Enfield - an Area of London Steeped in History

This article looks at Enfield from a historic perspective, with sections on its notable buildings and its claims to fame. And if you are interested in moving into the area, then local estate agents Anthony Pepe can help - whether you are looking to buy or rent.

This article will take between three and four minutes to read.

While Enfield is a great place to invest in property, it’s also a great place to live - particularly if you have an interest in history. Here Anthony Pepe, who can help if you are interested in a property for sale in Enfield, have a look at some of the borough’s historic buildings and places of interest.

Property for Sale in Enfield with Anthony Pepe

At Anthony Pepe, we can help if you want to move to Enfield (or, if you already live there, to a different part of it). We have offices in many other parts of London as well, including in Harringey, Highbury, Crouch End, Palmers Green, and Cockfosters.

The History of Enfield

Enfield was originally a medieval market town which was first documented in the 1086 Domesday Book as "Enefelde". Known historically for the royal hunting ground of Enfield Chase, the area evolved from a rural settlement into a major industrial centre for arms production before becoming a suburban borough in 1965.

Enfield Market

This still takes place in Enfield Town Market Place every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. It has had a charter to operate since 1303 and is still held in trust for the benefit of local people, although it attracts shoppers from all over London.

As well as a range of stalls, there is also an open-air international Food Court, along with buskers and street entertainers.

St Andrew’s Church

Enfield’s parish church is on the north side of the marketplace. Parts of it dates from the 13th, 14th and 16th centuries, and the most recent substantial addition was in 1824 when the south aisle was rebuilt in brick.

Adjacent to the church is Enfield Grammar School, which dates from the Tudor era. Over the years it has expanded and became a large comprehensive school for boys in the late 1960s. Girls were admitted to the sixth form for the first time in 2023.

Forty Hall and Estate

This Grade I listed Jacobean mansion is surrounded by lush gardens and parkland in the Forty Hill area of Enfield. The hall and gardens are both open to the public, and a number of events are laid on throughout the year, such as craft markets, concerts and festivals, and nature trails for children.

Myddelton House Gardens

You can also enjoy the plants at Myddelton House Gardens, in the Bull’s Cross area of Enfield. The eight-acre grounds play host to a variety of trees, shrubs and flowers as well as an extensive heritage kitchen garden and cut flower beds. It was originally the home of Edward Augustus Bowles, one of Britain’s most famous self-taught gardeners, artists and expert botanists.

The Whitewebbs Museum of Transport

This museum is housed in a former Victorian water pumping station and boasts an impressive collection of vintage vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, bicycles, fire engines, buses, and trams. The museum also has a model railway, a toy shop, and a café, as well as hosts themed events and exhibitions throughout the year.

The museum, which is on Whitewebbs Road, was founded by the Enfield District Veteran Vehicle Trust and is open every Tuesday between 10am-4pm (last entry is at 3pm), and on the last Sunday of the month.

Moving to Enfield? Contact Anthony Pepe

For more information about Enfield, check out our area guide here. And, if this has whetted your appetite and you are considering moving into the area, then our Enfield estate agents can help you move to Enfield Town, Bush Hill Park, Winchmore Hill & Southgate, Oakwood, Waltham Cross and other parts of the borough.

We can also help if you have a property for sale in Enfield, are looking to rent, or want to become a landlord in the borough. At Anthony Pepe, we pride ourselves on our high levels of service and we are constantly looking for new ways to innovate and improve.

Our Enfield office is at 47 Windmill Hill, Enfield, EN2 7AE (tel: 020 8366 3551), but remember we have offices all over North London.

FAQs

Q: How long does it take to get from Enfield to Central London?

A: Direct trains from Enfield Town station to Liverpool Street take approximately 30-34 minutes. Alternatively, trains from Enfield Chase reach Moorgate in about 25-30 minutes.

Q: What is the nearest Tube station?

A: Oakwood station (Piccadilly Line) is the closest underground station for many parts of the borough.

Q: What is the average house price in Enfield?

As of early 2026, the average house price in Enfield is just over £500.000, according to the London Property Guide. Average rents are around £1,670 per calendar month.