LOCALS have blasted their “snobby” town where rich businessmen snap up homes for millions of pounds.
Known for its “snobby” reputation and expensive properties, Stock is nestled in the heart of the Essex countryside.
Paul EdwardsHarriet Southgate, 25, the local florist who sees the pubs packed to the brim[/caption]
Paul EdwardsThe affluent Essex village of Stock[/caption]
It seems the allegedly fancy reputation of this picturesque village precedes it.
Visitors flock to the quality pubs on all nights of the week – booking out tables well in advance.
It’s like the West End – people come from miles around for the pubs.
Local Estate Agent Mandy Baker, 54
With plenty of eating and drinking places to choose from, this is no easy feat – Stock boasts six pubs, including popular options The Hoop, The Bear, The Harvard and The Baker’s Arms.
Florist Harriet Southgate, 25, said: “I work Saturday nights. When I finish, I have to say I notice The Bear is RAMMED.”
One local resident, who asked to remain anonymous, revealed whenever she tells people she lives in Stock, they turn their noses up.
Lots of “city boys” have moved to the area because it’s so close to London, she added.
She said: “We have a lot of city workers. I’d say this village is made up of a lot of old money, and new money. There’s flats for a million pounds.”
The influx of buyers in this commuter paradise has contributed to its growing posh population – and there’s a social divide as a result.
The average house price for a property in Stock is £684,583 but with several million-pound properties are also being snapped up.
And wealthy homeowners are not afraid to flaunt their wealth either, with Porsche and Mercedes cars lining the main road.
It’s rare for an Essex village to be so buzzing, estate agent Mandy Baker, 54, explained.
Mandy said: “It’s quite unusual in that most Essex villages will have a pub maybe, but we have two village shops, an award winning florist, an award winning hairdresser, four pubs that are really high quality, a hotel.”
Stock is also known for its annual Beerfest, held each May, which attracts locals and tourists alike.
Mandy said the normally peaceful village “might get slightly noisy around the Beerfest,” adding: “People have been known to find some drunk people sleeping in the garden.”
She noted that the village is really “special,” and has a great community spirit.
This comes as more people move out of London, seeking a more peaceful lifestyle outside the city.
Since more people are working from home nowadays, suburb living is becoming increasingly popular.
Explore more of the UK’s villages and homes – like this lonely property.
Or take a look inside the quiet village loved by celebs including a former Harry Potter star and a Channel 4 legend.
Paul EdwardsEsate agent Mandy Baker says people flock to Stock for its community feel[/caption]
Paul EdwardsThe quaint Essex village of Stock[/caption]
Paul EdwardsThe Bakers Arms is one of several pubs in the area[/caption] Read More