Inside Gemma Collins' quiet life in quaint Essex village where homes fetch £500k
Gemma Collins, famed for her time on The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE), is one of the UK's most recognisable faces, thanks to her larger-than-life personality and memorable catchphrases.
However, the former TOWIE star enjoys a peaceful life in a desirable Essex village, living out her countryside dream in a converted barn fit for diva royalty.
Known affectionately as 'The GC' by her fans, the 43-year-old TV personality announced her engagement to long-term partner Rami Hawarsh earlier this year, following a romantic proposal in the Maldives.
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Previously residing in the Essex town of Brentwood, where she ran a successful plus-size clothing business, Gemma relocated to the village of Roxwell in Chelmsford shortly after the pandemic.
Her five-bedroom converted barn home, set on an acre of land with extensive gardens, is often featured in photos shared by the star on social media. She even introduced her followers to her faux horse named Tallulah, reports the Express.
Her fondness for oversized animals doesn't stop there, with a nine-foot giraffe gracing her living room and two wooden elephants adding character to her garden, originally from London's Green Park.
In addition to the giant ornaments adorning her home, Gemma also has real-life cats, dogs and chickens to keep her company in her country abode.
Home to a flock of chickens named Gucci, Fendi, Chanel, Dolce and Gabbana, Gemma referred to them as being "very special animals."
In a heartfelt chat with OK! magazine, Gemma Collins shared her deep affection for nature.
"I'm so happy when I'm in my garden. I've got chickens, lots of plants and growing vegetables. It ignites such a passion and fire inside of me for all things nature," she expressed.
As someone who adores the natural world, Gemma is perfectly placed in the tranquil Essex village of Roxwell. Situated just four miles west of Chelmsford, this charming hamlet is home to approximately 1000 people.
With its strong community vibe, Gemma has the chance to immerse herself in various local activities, whether it's events at the Memorial Hall or attending services at the historic St. Michael and All Angels Church.
Although The Chequers Pub sadly shut down three years ago, residents are actively campaigning for its return. Meanwhile, the Inspire Cafe offers refreshments within the church and the Howe and Co Fish and Chip Van is a regular fixture in the village.
A brief drive away lies the larger village of Writtle, where the GC can enjoy the Horse and Groom's five-star menu or the Rose and Crown by the idyllic village green.
For those times when a shopping spree calls or a trip to London beckons, Chelmsford city centre, with its array of shops and a station with trains to London Liverpool Street, ensures Gemma is never too far from the hustle and bustle.
Over the past decade, house prices in the area have seen a significant increase, with many commuters relocating from London to towns and cities such as Brentwood, Ingatestone and Chelmsford in search of a better quality of life.
Zoopla reports that the average house price in Roxwell is currently £512,143. Given the abundance of larger country homes, farmsteads and historical properties in the area, prospective buyers would likely need to pay significantly more to stand a chance of becoming Gemma's neighbour.