Retiring to rural life - in London

Tony Locke, 63, was concerned about his move from the rural idyll of Epping Forest to London, but it turned out to be full of a pleasant surprises. Mr Locke, a project manager for a construction company, says: “Work commitments made it impossible for me to stay in Epping Forest, but when I decided to move from my secluded house to London, I was prepared for a big change! I have always enjoyed having my own space, being surrounded by nature and my rural hobbies and I thought all that would be gone once I moved, but that wasn’t the case. The development at Mill Rise is set in eight private acres of mature gardens, so it feels very spacious and open and there is a lot of wildlife around.

“The properties have been restored externally and re-developed internally, so they are bright, airy and open-plan. I don’t often use my car here, because I can walk to the local shops and there are great public transport links, so I feel very free. I love taking my spaniel, Napoleon, for walks in the area and entering him in local dog shows. I am also able to continue fishing locally which is fantastic. I have been able to keep my pets and continue my outdoor hobbies, while being just 30 minutes from the centre of London. I really feel like I have got the best of both worlds.”

Mill Rise is available exclusively to purchasers over 55. The chalet bungalows at the heart of the development feature traditional red brickwork, tiled gabled roofs and large bay windows.

Interiors are more modern, with fitted kitchens and bathrooms with white sanitaryware and chrome fittings.