property price in Waltham Forest stands at £556K, which is quite a bit below the London average of £698K.

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The borough is proud to have produced celebrities such as David Beckham and director Alfred Hitchcock. For those who enjoy good food, Waltham Forest doesn't disappoint. SlowBurn London, a local eatery, has garnered an impressive 4.7 stars on Google reviews.

Their varied menu includes delectable options like Striata aubergine with San Marzano sauce, Bulgarian buffalo cheese, crispy garlic, and lovage, reports MyLondon.

A delighted diner commented: "Omg so now I know what it is all about! Went in for Sunday lunch, and the atmosphere is really chilled (and obviously different to normal restaurant but jean maker surroundings) but very relaxing and pleasant."

"All staff is friendly and very nice. And then the food! So somebody has been really taking time working out and playing around with flavours as every dish we try is tasty and different to what i have ever tried before."

However, other boroughs also made an appearance in the top 10 best places to raise kids. Havering, Bexley, Bromley, Hounslow and Hillingdon, were all listed as ideal locations for families.

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