Start Hill in Essex is not just Charli XCX’s hometown but also a commuter’s paradise
Essex: You know, Essex is packed with celebs, right? From football stars to reality TV icons, it’s a hotspot. But one name that’s really taken off is Charli XCX. She even gives a shoutout to being an Essex girl in her songs.
Charli, whose real name is Charlotte Emma Aitchison, has been making waves with her latest album, Brat. It’s sparked a TikTok dance craze that’s gone global. But before all the fame, she grew up in a small hamlet called Start Hill.
Born in Cambridge, she spent her childhood in Start Hill, which is part of Bishops Stortford. In her song ‘Girl,’ she proudly mentions her Essex roots, saying, “Forgot that inside the icon, there’s still a young girl from Essex.”
Start Hill might not seem like the typical place for a pop star to grow up. There’s not much going on—just an industrial park, a fish and chips shop, and an Esso garage. But it’s got its charm.
Now, Bishops Stortford, just nearby, is a different story. It’s got that perfect mix of city life and countryside vibes. Families love it there, thanks to great schools and a variety of local shops. You can find everything from cute boutiques to high-street stores and fancy food spots, all just a short drive from Start Hill.
What Start Hill lacks in entertainment, it makes up for in being a commuter’s dream. It’s right on the B1256 road, close to Bishops Stortford and the M11 motorway. Plus, it’s only about 3 miles from London Stansted Airport, making it super convenient for anyone who travels a lot.
