Mortgage Advice in Braintree: Property, Schools & Local Area Guide
Essex · CM7 · CM77 · Braintree District Council / Essex County Council
Mortgages in Braintree, Essex
Essex's historic market and textile town — where the Courtauld silk empire funded an entire civic infrastructure from 1818, Crittall steel windows were invented in 1884, and the Warner Textile Archive holds one of the UK's largest collections outside the V&A. Greater Anglia to London Liverpool Street in approximately one hour via Witham. No grammar schools — but Alec Hunter Academy rated Good. Braintree Village designer outlet on the branch line. Prices substantially below Chelmsford. We introduce you to a carefully selected, FCA-regulated whole-of-market adviser.
Braintree mortgage enquiry? We'll introduce you to a whole-of-market FCA-regulated adviser.
Getting to London from Braintree
Braintree is served by the Braintree Branch Line — a single-track rural branch that joins the Great Eastern Main Line at Witham, from where fast services continue to London Liverpool Street. The branch was opened in 1848 and is operated entirely by Greater Anglia. The journey from Braintree to Liverpool Street takes approximately one hour at its fastest, with approximately one direct service per hour on weekdays.
Braintree Station
Operator: Greater Anglia. Branch: Braintree Branch Line (1848). Fastest journey to London Liverpool Street: approximately 58–65 minutes. Frequency: approximately 1 train per hour on weekdays (~20 services per day in each direction). The branch leg from Braintree to Witham takes approximately 16 minutes — at Witham the service joins the Great Eastern Main Line fast services to Liverpool Street. Witham itself is a faster commuter station (~50 min to Liverpool Street), and some Braintree buyers who drive or cycle to Witham use this instead of the branch.
Braintree Freeport Station
Braintree Freeport station is the first stop from Braintree on the branch line towards Witham, adjacent to Braintree Village (formerly Freeport Braintree) — the designer outlet shopping complex operated by Landsec (~250,000 sq ft, 85+ stores including Coach, Ralph Lauren, BOSS, M&S Outlet, Nike, and Adidas). Note: the station is still called Braintree Freeport while the shopping complex itself rebranded to Braintree Village. This station is primarily used by shoppers rather than commuters but adds frequency to the branch.
Road — A120 and A131
A120 dual carriageway bypasses Braintree to the south — opened in 2004, replacing the old A120 through the town centre (renumbered B1256). The A120 links Braintree directly westward to Stansted Airport (approximately 18 miles) and the M11 (Junction 8a); eastward it continues toward Colchester and the A12. A131 connects Braintree southward to Chelmsford (approximately 10 miles) and northward to Halstead and Sudbury. A12 is accessible at Witham/Kelvedon, approximately 6 miles south-east. Stansted Airport is approximately 25–30 minutes by car in non-peak traffic.
Braintree's Remarkable Heritage
Braintree is an ancient market town (market charter centuries old) whose identity was fundamentally shaped by three industries: silk, steel windows, and designer fashion retail. Its heritage is unusually specific for a small Essex town.
Courtauld Silk and the Town's Public Buildings
The Courtauld family began silk manufacturing in Braintree from 1818 when George Courtauld established a silk-throwing business. In 1825 the family began producing crêpe (crimped silk gauze), which became internationally famous under the Courtauld name — used for mourning dress throughout the Victorian era and worn across Europe. The wealth generated by the silk industry funded a large part of Braintree's civic infrastructure: the Town Hall, the William Julien Courtauld Hospital, Manor Street School (now home to Braintree Museum), and the public gardens opened in 1888. The Courtauld Institute of Art in London (part of the University of London) was also funded by Samuel Courtauld and is named in the family's honour.
Crittall Windows and Silver End
Francis Henry Crittall (1860–1935) began manufacturing steel-framed windows in Braintree in 1884. By 1918 the workforce had grown from 11 men to 500. Crittall windows are the distinctive black steel-framed glazing found in Art Deco and Modernist buildings throughout Britain and exported globally. The company built the model workers' village of Silver End (1926–1932), 5 miles south-east of Braintree — with its own department store, cinema, dance hall, and library for employees — a nationally significant example of industrial paternalism. Crittall Windows Ltd still manufactures in Braintree. The Silver End village is now a Conservation Area with listed buildings.
Warner Textile Archive and John Ray
Warner & Sons, a major London luxury textile manufacturer, moved to Braintree in 1895. The Warner Textile Archive (Silks Way, Braintree, CM7) now holds approximately 100,000 items — the UK's second-largest publicly-owned textile collection after the V&A — covering fabric, design drawings, and commercial records from the 17th century to the present. Managed by Braintree District Museum Trust. John Ray (1627–1705), the Father of Natural History, was born in nearby Black Notley, just south of Braintree. Ray coined the botanical terms petal and pollen, first defined the modern concept of a species, and discovered that tree age could be determined from annual rings — his work predates and influenced Linnaeus's taxonomic system.
Notable People Connected to Braintree
The Prodigy
The Prodigy — one of the most successful electronic music acts in UK history — formed in Braintree in the early 1990s. Liam Howlett, the group's founder and producer, attended Alec Hunter High School in Braintree. Their 1992 debut album Experience established the group internationally; Music for the Jilted Generation (1994) reached No. 1 in the UK; The Fat of the Land (1997) debuted at No. 1 in 22 countries. The Prodigy put Braintree on the cultural map in a way few small Essex towns have managed. Keith Flint (vocalist) died in 2019; the group has continued since.
Olly Murs
Olly Murs was born in Witham (adjacent to Braintree District) in 1984 and attended Notley High School in Braintree. He was the runner-up on The X Factor (2009) and has since had multiple UK No. 1 albums including In Case You Didn't Know, Right Place Right Time, and Never Been Better. He has sold over 11 million albums globally. His connection to Notley High School — currently rated Requires Improvement by Ofsted — is one of the more ironic local footnotes; it is worth noting when discussing the school's current performance.
John Ray (1627–1705) and Francis Henry Crittall (1860–1935)
John Ray, born in Black Notley near Braintree, is regarded as the Father of Natural History — the first to define the concept of a species in the modern botanical sense, and the coiner of the terms petal and pollen. His work was foundational to Linnaeus and the entire subsequent tradition of biological taxonomy. Francis Henry Crittall founded the steel window manufacturing enterprise in Braintree in 1884 that became globally synonymous with Modernist architecture and built the model workers' village of Silver End — making him one of the most consequential industrialist-philanthropists in Essex history. Both men left marks far beyond the town.
House Prices in Braintree 2025–26
Braintree's prices are among the more affordable in commuter Essex — driven by the longer train journey (~1 hour to Liverpool Street vs ~30 min for Chelmsford or Harlow) and the largely non-London-connected local economy. Great Notley (CM77) commands a premium over the Braintree town average.
| Property Type | Average Price | Source / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Overall average (ONS) | £325,000 | ONS / Land Registry (E07000067, Braintree District), Oct 2025 |
| Overall average (Rightmove) | £347,000 | Rightmove 12-month average, March 2026; includes all district sales |
| Detached | £446,000–£506,000 | Rightmove / GetAgent, early 2026 |
| Semi-detached | £332,000–£341,000 | Rightmove / ONS, 2025–26 |
| Terraced | £281,000–£287,000 | Rightmove / ONS, 2025–26 |
| Flat / maisonette | ~£146,000 | GetAgent aggregation; limited local flat stock — verify at gov.uk |
| Year-on-year change (overall) | +1.4% | ONS, year to October 2025; semi +2.7%; flats -1.9% |
| Great Notley (CM77) premium | +15–25% | Newer build, sought-after village feel; verify at Rightmove |
Note: these are Braintree District-wide figures (ONS area code E07000067) and include all transactions across the district (Witham, Halstead, Great Dunmow, Coggeshall etc.) as well as Braintree town. Braintree town prices may vary from the district average. Verify specific addresses at gov.uk/house-prices. Source: ONS, HM Land Registry, Crown Copyright, Open Government Licence v3.0.
What Does Buying in Braintree Actually Cost?
At Braintree's flat average of approximately £146,000, a first-time buyer pays zero stamp duty. At the terraced average of approximately £284,000, FTB relief also means zero stamp duty — Braintree is one of the few Essex commuter towns where the FTB average price stays below the £300,000 SDLT threshold.
| Purchase Price | SDLT (Standard) | SDLT (FTB) | Approx. Legal Fees | Survey |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| £146,000 (flat avg) | £420 | £0 | ~£1,300–£1,600 | ~£300–£450 |
| £284,000 (terraced avg) | £4,180 | £0 | ~£1,500–£1,900 | ~£450–£600 |
| £325,000 (overall avg) | £6,250 | £1,250 | ~£1,650–£2,050 | ~£550–£700 |
| £337,000 (semi avg) | £6,850 | £1,850 | ~£1,700–£2,100 | ~£550–£700 |
| £476,000 (detached avg) | £13,800 | £8,800 | ~£2,100–£2,600 | ~£700–£900 |
SDLT at April 2025 restored thresholds. FTB relief: 0% up to £300k; 5% £300k–£500k; no relief above £500k. 3% additional-dwelling surcharge for second homes/buy-to-let. Verify at gov.uk/stamp-duty-land-tax. Flat and terraced averages are illustrative — Braintree has very limited flat stock; verify specific property data before relying on these figures.
GP Surgeries in Braintree
Braintree's GP practices form the Braintree Primary Care Network (PCN) — a group of five practices serving approximately 59,000+ patients across the CM7 and CM77 postcode areas. Verify current NHS registration availability at nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp.
| Practice | Address | Phone | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blandford Medical Centre | Mace Avenue, Braintree, Essex, CM7 2AE | 01376 347100 | Main town practice; NHS code F81132; Braintree PCN |
| Blyth's Meadow Surgery | Trinovantian Way, Braintree, Essex, CM7 3JN | 01376 552508 | CM7; Braintree PCN |
| Mount Chambers Surgery | 92 Coggeshall Road, Braintree, Essex, CM7 9BY | 01376 553415 | Coggeshall Road area; CM7 9BY |
| Church Lane Surgery | Braintree College, Church Lane, Braintree, Essex, CM7 5SN | 01376 552474 | Braintree College campus; CM7 5SN; Braintree PCN |
| Great Notley Surgery | Notley Green, Great Notley, Braintree, Essex, CM77 7GS | 01376 341411 | Great Notley village; CM77; serves the CM77 development |
Verify acceptance of new patients at nhs.uk before registering. The Braintree PCN includes the five practices above. Braintree Community Hospital (Cressing Road, CM7 5EL; 0300 443 0103) also provides outpatient services within Braintree — it is managed by Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust. Braintree District Council address: Causeway House, Bocking End, Braintree, CM7 9HB; 01376 552525.
NHS Dentists in Braintree
Braintree has several NHS dental practices across the town — but as nationally, NHS dental capacity is under significant pressure. Always ring ahead to check current availability before visiting.
| Practice | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Braintree Dental Centre | 9c Coggeshall Road, Braintree, Essex, CM7 9DB | 01376 321061 |
| Horn Mews Dental Practice | 68a High Street, Braintree, Essex, CM7 1JP | 01376 552337 |
| Together Dental Braintree | St Michael's House, St Michael's Lane, Braintree, Essex, CM7 1EY | 01376 321789 |
| Oakmor Dental Centre | 8 Fairfield Road, Braintree, Essex, CM7 3HF | 01376 340001 |
| Braintree Dental Studio | 4 The Square, Notley Green, Great Notley, Braintree, Essex, CM77 7WW | 01376 569090 |
| Alba Dental Care | 92 Coggeshall Road, Braintree, Essex, CM7 9BY | 01376 334999 |
Verify NHS availability at nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-dentist before attending. Private dental options are available in Braintree town for patients unable to access NHS appointments. Great Notley residents may find Braintree Dental Studio (CM77 7WW) the most convenient local option.
Hospital & Healthcare Near Braintree
Broomfield Hospital — Nearest Full A&E (~10 miles south)
Address: Court Road, Broomfield, Chelmsford, Essex
Postcode: CM1 7ET
Phone: 01245 362000
NHS Trust: Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust
Emergency Department: Yes — full 24-hour A&E
Distance from Braintree: Approximately 10 miles south via the A131 (Chelmsford Road). Journey time approximately 20–25 minutes by car in normal traffic. Broomfield is the district general hospital for mid-Essex and the nearest full A&E for Braintree residents.
Braintree Community Hospital — Local Outpatient Services (NO 24-hour A&E)
Address: Cressing Road, Braintree, Essex, CM7 5EL
Phone: 0300 443 0103
NHS Trust: Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust
Emergency Department: No — this is a community hospital providing outpatient, minor injury, and rehabilitation services. It does NOT have a 24-hour A&E. For any emergency requiring A&E, travel to Broomfield Hospital (CM1 7ET) or call 999.
Primary Schools in Braintree
There are no grammar schools in Braintree District. From 2 September 2024, Ofsted inspections use the new report card framework with no single overall effectiveness grade. Inspections before that date retain their overall grade until re-inspected.
| School | Address | Phone | Ofsted | Ages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
St Francis Catholic Primary School URN 115194 |
Gilchrist Way, Braintree, CM7 2SY | 01376 320440 |
Good 25 June 2024 (pre-Sept 2024 framework; overall Good) |
3–11 |
|
John Bunyan Primary School and Nursery URN 114818 |
Lancaster Way, Braintree, CM7 5UL | 01376 321814 |
Good 27 February 2024 (old framework) |
3–11 |
|
St Michael's CofE VA Primary School URN 115157 |
Maple Avenue, Braintree, CM7 2NS | 01376 344866 |
Inspected April 2025 New framework (from Sept 2024); Quality of Education Good, Behaviour Good, Personal Development Good, Leadership Requires Improvement, Early Years Good; no single overall grade |
3–11 |
|
White Court School URN 114988 |
Ennerdale Avenue, Great Notley, Braintree, CM77 7UE | 01376 331801 |
Good 8–9 November 2022 (old framework) |
3–11 |
|
Notley Green Primary School URN 138901 |
Blickling Road, Great Notley, Braintree, CM77 7ZJ | 01376 343485 |
Good Previously Good (June 2015); monitoring visit December 2024 — outcome: "improved significantly". Verify at reports.ofsted.gov.uk |
3–11 |
|
John Ray Junior School URN 143538 |
Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1HL | 01371 829216 |
Inspected March 2025 March 2025 is post-new framework; no single overall grade. Verify at reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/21/143538 |
7–11 |
Always verify at reports.ofsted.gov.uk using the URN. St Michael's CofE (URN 115157) and John Ray Junior (URN 143538) were both inspected under the new Ofsted framework (no single overall grade). St Francis (URN 115194) was inspected in June 2024 — just before the new framework took effect on 2 September 2024 — so it retains an overall Good grade.
Secondary Schools in Braintree — No Grammar Schools
All secondary schools in Braintree are non-selective. Alec Hunter Academy is the strongest performer at its most recent inspection (Good, 2022). Both Notley High School and Tabor Academy were rated Requires Improvement at their most recent inspections — verify current outcomes at reports.ofsted.gov.uk.
| School | Address | Phone | Ofsted | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Alec Hunter Academy URN 139402 |
Stubbs Lane, Braintree, Essex, CM7 3NR | Verify at school |
Good 8 November 2022 (old framework). Note: Liam Howlett of The Prodigy attended Alec Hunter. |
11–18; verify sixth form |
|
Notley High School and Braintree Sixth Form URN 137013 |
Notley Road, Braintree, Essex, CM7 1WY | Verify at school |
Requires Improvement 11 July 2023 (old framework). Note: Olly Murs attended Notley High School. |
11–18; sixth form YES |
|
Tabor Academy URN 139179 |
Panfield Lane, Braintree, Essex, CM7 5XP | Verify at school |
Requires Improvement 26 September 2023 (old framework); monitoring visit 28 January 2025. Verify current outcome at reports.ofsted.gov.uk. |
11–18; verify sixth form |
Frequently Asked Questions — Braintree Mortgages
Is Braintree good value for London commuters given the longer train journey?
⌄
Strongest value for buyers who commute less than 5 days per week or who work partly from home — lower price partially offsets longer commute
Braintree's ~1 hour train to Liverpool Street is longer than Harlow (~30 min), Chelmsford (~28 min), or Basildon (~30 min). However, the house price is also substantially lower — approximately £325,000 average versus £390,000 for Chelmsford and £500,000 for Brentwood. The trade-off is clear: you trade commute time for purchase price, which translates directly to lower mortgage payments and a larger property for your budget.
For buyers who work from home 2–3 days per week (a common hybrid working pattern post-2020), the commute time penalty is reduced — on a 2-day-per-week in-office pattern, the extra 30 minutes each way adds only 2 hours per week of additional travel versus a Chelmsford buyer. At that rate, the price saving on a £65,000 lower purchase price (vs Chelmsford) represents approximately £310 per month saved in mortgage costs — significantly more valuable than the commute time cost at any reasonable time valuation. Braintree is strongest value for hybrid workers.
What is Great Notley and is it different from Braintree?
⌄
Great Notley is a planned development village south of Braintree town (CM77) — newer housing stock, its own surgery and primary schools, higher prices than Braintree average
Great Notley is a large residential development built from the 1990s onwards on former agricultural land approximately 1–2 miles south of Braintree town centre, with its own CM77 postcode. It is administratively part of Braintree District but has a distinct character from the older market town. Housing is predominantly private-sector detached and semi-detached family homes, 1990s–2010s construction, with generous plots by Essex standards — similar in character to Church Langley in Harlow.
Great Notley has its own dedicated infrastructure: Great Notley Surgery (Notley Green, CM77 7GS; 01376 341411), Braintree Dental Studio (CM77 7WW; 01376 569090), Notley Green Primary School (CM77 7ZJ; 01376 343485), and White Court School (CM77 7UE; 01376 331801). The Country Park (Great Notley Country Park) is adjacent to the development. Prices in Great Notley command a premium of approximately 15–25% over Braintree town average for equivalent property types. Residents drive or take the bus to Braintree station for the London service — the A131 link is short. For families wanting newer housing, Great Notley is the Braintree area's answer to Church Langley or Beaulieu Park in Chelmsford.
Can I get a mortgage on a new-build in Braintree or Great Notley?
⌄
Yes — but new-build mortgage criteria differ from existing property; deposit requirements, builder incentives, and developer-imposed restrictions require whole-of-market access
Braintree and the wider district have seen ongoing new-build activity — particularly in Great Notley (CM77), parts of CM7 (Braintree town fringes), and surrounding villages. New-build mortgages have specific considerations that make whole-of-market access valuable:
- Minimum deposits: some lenders require 10% on new-builds (vs 5% on resales); some require 15–20% on new-build flats. Not all lenders accept all builders or developers.
- Valuation risk: new-build properties may be valued at less than purchase price at mortgage valuation — "overvaluation risk" where developer/builder pricing exceeds what a lender's surveyor agrees. If this happens, the mortgage offer is based on the lower valuation, requiring a larger deposit.
- Builder incentives: some developers offer cashback, upgrades, or part-exchange schemes. Lenders treat some incentives as affecting the effective deposit — understand this before exchange.
- Completion delays: new-build offers have a fixed validity period — typically 6 months (some lenders 12 months). If build completion is delayed, you may need to extend or reapply. An adviser monitors this process.
Is Braintree Village the same as Freeport Braintree?
⌄
Yes — Freeport Braintree rebranded to Braintree Village; the railway station is still called Braintree Freeport station
Braintree Village (operated by Landsec) is the designer outlet shopping complex adjacent to Braintree Freeport station on the branch line — approximately 250,000 sq ft, 85+ stores including Coach, Ralph Lauren, BOSS, Reiss, M&S Outlet, Nike, Adidas, and Next Outlet. It was previously known as Freeport Braintree and rebranded to Braintree Village by 2024. The railway station that serves it remains officially named Braintree Freeport station on the Greater Anglia timetable — so a Greater Anglia journey from Liverpool Street to "Braintree Freeport" takes you to the outlet shopping, not to Braintree town centre. Braintree town centre is the next station along the branch (one stop further). Estate agents sometimes reference proximity to Braintree Village as a feature for buyers; it is a genuine destination in its own right.
Self-Employed Mortgages in Braintree
Braintree has a strong independent business and trades economy — Crittall manufacturing, textile and creative industries, construction, and logistics around the A120/Stansted corridor. A whole-of-market adviser finds lenders whose criteria work for your income structure.
Sole Traders and Tradespeople
Most lenders require 2–3 years' SA302 tax returns and HMRC tax year overviews. Income assessed as net profit. Braintree's strong trades sector — builders, electricians, plumbers, landscapers, joiners — means sole-trader mortgage applications are common. If your net profit has grown in recent years, an adviser can identify lenders who use the most recent year only or take a rising profit trend into account. A whole-of-market adviser accesses all lenders — not just those on a panel — which is where income flexibility is found.
Limited Company Directors
Directors paying a combination of salary and dividends have two assessment approaches available from different lenders: (a) salary + dividends declared — assessed income is what you drew; (b) salary + share of net profit — assessed income includes retained profit. The net profit approach typically supports substantially higher borrowing for directors who retain profits in the company. Two years' finalised accounts from a qualified accountant are usually required. Many Braintree-area directors run businesses in construction, logistics, textiles, and professional services — a whole-of-market adviser identifies lenders who apply the most favourable assessment methodology for your specific accounts.
Contractors and Stansted/M11 Corridor Workers
Contractors billing through limited companies or umbrella companies — common in the Stansted Airport logistics/aviation supply chain and the M11 tech and finance corridor — can often borrow based on their daily rate annualised. This calculation produces a higher income figure than PAYE salary, allowing more borrowing. Lenders who accept annualised contractor rate typically require 6–12 months' contracting history and current contracts. Braintree's A120 direct access to Stansted Airport means airport and logistics sector contractors are a common applicant type. An adviser finds lenders whose criteria fit your specific contracting structure and sector.
Remortgaging in Braintree
Braintree prices rose approximately 1.4% in the year to October 2025 — modest growth that means many 2020–2022 buyers have built meaningful equity. As fixed-rate deals from 2021–2023 expire, a whole-of-market review may significantly reduce monthly payments.
Rate Review at Renewal
At Braintree's typical outstanding balances — £140,000–£250,000 for buyers who purchased in 2015–2022 — a 1% rate reduction saves approximately £117–£208 per month. Reverting to a lender's SVR (averaging approximately 7–8.5% in 2025) is substantially more expensive than the best available fixed rate. Start the remortgage process 6 months before your deal expires to lock a rate without early repayment charges. A whole-of-market adviser searches all lenders — your current lender's product transfer may not be the best available rate.
Equity Release for Improvements
Braintree buyers who purchased in 2015–2019 at prices of £220,000–£290,000 have seen substantial equity growth to current values of £280,000–£340,000. Capital-raising remortgages can fund extensions, loft conversions, or kitchen rear extensions — popular improvements in Braintree's semi-detached and terraced stock that add both space and value. Full affordability assessment required. Verify current values with a surveyor before applying. A whole-of-market adviser compares capital-raising rates and lender criteria across all options.
New-Build Remortgage
Buyers who purchased new-build properties in Great Notley (CM77) and on Braintree fringes in 2019–2022 may be approaching the end of their initial fixed-rate term. New-build remortgages have a key consideration: the property was typically valued at purchase price on the original mortgage — but is it currently worth more or less than that? If the market value has fallen below the original purchase price (uncommon but possible in new-build-heavy areas where new stock continues to be released nearby), LTV increases and some rate tiers become unavailable. An adviser checks current market values before applying to avoid a declined remortgage application.
Indicative Remortgage Savings — Braintree
Figures are approximate and illustrative — based on interest-only calculation of a 1% rate reduction. Actual savings depend on your outstanding balance, term, rate type, and chosen lender. A whole-of-market adviser calculates exact figures based on your position. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Ben Tomlin, financial adviser, FCA No. 1038034.
Council Tax in Braintree 2025–26
Braintree is a two-tier area — Braintree District Council (district) and Essex County Council (county). The Band D total for 2025-26 is confirmed in Braintree District Council's Guide to Council Tax 2025/26.
| Component | Annual (Band D) 2025–26 |
|---|---|
| Essex County Council (inc. Adult Social Care) | £1,579.59 |
| Braintree District Council | £206.01 |
| Essex Police and Community Safety | £260.37 |
| Essex County Fire and Rescue | £87.57 |
| Total Band D 2025–26 | £2,133.54 |
Essex County Council receives approximately 72 pence in every £1 of council tax; Braintree District Council approximately 9 pence. Some properties in parish/town council areas carry an additional small parish precept — verify at braintree.gov.uk. Verify band for any specific property at gov.uk/council-tax-bands. Braintree's Band D total (£2,133.54) is lower than Harlow (£2,216.43) and comparable to Colchester, reflecting Braintree District Council's modest district precept of £206.01.
Braintree at a Glance
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Local authority | Braintree District Council (district) + Essex County Council (county) — two-tier; Causeway House, Bocking End, Braintree, CM7 9HB; 01376 552525 |
| Postcodes | CM7 (Braintree town and rural north); CM77 (Great Notley village) |
| Rail | Greater Anglia; Braintree Branch Line → Witham → Liverpool Street; fastest ~58–65 min; ~1 per hour |
| Road | A120 (Stansted/M11 westward; Colchester eastward); A131 (Chelmsford south; Halstead north); A12 at Witham (~6 miles) |
| House price overall avg | £325,000 (ONS Oct 2025, district-wide) / £347,000 (Rightmove Mar 2026); +1.4% yr/yr |
| Grammar schools | None — all secondary schools non-selective |
| Nearest A&E | Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford, CM1 7ET; 01245 362000; ~10 miles south via A131 |
| Local hospital | Braintree Community Hospital, Cressing Road, CM7 5EL; 0300 443 0103; NO 24-hour A&E |
| Council tax Band D 2025–26 | £2,133.54 (ECC £1,579.59 + Braintree DC £206.01 + Police £260.37 + Fire £87.57) |
| Courtauld silk heritage | George Courtauld established silk manufacturing 1818; crêpe production from 1825; funded Town Hall, Courtauld Hospital, public gardens |
| Crittall Windows | Founded Braintree 1884 by Francis Henry Crittall; Silver End model workers' village 1926–1932; still manufactures in Braintree |
| Warner Textile Archive | ~100,000 items; Silks Way, CM7; UK's second-largest publicly-owned textile collection after V&A |
| John Ray (1627–1705) | Born Black Notley near Braintree; Father of Natural History; coined "petal" and "pollen"; defined modern concept of a species |
| Henry Adams | Emigrated from Braintree to Massachusetts c.1638; patrilineal ancestor of Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams |
| Notable people | The Prodigy (formed Braintree early 1990s; Liam Howlett attended Alec Hunter); Olly Murs (born Witham; attended Notley High School) |
| Braintree Village | Designer outlet (formerly Freeport Braintree); ~250,000 sq ft; 85+ stores; own branch-line station (Braintree Freeport) |
How Buying a Home in Braintree Works
| Step | What Happens | Who Is Involved |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Mortgage in Principle | Adviser assesses your income, outgoings, and deposit. Obtains a Decision in Principle (DIP) from a lender. This confirms how much you can borrow. Most Braintree estate agents ask to see this before accepting an offer. | You + mortgage adviser |
| 2. Property Search | Search Rightmove and Zoopla. Use local agents in Braintree town and Great Notley. Decide whether to focus on CM7 (town/Notley Road area) or CM77 (Great Notley) based on your priorities (price, school catchment, newer vs older stock). | You + estate agents |
| 3. Make an Offer | Offer is made verbally via the estate agent. If accepted, property is SSTC. Nothing is legally binding at this stage — either party can withdraw. Braintree market is generally less competitive than closer-to-London towns. | You + estate agent + seller |
| 4. Instruct a Solicitor | Appoint a conveyancing solicitor. They carry out local authority searches (Braintree District Council + Essex County Council), environmental searches (A120 proximity relevant for some properties), and title checks. | You + conveyancing solicitor |
| 5. Mortgage Application | Full mortgage application submitted. Lender carries out valuation survey. Mortgage offer issued (typically within 4–6 weeks). For new-build in Great Notley or Braintree fringes: check mortgage offer validity against expected completion date. | You + adviser + lender |
| 6. Survey | HomeBuyer Report or full structural survey. Particularly important for Braintree's Victorian and Edwardian town-centre stock, and for older CM7 5/CM7 2 terraced houses from the 1970s–80s. Surveyor will flag damp, structural movement, and condition issues. | You + RICS surveyor |
| 7. Exchange of Contracts | Both parties sign contracts. You pay the deposit (typically 10%). Completion date is set. Transaction is now legally binding. | Both solicitors |
| 8. Completion | Mortgage funds released. Balance of purchase price transfers. You receive the keys. SDLT paid by solicitor within 14 days. Registered as new owner at HMLR. | Both solicitors + lender + HMLR |
About That's Family Finance
We Are an Introducer
That's Family Finance is an introducer — we connect Braintree buyers and remortgagors with carefully selected, FCA-regulated whole-of-market advisers. We do not provide mortgage advice ourselves. When you contact us, your details are passed to an adviser who then contacts you directly, carries out a full assessment, and searches the whole market for the best fit for your circumstances. Ben Tomlin, financial adviser, FCA No. 1038034, operates as the introducer.
Why Whole-of-Market Matters
A whole-of-market adviser searches all available lenders — not just a panel or the lenders on a price comparison website. This matters most for buyers with self-employed income, unusual income structures, imperfect credit, older properties, or leasehold complications. Different lenders have very different criteria — the same applicant can be declined by one lender and accepted with a generous offer by another. Whole-of-market access finds the lender whose criteria match your specific situation.
How to Contact Us
WhatsApp us at 447585709461 with your name and a brief description of what you're looking for (first-time buyer, remortgage, buy-to-let, self-employed, etc.) — the adviser will respond directly. Alternatively use the contact form at thatsfamilyfinance.co.uk. We cover all of Essex including Braintree, Great Notley, Witham, Halstead, Coggeshall, and surrounding villages. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
Useful Resources for Braintree Buyers
| Resource | Where | What for |
|---|---|---|
| Braintree District Council | braintree.gov.uk · Causeway House, CM7 9HB · 01376 552525 | Council tax, planning, local authority search (district) |
| Essex County Council | essex.gov.uk | County services, highways, education; local authority search (county) |
| Greater Anglia | greateranglia.com | Braintree branch line timetable; Braintree → Liverpool Street via Witham |
| Ofsted Reports | reports.ofsted.gov.uk | Verify school grades by URN before relying on this page's data |
| Broomfield Hospital A&E | mse.nhs.uk · CM1 7ET · 01245 362000 | Nearest full A&E (~10 miles south of Braintree) |
| NHS — Find a GP | nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp | GP practices accepting new NHS patients in CM7 and CM77 |
| SDLT Calculator | gov.uk/stamp-duty-land-tax | Stamp duty for your price and buyer status |
| Warner Textile Archive | Silks Way, Braintree, CM7 | UK's second-largest textile collection; managed by Braintree District Museum Trust |
| Braintree Village Outlet | braintree-village.com | Designer outlet on the branch line; Braintree Freeport station |
| That's Family Finance | wa.me/447585709461 · thatsfamilyfinance.co.uk | Introduction to FCA-regulated whole-of-market mortgage advisers |
Stamp Duty in Detail — Braintree Buyers
Standard Rates (from April 2025)
0% on the first £125,000. 2% on £125,001–£250,000. 5% on £250,001–£925,000. At Braintree's terraced average of approximately £284,000: 0% on first £125k = £0; 2% on £125,001–£250,000 = £2,500; 5% on £250,001–£284,000 = £1,700. Total: £4,200. At the semi-detached average of £337,000: 0% = £0; 2% = £2,500; 5% on £250,001–£337,000 = £4,350. Total: £6,850. At the detached average of £476,000: 0% = £0; 2% = £2,500; 5% on £250,001–£476,000 = £11,300. Total: £13,800.
First-Time Buyer (FTB) Relief
FTB relief applies if you have never owned a property anywhere in the world. 0% up to £300,000; 5% on £300,001–£500,000; no relief above £500,000. At Braintree's terraced average of £284,000: £0 SDLT — zero stamp duty. This is one of Braintree's strongest FTB advantages: the terraced average sits below the £300,000 FTB threshold, meaning most first-time buyers of terraced stock pay nothing. At £337,000 (semi avg): 5% on £37,000 = £1,850. At £325,000 (overall avg): 5% on £25,000 = £1,250. Discuss eligibility with your conveyancer before exchange.
Additional Dwelling Surcharge (BTL / Second Home)
An additional 3% is charged on each band for second homes, buy-to-let, and additional dwellings from 31 October 2024 (rate increased from 2% to 3%). At the terraced average of £284,000: standard SDLT £4,200 + 3% on entire £284,000 = £8,520. Total: ~£12,720. At £337,000 (semi): standard £6,850 + 3% on £337,000 = £10,110. Total: ~£16,960. Always verify at gov.uk/stamp-duty-land-tax for current rates before exchange — rates have changed multiple times in recent years. A conveyancing solicitor confirms the exact SDLT liability for your specific transaction.
SDLT rates correct at April 2025 (post-threshold restoration). Always verify at gov.uk/stamp-duty-land-tax. Relief eligibility must be confirmed with a qualified conveyancer. The additional dwelling surcharge rate was 3% from 31 October 2024.
Braintree's Neighbourhoods — A Buyer's Guide
Braintree is a market town with a distinct historic core and several residential developments built around it across different eras. Understanding the character of each area helps buyers identify which suits their priorities.
Braintree Town Centre and High Street (CM7 1)
The historic core of Braintree — centred on the High Street (CM7 1JP area), the Town Hall (funded by the Courtauld family), Braintree Museum (former Manor Street School), and the traditional market. Housing in and immediately around the town centre is a mixture of Victorian and Edwardian terraced and semi-detached, some inter-war semis, and above-shop flats. This is Braintree's most walkable area — direct walking access to the station, supermarkets, and town-centre retail. Good for buyers who want the market-town experience and minimal car dependency. Prices: terraced £260,000–£320,000; semi £310,000–£380,000. Horn Mews Dental (CM7 1JP; 01376 552337) and Together Dental (CM7 1EY; 01376 321789) serve this area.
Great Notley (CM77) — Premium Residential Development
Braintree's most sought-after residential area — a planned development 1–2 miles south of the town centre, built from the 1990s on former agricultural land. The CM77 postcode covers Great Notley village, with dedicated local infrastructure: Great Notley Surgery (CM77 7GS; 01376 341411), Braintree Dental Studio (CM77 7WW; 01376 569090), White Court School (CM77 7UE; 01376 331801), Notley Green Primary (CM77 7ZJ; 01376 343485), and Great Notley Country Park adjacent. Housing is predominantly private-sector detached and semi-detached, 1990s–2010s construction with larger gardens than Braintree town average. Access to Braintree station requires a car or bus. Prices: semi £360,000–£450,000; detached £450,000–£650,000+. Best for: families wanting newer-build character in Essex.
Notley Road / Lancaster Way Corridor (CM7 5, CM7 2)
The residential areas built in the 1960s–1980s south and west of Braintree town centre — largely terraced and semi-detached housing from the post-war expansion period. This is where the majority of Braintree's first-time buyer and mid-market transactions occur. Alec Hunter Academy (CM7 3NR; Good), Notley High School (CM7 1WY; Requires Improvement), and Tabor Academy (CM7 5XP; Requires Improvement) are the secondary schools serving these areas. Church Lane Surgery (CM7 5SN; 01376 552474) and John Bunyan Primary School (CM7 5UL; 01376 321814) serve this part of town. Prices: terraced £260,000–£320,000; semi £300,000–£380,000. Best for: first-time buyers and families on mid-range budgets.
Coggeshall Road / Mount Chambers Area (CM7 9)
The eastern residential areas of Braintree along and near Coggeshall Road (CM7 9BY area) — a mix of inter-war semis, 1970s–80s terraced, and some newer infill development. Mount Chambers Surgery (92 Coggeshall Road, CM7 9BY; 01376 553415) and Alba Dental Care (92 Coggeshall Road, CM7 9BY; 01376 334999) are based in this corridor. The A120 bypass to the south of Braintree runs through this area — buyers should check the noise and proximity implications of specific streets near the A120 before committing. Prices tend to be slightly below the Braintree average for similar property types. Best for: buyers who want value within Braintree, particularly if working locally or driving to Witham station.
Secondary Schools — Additional Context for Buyers
Two of Braintree's three secondary schools are currently rated Requires Improvement at their most recent Ofsted inspection. This is a material consideration for families with secondary-age children. The following detail helps buyers understand the position fully before making a decision.
| School | URN | Latest Grade | Date | Framework | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alec Hunter Academy | 139402 | Good | 8 November 2022 | Old (pre-Sept 2024) | Liam Howlett of The Prodigy attended this school. Currently the strongest secondary in Braintree by Ofsted grade. Verify at reports.ofsted.gov.uk — a new inspection may have occurred. |
| Notley High School and Braintree Sixth Form | 137013 | Requires Improvement | 11 July 2023 | Old (pre-Sept 2024) | Olly Murs attended this school. Requires Improvement at most recent inspection; retain overall grade until re-inspected. Standalone Braintree Sixth Form is linked. Check current position at reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/23/137013 before relying on this data. |
| Tabor Academy | 139179 | Requires Improvement | 26 September 2023 | Old (pre-Sept 2024) | Monitoring visit 28 January 2025. Check current inspection outcome at reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/23/139179 — a re-inspection and/or outcome change may have occurred since September 2023. |
Buying Timeline — Braintree
| Stage | Typical Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mortgage in Principle (DIP) | 1–2 days | Get this before viewing — confirms your budget; estate agents in Braintree typically ask to see it before accepting an offer |
| Property search and offer | 1–12 weeks | Braintree market is generally less competitive than London commuter towns closer to the capital; realistic offers usually accepted within 1–3 weeks |
| Offer accepted to exchange | 8–14 weeks | Local authority search (Braintree DC + Essex CC), environmental search, mortgage valuation, conveyancer enquiries |
| Exchange to completion | 1–4 weeks | Typically 2 weeks for chains; same-day possible in chain-free sales |
| Total (typical) | 3–6 months | Varies with chain length; Great Notley new-builds may exchange faster but complete on build schedule |
| New-build — off plan | 3–24 months | Exchange at reservation; completion when build completes; mortgage offer may need renewal if build takes 6+ months |
| Tabor Academy / Notley High catchment | — | If secondary school provision matters to you, verify current Ofsted outcomes and catchment areas directly before committing to a specific street or postcode |
How Much Can I Borrow to Buy in Braintree?
These indicative borrowing amounts are based on 4.5x gross annual household income — a common lender maximum across the mainstream market. Some specialist lenders go to 5x–5.5x for higher earners or certain professions. An FCA-regulated whole-of-market adviser establishes what is actually available from across all lenders for your specific situation.
These are illustrative figures only — actual offers depend on credit history, existing debts, outgoings, deposit size, and individual lender criteria. Some lenders apply higher multiples for certain professions (doctors, lawyers, accountants, engineers) or higher earners. A whole-of-market adviser runs full affordability calculations across all lenders. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Ben Tomlin, financial adviser, FCA No. 1038034.
Broadband in Braintree and Great Notley
Braintree has seen strong FTTP (full fibre to the premises) rollout — important for the large number of hybrid workers who commute to London 2–3 days per week rather than daily. Good broadband meaningfully reduces the impact of the longer (~1 hour) train commute for buyers who work from home regularly.
Openreach FTTP Rollout
Openreach full-fibre is available to a growing proportion of Braintree addresses — the town and district have been included in the national rollout, with availability improving year on year. Town-centre Braintree (CM7 1) and Great Notley (CM77) are generally well served. Multiple providers offer FTTP products over the Openreach network: BT, Sky, Vodafone, Plusnet, Zen Internet, and others. Speeds typically 100Mbps–900Mbps download on full-fibre products. Check availability at your specific address via the Openreach postcode checker before exchange — older rural CM7 properties (CM7 4, CM7 5 rural areas) may have FTTC (fibre to the cabinet) rather than FTTP.
Great Notley (CM77) — New Development Connectivity
Great Notley's housing was developed from the 1990s onwards. More recently built phases (2010s–2020s) typically have Openreach duct infrastructure built in — newer properties are more likely to be FTTP-ready than older stock. The Great Notley development is broadly well served by Openreach FTTP coverage given the density and relative recency of construction. For buyers working from home 3–5 days per week, CM77 full-fibre availability is a genuine quality-of-life advantage versus driving to a Braintree office or enduring the full 1-hour London commute daily.
Rural CM7 — Variable Coverage
The rural northern parts of the CM7 district (CM7 4: Great Bardfield, Finchingfield, Wethersfield; CM7 5: Shalford and surrounding villages) have variable broadband coverage depending on cabinet distance and Openreach rollout progress. Some rural properties are served only by FTTC or ADSL — speeds of 30–70Mbps rather than 100Mbps+. Buyers of rural or village properties in the CM7 4 or CM7 5 area should check at ofcom.org.uk/checker or the specific ISP's coverage tool before exchanging. Satellite broadband (Starlink) is an option in areas without FTTP.
Silver End — Braintree's Model Workers' Village
Five miles south-east of Braintree town, the village of Silver End is one of the most unusual settlements in Essex — an entire planned community built by an industrialist for his workforce, with architectural ambitions that were extraordinary for their time.
The Crittall Model Village (1926–1932)
Francis Henry Crittall — whose Braintree steel window factory had grown from 11 workers in 1884 to over 500 by 1918 — built the village of Silver End between 1926 and 1932 as an entirely self-contained workers' settlement. It had its own department store, cinema, dance hall, library, sports ground, and hotel, as well as hundreds of modernist homes designed with Crittall steel windows throughout. The architectural style was International Modernism — flat roofs, white render, strip windows — a radical contrast to the Tudor-Revival cottage style that dominated English housing at the time. Silver End anticipated the Garden City movement and the architecture of the Festival of Britain by decades.
Conservation Area and Listed Buildings
Silver End is now a designated Conservation Area and contains numerous Grade II listed buildings — the original Crittall-designed modernist houses, the factory building, and the village's public facilities. The distinctive flat-roofed, white-rendered, Crittall-windowed houses are unmistakable and are sought after by buyers who appreciate their architectural significance. A Silver End property within the Conservation Area or with listed status will have specific planning restrictions — alterations to listed buildings (including changing the windows) require listed building consent. A conveyancing solicitor experienced in listed property is advisable.
Silver End for Buyers Today
Silver End (postcodes within CM8 and near Witham) is a distinctive, unusual, and increasingly appreciated place to live — close to Witham station (~6 miles) which gives faster access to Liverpool Street (~47–52 min) than Braintree itself. The village has a strongly defined architectural character, a quiet residential feel, and the historical interest that comes from being a nationally significant example of modernist industrial paternalism. Buyers considering Silver End should be aware that mortgage applications on listed buildings require lenders who accept listed building status — a whole-of-market adviser identifies which lenders do. Insurance costs may be higher on listed properties than on standard housing stock.
Braintree vs Other Essex Commuter Towns
| Town | London Terminus | Fastest Train | Avg Price | Grammar Schools | Nearest A&E |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Braintree | Liverpool Street | ~58–65 min (via Witham) | ~£325,000 | None | Broomfield ~10 miles |
| Chelmsford | Liverpool Street | ~27–30 min | ~£390,000 | Yes (KEGS, CCHS) | Broomfield in town |
| Harlow | Liverpool Street | ~29–32 min | ~£345,000 | None | PAH in town |
| Colchester | Liverpool Street | ~47–53 min | ~£330,000 | Yes (CRGS, CCHS) | Colchester Hospital in town |
| Witham | Liverpool Street | ~47–52 min | ~£330,000 | None | Broomfield ~12 miles |
| Basildon | Fenchurch Street | ~30–35 min | ~£345,000 | None | Basildon Hospital in town |
| Halstead (CM9) | Liverpool Street (bus to Braintree) | ~80–90 min+ | ~£280,000 | None | Broomfield ~20+ miles |
Prices are approximate averages from Land Registry / Plumplot / Rightmove as at early 2026. Braintree's longer train time (1 hour) is offset by lower prices — the price difference vs Chelmsford (£65,000) translates to approximately £310/month less in mortgage costs at typical 2025 rates. For hybrid workers commuting 2–3 days per week, this calculation often favours Braintree. Source: ONS, HM Land Registry, Crown Copyright.
More Questions About Braintree
Is Braintree a good place to invest (buy-to-let) in 2026?
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Modest rental yields on limited flat stock; stronger on terraced houses; BTL stamp duty surcharge applies; whole-of-market BTL mortgage access needed
Braintree has a smaller private rented sector than towns like Harlow or Basildon — the town is predominantly owner-occupied, particularly in Great Notley (CM77) and the established CM7 residential areas. Rental demand is supported by commuters, healthcare workers, logistics sector employees (A120/Stansted corridor), and local employment at Braintree's remaining industrial and commercial sites.
Gross yields on a Braintree terraced property at approximately £284,000 purchased average, rented at approximately £1,050–£1,200 pcm, produce approximately 4.4–5.1% gross — reasonable but not exceptional. Flat yields at approximately £146,000 purchase / approximately £750–£850 pcm rent produce approximately 6.2–7.0% gross — but flat stock in Braintree is limited and individual properties vary significantly. The 3% additional-dwelling SDLT surcharge adds approximately £4,260–£8,520 to purchase costs at these price points. A whole-of-market adviser identifies BTL lenders whose coverage criteria, minimum rent requirements, and income assessment work for Braintree property types.
How close is Braintree to Stansted Airport?
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Approximately 18–20 miles west via A120; approximately 25–35 minutes by car depending on traffic; Stansted Express train is not direct from Braintree
Braintree is approximately 18–20 miles west of London Stansted Airport via the A120 dual carriageway — a direct and generally fast road connection. Journey time by car is approximately 25–35 minutes in normal traffic (longer during early-morning airport peak). The A120 was specifically routed to connect Braintree directly westward to the airport corridor in the 2004 bypass — making Braintree one of the better-connected Essex towns by road to Stansted.
By train, there is no direct service from Braintree to Stansted Airport — the Braintree branch goes east to Witham and south to Liverpool Street, not through the Stansted Express route. The Stansted Express operates from Liverpool Street and Cambridge via Harlow Town and Bishop's Stortford. If you need to catch a Stansted flight, it is almost always easier to drive from Braintree than to take two trains. This road proximity to Stansted is a practical benefit for buyers who travel frequently by air — Stansted serves easyJet, Ryanair, Jet2, and Wizz Air routes across Europe.
Other Essex Towns We Cover
Ready to Buy or Remortgage in Braintree?
Essex's silk and textile capital — where the Courtauld family built a civic infrastructure, Crittall steel windows were invented and the model workers' village of Silver End was born, and the Warner Textile Archive preserves 100,000 items. One hour to Liverpool Street by Greater Anglia. Some of Essex's most affordable commuter prices. We introduce you to a carefully selected, FCA-regulated whole-of-market adviser who searches every available mortgage product.
Your contact information will be passed to a carefully selected, FCA-regulated whole-of-market adviser. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Ben Tomlin, financial adviser, FCA No. 1038034.
That's Family Finance is an introducer. We introduce clients to carefully selected, FCA-regulated whole-of-market advisers. We do not provide mortgage or financial advice. Ben Tomlin, financial adviser, FCA No. 1038034. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. House prices, school information, and healthcare data are correct to the best of our knowledge at time of writing but should be independently verified. © 2026 That's Family Finance. All rights reserved.
Ofsted: St Francis Catholic Primary (URN 115194) — Good, 25 June 2024 (old framework; inspected before 2 Sept 2024 changeover). John Bunyan Primary (URN 114818) — Good, 27 February 2024 (old framework). St Michael's CofE VA Primary (URN 115157) — inspected April 2025, new framework, no single overall grade; Quality of Education Good, Behaviour Good, Personal Development Good, Leadership Requires Improvement, Early Years Good. White Court School (URN 114988) — Good, 8–9 November 2022 (old framework). Notley Green Primary (URN 138901) — previously Good (June 2015); monitoring visit December 2024 — "improved significantly"; verify at reports.ofsted.gov.uk. John Ray Junior School (URN 143538) — inspected March 2025, new framework, no single overall grade; verify at reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/21/143538. Alec Hunter Academy (URN 139402) — Good, 8 November 2022 (old framework). Notley High School (URN 137013) — Requires Improvement, 11 July 2023 (old framework). Tabor Academy (URN 139179) — Requires Improvement, 26 September 2023 (old framework); monitoring visit 28 January 2025; verify at reports.ofsted.gov.uk. Inspections on or after 2 September 2024 use new Ofsted framework (no single overall grade). GP data: verify at nhs.uk. Blandford Medical Centre: Mace Avenue, CM7 2AE; 01376 347100. Great Notley Surgery: Notley Green, CM77 7GS; 01376 341411. Dental: verify NHS availability at nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-dentist. Hospital: Braintree Community Hospital, Cressing Road, CM7 5EL; 0300 443 0103; NO 24-hour A&E. Broomfield Hospital (nearest A&E): Court Road, Broomfield, Chelmsford, CM1 7ET; 01245 362000; Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust; full A&E; ~10 miles south via A131. House prices: ONS/Land Registry (E07000067), Oct 2025; overall avg £325,000; +1.4% yr/yr. Rightmove 12-month avg March 2026: £347,000 (district-wide). Council tax Band D 2025-26: £2,133.54 (ECC £1,579.59 + Braintree DC £206.01 + Police £260.37 + Fire £87.57); source: Braintree District Council Guide to Council Tax 2025/26. Rail: Braintree → Liverpool Street via Braintree branch line and Witham; fastest ~58–65 min; ~1 per hour (Greater Anglia). A120: Braintree bypass (opened 2004); westward to Stansted Airport (~18 miles) and M11 (J8a); eastward to Colchester and A12. Courtauld silk: established Braintree 1818; crêpe from 1825; funded Town Hall, Courtauld Hospital. Crittall Windows: founded 1884; Silver End model village 1926–1932. Warner Textile Archive: ~100,000 items; Silks Way, CM7; second-largest UK public textile collection after V&A. John Ray (1627–1705): born Black Notley; Father of Natural History. Henry Adams (1583–1646): emigrated from Braintree to Massachusetts c.1638; ancestor of Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams. The Prodigy: formed Braintree early 1990s; Liam Howlett attended Alec Hunter High School. Olly Murs: born Witham; attended Notley High School Braintree.
Braintree Essex · CM7 Braintree town · CM77 Great Notley · Braintree District Council · Essex County Council · Causeway House CM7 9HB 01376 552525 · Greater Anglia branch line Witham Liverpool Street ~1 hour · Braintree Freeport station · Braintree Village designer outlet · A120 Stansted M11 · A131 Chelmsford · Broomfield Hospital CM1 7ET 01245 362000 nearest A&E · Braintree Community Hospital CM7 5EL NO A&E · Courtauld silk 1818 · Crittall Windows 1884 Silver End · Warner Textile Archive · John Ray Father of Natural History · Henry Adams Presidents Adams · The Prodigy Alec Hunter · Olly Murs Notley High · No grammar schools · Alec Hunter Good · Notley High RI · Tabor Academy RI · That's Family Finance · thatsfamilyfinance.co.uk · Ben Tomlin FCA No. 1038034