Block and Estate Management is about the minutia done well: the role of a Managing Agent is technical, administrative, practical and political. It takes joined up thinking to do what we do well as well as sufficient resource to react to whatever is necessary day-to-day.
As a Managing Agent we know our true business is building relationships with people. Our people are empowered and know that they can make a difference to how people feel about where they live. We call our 'Property Manager's 'Relationship Managers’ to embody our values which are to build relationships, add value, and to take the initiative. We lead the market in transparency and focusing on risk, cash, repairs and place making, usually in that order, and was the first Managing Agent to introduce a ' money back guarantee ’.
Being who we are would be impossible without our passionately committed people, whose qualifications we sponsor and who we support professionally to be the best they can be, as achieving a national training award and our Silver IIP status confirms.
Transition: Our problem not yours
Good Building Surveying is about having the experience to follow the trail of suspicion to quantify concealed defects
An online service, like internet banking: we run demands, arrears, service charge accounts & legal admin, you set the budget and upload invoices to pay
How to change Managing Agent
Changing Managing Agent needn’t be daunting, we have a team dedicated to gathering information, benchmarking leases and setting up plant registers
There’s a lot you need to know to run the service charge properly: politics, law, building pathology, financial accounting, company matters, here’s a few tips
We understand the minimum fees of a full block management service may be prohibitive to small blocks – that’s why we created www.servicechargesorted.co.uk
Regulated by
The Ringley Group is regulated by all three major bodies - Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), the Solicitors Regulation Authority, and the Financial Conduct Authority.
Members of
We have professional memberships in The Property Institute, The Association of Rental Living, The Institute of Fire Safety Managers, Chartered Association of Building Engineers.
We empower teams out on site
Site staff are the eyes and ears of the developments we manage, they are fully connected to our customer relationship management systems. The work they do is visible to residents, e.g., day books and end of shift inspections on the Ringley Gateway portal.
We see success as the emotional connection of each resident to where they live, so the task is simple... to empower site teams to make a difference on resident at a time.
We hire and place a range of site staff including: Concierge, Caretakers, Housekeeping, Cleaners, Gardeners, Maintenance Engineers and more… read more about site staff solutions
Block Management Overview
for RTM Companies
for FMC
for RMC
for Estates of Houses
for Freeholder Investors
Ground Rent Collection
How to Change Agent
Block Management Packages
Can't Afford an Agent?
Legal work & Tribunals
Section 20 Major Works
Ringley's Top 10 Tips
Staff on Site
Block Management Overview
Block and Estate Management is about the minutia done well: the role of a Managing Agent is technical, administrative, practical and political. It takes joined up thinking from a multi-disciplined team with one eye on the strategic long term plan and with sufficient resource to react to whatever is necessary day-to-day: the skills that block and estate management spans are: politics, building pathology, finance, legal knowhow and of course customer service too.
As a leading Managing Agent, we are a one-stop-property shop. We understand that our role is sometimes signposting Clients to get expert advice and supporting them to interpret such advice and make decisions. We support and help owners reach out to government and other local services where matters are beyond our day-to-day block management remit.
As a Managing Agent we know our true business is building relationships with people. Our people are empowered and know that they can make a difference to how people feel about where they live. We call our 'Property Manager's 'Relationship Managers' as our focus which is written up in our values is (a) to build relationships, (b) add value, and (c) to take the initiative: to us this means managing relationships. We lead the market in transparency and focusing on risk, cash, repairs and place making, usually in that order, and was the first Managing Agent to introduce a 'money back guarantee'.
We are not shy of hard work and believe our ability to get stuck in and find solutions that sets us apart. We are innovative to the core and committed to implementing good ideas in pursuit of 5* service.
Being who we are would be impossible without our passionately committed people, whose qualifications we sponsor and who we support professionally to be the best they can be, as achieving a national training award and our Silver IIP status confirms.
There is no need to put up with apathetic management, Right to Manage is a no fault process that can not only put you in control of running your block but also can build community or be a precursor to buying the freehold later on. Claiming your Right to Manage costs a few hundred pounds not thousands.
If you serve an Information Notice on the Managing Agent and/or Freeholder in connection with claiming your Right to Manage they have to provide you with owners contact details
How would you like to rejoice and take control of the block management your building? Given that your apartment is a huge personal investment read on and see how we not only help leaseholders set up an RTM Company, serve notices to claim their Right to Manage, help set up the management and implement their strategy going forwards. We find that lack of repair, deteriorating building quality or unexplained high service charges are the usual motivations that drive leaseholders to claim their Right to Manage. After taking over, a not too onerous process in which you don’t even need to prove the Freeholder is at fault, the RTM gets to decide how your hard earned service charge monies will be spent.
Invoking your Right to Manage requires a simple majority of qualifying leaseholders to sign the RTM claim notice. If there are several buildings, then a separate RTM for each may be required and our Solicitors practice Ringley Law will be able to talk you through the criteria and likely future arrangements for your block.
Whether the motivation is to be able to grant lease extensions, use development rights or be in control of the block management, buying the freehold can be rewarding and challenging.
The role of the professional Managing Agent is to support decision making and offer up insights to help get the right thing done
A Freehold Management Company or “FMC” is required when more than four people want to own the Freehold of a block of flats. Each leaseholder who buys into the freehold then becomes a sharehder or member of the Freehold Company and as a stakeholder gets a say in how the block of flats is run.
Together the freehold shareholders/members in the are dependent on each other for support to get things done, and, to create long term common objectives etc... Some leaseholders will need to stand as Freehold Management Company Directors to either appoint a professional Managing Agent or deal with the day to day management of the block themselves.
Running a Residents Management Company 'RMC' is a partnership between the chosen Managing Agent and the elected RMC Directors. Client Directors need to rely on the Managing Agent for leadership and insights into a range of fields and in turn the Managing Agent needs to rely on the RMC Directors for decision making.
A Residents Management Company is a not for profit business where good governance, resident engagement and future planning are key
A Residents’ Management Company is a Limited Liability legal entity formed specifically with the primary goal of ensuring the interests of leaseholders of a residential block of flats are managed. Usually an RMC is formed by the housebuilder or developer who may or may not retain a golden share until they have sold all of the homes. Thereafter, the members or shareholders, comprise the flat owners or leaseholders.
Increasingly Local Authorities require developers to set up estate management companies to manage unadopted roads, grounds, pumping stations etc... An Estate Management Company brings with it all the governance responsibilities of running a company as well as the responsibility to collect the estate charge and manage contractors and repairs.
It takes no less skill to run an Estate than it does apartment blocks, pumps, drains and grounds all need to be managed as does a sense of community
Managing property whether leasehold or freehold is about a shared understanding of what needs doing, why, the cost and ensuring through transparent dealings the estate charges we have to collect are seen to be value for money. Ringley is tenure blind and seeks to engage with all stakeholders whether that be private and mixed tenure housing estates where the owners may comprise; House owners, Leaseholders of Apartment Blocks, or Social Housing sectors.
We are acutely aware that look and feel of the environment and estate lands around one's home has a huge impact on the quality of life and feeling of health and well-being and sense of community created. Effective estate and housing management translates into residents enjoying a clean, well managed and peaceful environment and translates into improving assets for owners in the long haul.
Our team of RICS registered valuation experts provide commercial, residential and rural property valuations to banks and building societies, property companies, developers, investors and fund managers.
We assist Property Owners throughout the UK acquire, gear up and grow their investment portfolios
Gone are the days where a Freeholder can sit in the background collecting ground rent and doing little else. We live in an age where leaseholders are consumers, parliament has rejected ground rents that double every 10 years and has set plans to outlaw ground rent on all new leases. In short, the Law has changed and increasingly the balance of power favours leaseholders.
Happy leaseholders who see their service charges as value for money are less likely to buy their freehold or claim their Right to Manage. This along with a predefined strategy on lesse extensons, such as to offer shorter lease extensions with a modern ground rent will drive the freehold investment vslue up. The combined expertise of Ringley Law to deal with Lease Extensions and Ringley Surveyors to value premiums and negotiate best prices means that Ringley can uniquely cover all bases.
Assuming a typical ground rent of £350 per annum, 50% more ground rent on a typical block of 300 flats is £6,300 each year. At a 4% yield switching could add a whopping £157,500 to the investment value!
Save up to 50% on ground rent collection: the magic that enables us to do this is bulk processes and robotic acounting
Ringley collects Ground Rents for Freehold Investors, Developers and resident controlled Freehold Management Companies. Ground rent has to be paid whether or not there is a disagreement with the landlord so collecting it effectively is a matter of ensuring correct service and the right prescribed notes are included.
Delivering investors more of their money is possible because our cost base is lower. We use annual demand packs and send copy demands, polite reminders and final notices by email. We offer Leaseholders the option to pay by direct debit also.
At Ringley bulk processes, robotic accounting and automated allocations and the mailing warehouse we use together make light work of managing ground rent collection. Together this creates the magic and is why our fee is not the 10% to 12% norm, but is just 6%*, some 50% cheaper.
Changing Agent needn't be daunting if you choose well. At Ringley Natalie and Danielle are here to make light work of getting what we need from other Managing Agents and deciphering from the budget what plant is on site and which contractors we need to track down. And if there is no cooperation, Ringley Law can change Companies House codes and buy leases to get us started.
We understand that you wouldn't be changing unless there were problems, so we will over resource things year 1 to give you a good start
We know block management handovers are not always easy but there are ways to get the data we need to get started and getting you set up for operational block management is our headache not yours.
We follow the ARMA recommended handover list and will seek all property docs including: insurance, contracts and contractor lists, owners, title documents, accounting, site staff payroll, health & safety and company information.
We like to write out to all owners before we start on site so they can get a flavour of Ringley. You’ll find us very approachable throughout the transition process.
With as little as a lease and list of owners immediate set up is possible. We’ll reserve the position on opening balances and other matters whilst we piece the rest together.
The responsibility of Block and Estate Management is far reaching to the unaware. So, depending on the risk level you are comfortable with we have a range of packages to suit.
From DIY with pay-as-you-go to full HR management we've got you covered
We pay £5 to the first person to report a maintenance issue
light bulbs which the cleaner needs to change
dumped cars
blown over trees
dumped fridges or large items
There are 4 ways to report a problem:
Photo it, and email solutions@ringley.co.uk
Log onto the Ringley Gateway™
Phone your Property Manager
If you are the 1st owner to report it, we’ll transfer £5 from our office account to your service charge account to say "thank you".
We do this because we believe property management works best when there is a partnership between the owners and the managing agent.
When a block is small or an estate has few shared services self managing could be an option. It takes a Board or Director who is willing to get involved in the nitty gritty stuff.
We provide the tools and infrastructure to keep you safe and abreast of key processes
We agree for small blocks employing a Managing Agent can be a luxury, so we offer a budget solution for small blocks called BlockCare 300.
BlockCare 300 service….. your Online Property Manager
WE send out the demands, collect payments (and any arrears), owners can even pay by direct debit.
YOU control spending and instruct any repairs and upload the invoices to the portal for us to pay.
WE pay the bills and compile the service charge accounts.
AND, when properties sell we’ll handle the legal paperwork, share certificates too, that will be a little extra though, from £275 plus VAT.
Not every Managing Agent has the know-how to signpost you when it comes to the tricky stuff. Ringley has a track record of making light work of challenges where others have failed.
With 20+ years experience, most challenges we've usually encountered before
Our aim is to ensure that our property management is backed up by responsive, affordable legal backup. This we deliver through our integrated SLA Regulated company, Ringley Law whose specialist areas are:
Recovery of service charge debts via
County Court litigation, and/or
Tribunal where a "breach" or "reasonableness" needs to be proved
Legal drafting to
grant statutory 90 year lease extensions and 999 year leases
vary defective service charge clauses & enable advance collection
It takes a lot of planning to get big projects on site: to build up reserves, budget for any shortfalls and get consultation notices served and do contractor probity checks.
It is important for Clients to get involved and inspect comparable projects of the chosen contractor
There are many overlapping aspects to undertaking a works on the structure and fabric of a building or to communal services ranging from technical diagnosis to legal consultation and of course public relations to get owners to buy into their share of costs and accept these as “reasonable”.
Leasehold reform is on the political agenda, yet the complexities of landlord and tenant legislation remain. The Client needs to be able to trust their Managing Agent to get things right.
Getting demands, onsultation notices, accounts and all things Companies House right needs professional expertise
1. Alterations
Most leases require a leaseholder to obtain consent before making any alterations to a property. Consent is granted by a document known as a 'Licence to Alter'.
NEVER assume timber walls are not structural We had to stabilise floors in a 1980’s timber framed building after an unsuspecting owner removed the wall between the kitchen and living room.
Your proposed works will be an alteration IF the answer is YES to any of these questions
Will your works:
affect any face of the building (window/door/skylight etc..)?
cut through any wall?
remove any part of any wall (internal, external or partition wall)?
increase the amount of waste water/sewerage? (E.g. new kitchen, bathroom, toilet, shower etc.)
modify a communal service? (E.g. remove a radiator on a communal heating system, re-route a communal waste pipe.)
Site staff are the eyes and ears on site. At Ringley they are not remote outworkers but integrally connected fully fledged team members who get daily companywide updates, are on the same customer relationship management systems, have access to floor plans to assist in problem solving and customers can see their inspections on the Ringley Gateway portal.
We see success as the emotional connection of each residents to where they live, so the task is simple... “to make a difference on resident at a time.”
Site staff are not mere namesake remote outworkers but integrally connected fully fledged team members who get daily companywide updates, are on the same customer relationship management systems, have access to floor plans to assist in problem solving and customers can see their inspections on the Ringley Gateway portal. They are your true assets critical in adding value to the capital growth of your development – they are our (yours and ours) eyes and ears gauging your property’s underlying pulse and wellbeing!
“We see success as the emotional connection of each resident to where they live, so the task is simple... to make a difference one resident at a time.”
"Our appointed Relationship Manager was extremely, friendly & helpful, she answered all my questions in clearly and in detail.
The communication between us felt as if we had known each other for years. We definitely need more people like her on the end of a phone."
Sanjay Modasia 7 days ago
"We’ve had a great experience with Ringley—they provide excellent property management with a highly professional approach. Our property manager, is outstanding. She handles any issues promptly and efficiently, always going above and beyond to ensure everything runs smoothly. We truly appreciate her dedication and support!"
Monika Madan 49 days ago
"We have had a problem with noise from the flat above us in Lady Isle House Ferry Court Cardiff. We contacted a Mr Paul Staniforth who immediately became involved and addressed the situation. We really do appreciate what he has done for us and cannot thank him enough. Once again a big thank you to Mr Staniforth. The noise above was intolerable."
We work alongside those deploying capital: our VirginLand by Ringley identify sites, our capital markets team work on equity and debt, our Asset Managers act as Employer’s Agent during the build for Project Monitoring. Towards Practical Completion we will be preparing always to mobilse new assets, take plant handover, recruit great teams and lease up fast.
Institutions
We work to enhance the value of our Client’s asset and demonstrate good governance. To us this means engaging with leaseholders, residents and other stakeholders to ensure they are engaged with the management of each development.
Investors
Our aim is to make Management Company Directors feel empowered: to us this means 100% transparency and advising them of the options available to support decision making. We know volunteer directors have a day job, so work to delivery what they need in a timely manner and guide them on the decisions we need.
Management Companies
Within The Ringley Group we have a range of professional practices to enable transactions: Land Find, Valuers, Surveyors, Engineers and of course Ringley Law. We work closely with official receivers, asset owners, lenders and tax consultants to support property owners throughout each assets lifecycle.
Home Owners
We work alongside those deploying capital: our VirginLand by Ringley identify sites, our capital markets team work on equity and debt, our Asset Managers act as Employer’s Agent during the build for Project Monitoring. Towards Practical Completion we will be preparing always to mobilse new assets, take plant handover, recruit great teams and lease up fast.
We work to enhance the value of our Client’s asset and demonstrate good governance. To us this means engaging with leaseholders, residents and other stakeholders to ensure they are engaged with the management of each development.
Our aim is to make Management Company Directors feel empowered: to us this means 100% transparency and advising them of the options available to support decision making. We know volunteer directors have a day job, so work to delivery what they need in a timely manner and guide them on the decisions we need.
Within The Ringley Group we have a range of professional practices to enable transactions: Land Find, Valuers, Surveyors, Engineers and of course Ringley Law. We work closely with official receivers, asset owners, lenders and tax consultants to support property owners throughout each assets lifecycle.
Why Ringley?
Ringley is a group of companies. We are a diverse bunch with far reaching expertise in law, engineering, fire surveying and facilities management. Our data-led in-sourced model will save you money and we will listen, understand your goals and get things done. We are innovative and solutions oriented.
We promise:
100% transparency
to find solutions
focused committed people
We're confident our teams will rise to any challenge, so... if you're not happy after 6 months, we will do the right thing
Why Ringley?
As a group of companies we are a diverse bunch with enough experts on board to be a one-stop-property-shop. We listen and align to each Client's goals so each of us knows what needs to be done all the while remaining innovative and solutions oriented - as a team - One Ringley.
We promise:
100% transparency
to network and find solutions
focused committed people
We're confident our teams will rise to any challenge presented, so... If you're not happy after 6 months, we will do the right thing
Romford, a vibrant town in East London, offers a variety of dining options that cater to a range of tastes and preferences. Here are some of the best places to eat out in Romford:
The Windmill – A classic British pub known for its hearty traditional dishes and modern twists on pub favourites. It's an ideal spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family.
The Gourmet Burger Kitchen – For burger lovers, this trendy spot offers gourmet burgers made from high-quality ingredients, with plenty of options for vegetarians and those looking for something a little different.
Osteria – A charming Italian restaurant offering a wide selection of authentic dishes, including wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and delicious desserts. The welcoming atmosphere makes it perfect for a casual or romantic evening out.
The Hare and Hounds – This charming pub offers a warm atmosphere, and its menu is full of well-executed British classics, including Sunday roasts. The venue is also known for its seasonal offerings and great drinks selection.
Zaika Indian Restaurant – If you're in the mood for Indian cuisine, Zaika offers a selection of rich and flavorful dishes. The menu features both traditional favourites and regional specialties, served in a cosy setting.
Franco Manca – A must-visit for pizza enthusiasts, Franco Manca offers delicious sourdough pizza with a variety of toppings. Known for its simple yet exceptional flavours, it's a great spot for a casual meal.
The Market Place – For a contemporary dining experience, The Market Place offers a variety of global dishes with locally sourced ingredients. It's an ideal spot for a quick bite or a more relaxed dining experience.
Romford is a large town in east London, situated 14.1 miles north-east of Charing Cross. It was first recorded in 1177 as Romfort, which is derived from Old English rum and ford. Its original meaning is the wide or spacious ford. Romford developed in the Middle Ages, and had a strong agricultural base, with a number of mills used to grind corn. Between the 15th and 19th centuries, Romford had a leather industry. Other industries included cloth making, weaving, charcoal burning, metal working and brewing. In 1839, the opening of the railway station led to a flourishing local economy. One significant example was the successful Star Brewery. Further local stations were opened, and light industry slowly grew up. In the 1970s, these industries peaked, with factories on the edge of town, including Roneo Vickers office machinery company, Colvern manufacturers of wireless components, May's Sheet Metal Works, and brush manufacturers, Betterware.
oday, Romford retains much of its historic charm, particularly in areas such as the Romford Market and its old High Street. While it has become more urbanised over the years, the town still celebrates its historical roots, with many buildings, landmarks, and events reflecting its long-standing cultural and historical significance in the region. Romford continues to be a thriving commercial hub, combining its rich past with modern amenities and a diverse population.
In Romford, several roads are considered prestigious due to their prime locations, beautiful properties, and historical significance. Here are some of the most prestigious roads in Romford:
Main Road – This road runs through the heart of Romford and is home to many historical buildings and attractive properties. It is close to local amenities, making it highly sought after for both residential and commercial purposes.
Brentwood Road – Known for its scenic surroundings and proximity to the countryside, Brentwood Road features a mix of impressive detached homes and spacious properties, offering a desirable location for those looking for a quieter, more suburban lifestyle.
North Road – This is a highly desirable residential area known for its luxury homes and green surroundings. North Road offers a peaceful, family-friendly environment while still being close to Romford's town centre and transport links.
South Street – With its prime location near the town centre, South Street features a combination of traditional and modern properties. It offers easy access to shopping, transport, and leisure options, making it a prestigious address in Romford.
Beechwood Avenue – Known for its picturesque homes and tree-lined streets, Beechwood Avenue is often considered one of the most prestigious roads in Romford. It offers a peaceful suburban feel while remaining well-connected to transport links.
Gidea Park – Although more of a district than a single road, Gidea Park is home to some of Romford's most desirable properties, with impressive detached and semi-detached homes. The area is popular with families due to its proximity to excellent schools and parks.
The Chase – Located in the prestigious area of Gidea Park, The Chase is home to some large, elegant houses set in quiet, leafy surroundings. This road offers an idyllic and peaceful setting while still being close to all the conveniences of Romford.
Romford, located in the London Borough of Havering, offers a mix of entertainment, history, and leisure activities. Here are some things to do in Romford:
Romford Market – One of the oldest street markets in London, Romford Market has been running for over 800 years. It’s a lively place to shop for fresh produce, clothing, antiques, and more. The market adds to Romford’s historic charm and is a great spot to explore.
Queen’s Theatre – For those who enjoy the arts, the Queen’s Theatre in Romford offers a wide range of performances, including dramas, comedies, and musicals. The venue also hosts events, workshops, and community performances, making it a hub for cultural activities in the area.
The Brewery Shopping Centre – A large shopping complex offering a variety of high street shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It’s a great place for shopping, dining, or catching a movie at the Vue cinema located within the centre.
Havering Museum – For history enthusiasts, the Havering Museum provides insights into the local history of Romford and the surrounding areas. With exhibits covering everything from ancient times to the modern-day, it’s an interesting stop for anyone curious about the town’s past.
Raphael Park – A large public park offering peaceful green space, perfect for picnics, walking, or simply relaxing. It’s a lovely place to spend time outdoors with beautiful gardens, a lake, and play areas for children.
Harold Wood Park – Another beautiful park in the area, Harold Wood Park is perfect for outdoor activities, including sports and walking. It also has a children’s play area, making it ideal for families.
Chase Nature Reserve – A beautiful nature reserve in Romford offering walks through woodlands, meadows, and wetlands. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those looking to enjoy a quiet, scenic environment.
Romford Ice Rink – For some fun on the ice, head to the Romford Ice Rink. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skater, the rink provides a great activity for individuals or groups looking for something active and enjoyable.
The Brewery Tap – For a more relaxed activity, head to The Brewery Tap, a traditional pub in Romford, offering a selection of craft beers and hearty meals. It's a great spot to unwind and enjoy a social atmosphere.
Escape Rooms – For a fun and challenging group activity, you can visit one of the local escape rooms in Romford. Test your problem-solving skills and teamwork as you work together to escape within the time limit.
These activities in Romford cater to a wide range of interests, making it a great place to visit whether you're into shopping, history, nature, or entertainment.
Romford’s cultural scene offers a variety of attractions and activities for those interested in the arts, history, and community events. Here are some highlights:
Queen’s Theatre – As one of the most prominent cultural venues in Romford, the Queen’s Theatre stages a wide range of performances, from classic plays and musicals to contemporary dramas and comedies. It’s a key hub for the performing arts in the area, also hosting community events, workshops, and youth theatre productions.
Romford Market – Beyond being a historic shopping destination, Romford Market serves as a lively cultural hotspot. It often features local artisans, craftspeople, and food vendors, providing a taste of local culture. The market also hosts various community events and festivals throughout the year.
Havering Museum – The museum showcases Romford’s rich history and heritage, with exhibits that cover everything from ancient times to the modern day. It’s a wonderful place for anyone interested in learning more about the cultural and historical evolution of the town and its people.
Havering Festival – This annual festival celebrates the local culture with a series of performances, outdoor concerts, food markets, and community activities. It's an excellent opportunity for locals and visitors alike to experience the vibrant cultural spirit of Romford and the wider Havering area.
Art Exhibitions – Romford has several spaces that host rotating art exhibitions, often showcasing work from local artists and photographers. The Romford Library and local galleries regularly display art, providing a platform for creative expression and artistic engagement within the community.
The Brewery Tap and Local Pubs – Romford’s pubs, including The Brewery Tap, often host live music, open mic nights, and quiz events. These venues provide an informal cultural setting where visitors can enjoy local talent and socialize in a relaxed atmosphere.
Cultural Festivals – Throughout the year, Romford hosts a variety of cultural events, including food festivals, seasonal fairs, and parades. These events bring the community together to celebrate diverse traditions, offering opportunities to experience international cuisines, crafts, and performances.
Street Performers – On occasion, Romford’s high street and market square feature street performers, including musicians, dancers, and theatre groups. These performances add a lively, creative atmosphere to the town and reflect its dynamic and welcoming cultural scene.
Overall, Romford’s cultural scene blends tradition with modern creativity, offering a range of activities and venues for locals and visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in theatre, history, music, or local festivals, there’s always something to explore in this vibrant part of East London.
Romford is a large town in east London, situated 14.1 miles north-east of Charing Cross. It was first recorded in 1177 as Romfort, which is derived from Old English rum and ford. Its original meaning is the wide or spacious ford. Romford developed in the Middle Ages, and had a strong agricultural base, with a number of mills used to grind corn. Between the 15th and 19th centuries, Romford had a leather industry. Other industries included cloth making, weaving, charcoal burning, metal working and brewing. In 1839, the opening of the railway station led to a flourishing local economy. One significant example was the successful Star Brewery. Further local stations were opened, and light industry slowly grew up. In the 1970s, these industries peaked, with factories on the edge of town, including Roneo Vickers office machinery company, Colvern manufacturers of wireless components, May's Sheet Metal Works, and brush manufacturers, Betterware.
oday, Romford retains much of its historic charm, particularly in areas such as the Romford Market and its old High Street. While it has become more urbanised over the years, the town still celebrates its historical roots, with many buildings, landmarks, and events reflecting its long-standing cultural and historical significance in the region. Romford continues to be a thriving commercial hub, combining its rich past with modern amenities and a diverse population.
In Romford, several roads are considered prestigious due to their prime locations, beautiful properties, and historical significance. Here are some of the most prestigious roads in Romford:
Main Road – This road runs through the heart of Romford and is home to many historical buildings and attractive properties. It is close to local amenities, making it highly sought after for both residential and commercial purposes.
Brentwood Road – Known for its scenic surroundings and proximity to the countryside, Brentwood Road features a mix of impressive detached homes and spacious properties, offering a desirable location for those looking for a quieter, more suburban lifestyle.
North Road – This is a highly desirable residential area known for its luxury homes and green surroundings. North Road offers a peaceful, family-friendly environment while still being close to Romford's town centre and transport links.
South Street – With its prime location near the town centre, South Street features a combination of traditional and modern properties. It offers easy access to shopping, transport, and leisure options, making it a prestigious address in Romford.
Beechwood Avenue – Known for its picturesque homes and tree-lined streets, Beechwood Avenue is often considered one of the most prestigious roads in Romford. It offers a peaceful suburban feel while remaining well-connected to transport links.
Gidea Park – Although more of a district than a single road, Gidea Park is home to some of Romford's most desirable properties, with impressive detached and semi-detached homes. The area is popular with families due to its proximity to excellent schools and parks.
The Chase – Located in the prestigious area of Gidea Park, The Chase is home to some large, elegant houses set in quiet, leafy surroundings. This road offers an idyllic and peaceful setting while still being close to all the conveniences of Romford.
Romford, a vibrant town in East London, offers a variety of dining options that cater to a range of tastes and preferences. Here are some of the best places to eat out in Romford:
The Windmill – A classic British pub known for its hearty traditional dishes and modern twists on pub favourites. It's an ideal spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family.
The Gourmet Burger Kitchen – For burger lovers, this trendy spot offers gourmet burgers made from high-quality ingredients, with plenty of options for vegetarians and those looking for something a little different.
Osteria – A charming Italian restaurant offering a wide selection of authentic dishes, including wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and delicious desserts. The welcoming atmosphere makes it perfect for a casual or romantic evening out.
The Hare and Hounds – This charming pub offers a warm atmosphere, and its menu is full of well-executed British classics, including Sunday roasts. The venue is also known for its seasonal offerings and great drinks selection.
Zaika Indian Restaurant – If you're in the mood for Indian cuisine, Zaika offers a selection of rich and flavorful dishes. The menu features both traditional favourites and regional specialties, served in a cosy setting.
Franco Manca – A must-visit for pizza enthusiasts, Franco Manca offers delicious sourdough pizza with a variety of toppings. Known for its simple yet exceptional flavours, it's a great spot for a casual meal.
The Market Place – For a contemporary dining experience, The Market Place offers a variety of global dishes with locally sourced ingredients. It's an ideal spot for a quick bite or a more relaxed dining experience.
Romford, located in the London Borough of Havering, offers a mix of entertainment, history, and leisure activities. Here are some things to do in Romford:
Romford Market – One of the oldest street markets in London, Romford Market has been running for over 800 years. It’s a lively place to shop for fresh produce, clothing, antiques, and more. The market adds to Romford’s historic charm and is a great spot to explore.
Queen’s Theatre – For those who enjoy the arts, the Queen’s Theatre in Romford offers a wide range of performances, including dramas, comedies, and musicals. The venue also hosts events, workshops, and community performances, making it a hub for cultural activities in the area.
The Brewery Shopping Centre – A large shopping complex offering a variety of high street shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It’s a great place for shopping, dining, or catching a movie at the Vue cinema located within the centre.
Havering Museum – For history enthusiasts, the Havering Museum provides insights into the local history of Romford and the surrounding areas. With exhibits covering everything from ancient times to the modern-day, it’s an interesting stop for anyone curious about the town’s past.
Raphael Park – A large public park offering peaceful green space, perfect for picnics, walking, or simply relaxing. It’s a lovely place to spend time outdoors with beautiful gardens, a lake, and play areas for children.
Harold Wood Park – Another beautiful park in the area, Harold Wood Park is perfect for outdoor activities, including sports and walking. It also has a children’s play area, making it ideal for families.
Chase Nature Reserve – A beautiful nature reserve in Romford offering walks through woodlands, meadows, and wetlands. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those looking to enjoy a quiet, scenic environment.
Romford Ice Rink – For some fun on the ice, head to the Romford Ice Rink. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skater, the rink provides a great activity for individuals or groups looking for something active and enjoyable.
The Brewery Tap – For a more relaxed activity, head to The Brewery Tap, a traditional pub in Romford, offering a selection of craft beers and hearty meals. It's a great spot to unwind and enjoy a social atmosphere.
Escape Rooms – For a fun and challenging group activity, you can visit one of the local escape rooms in Romford. Test your problem-solving skills and teamwork as you work together to escape within the time limit.
These activities in Romford cater to a wide range of interests, making it a great place to visit whether you're into shopping, history, nature, or entertainment.
Romford’s cultural scene offers a variety of attractions and activities for those interested in the arts, history, and community events. Here are some highlights:
Queen’s Theatre – As one of the most prominent cultural venues in Romford, the Queen’s Theatre stages a wide range of performances, from classic plays and musicals to contemporary dramas and comedies. It’s a key hub for the performing arts in the area, also hosting community events, workshops, and youth theatre productions.
Romford Market – Beyond being a historic shopping destination, Romford Market serves as a lively cultural hotspot. It often features local artisans, craftspeople, and food vendors, providing a taste of local culture. The market also hosts various community events and festivals throughout the year.
Havering Museum – The museum showcases Romford’s rich history and heritage, with exhibits that cover everything from ancient times to the modern day. It’s a wonderful place for anyone interested in learning more about the cultural and historical evolution of the town and its people.
Havering Festival – This annual festival celebrates the local culture with a series of performances, outdoor concerts, food markets, and community activities. It's an excellent opportunity for locals and visitors alike to experience the vibrant cultural spirit of Romford and the wider Havering area.
Art Exhibitions – Romford has several spaces that host rotating art exhibitions, often showcasing work from local artists and photographers. The Romford Library and local galleries regularly display art, providing a platform for creative expression and artistic engagement within the community.
The Brewery Tap and Local Pubs – Romford’s pubs, including The Brewery Tap, often host live music, open mic nights, and quiz events. These venues provide an informal cultural setting where visitors can enjoy local talent and socialize in a relaxed atmosphere.
Cultural Festivals – Throughout the year, Romford hosts a variety of cultural events, including food festivals, seasonal fairs, and parades. These events bring the community together to celebrate diverse traditions, offering opportunities to experience international cuisines, crafts, and performances.
Street Performers – On occasion, Romford’s high street and market square feature street performers, including musicians, dancers, and theatre groups. These performances add a lively, creative atmosphere to the town and reflect its dynamic and welcoming cultural scene.
Overall, Romford’s cultural scene blends tradition with modern creativity, offering a range of activities and venues for locals and visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in theatre, history, music, or local festivals, there’s always something to explore in this vibrant part of East London.