As The Apprentice gears up for another season this Thursday, its host and renowned ‘boss’ Lord Alan Sugar remains a central fixture on the popular BBC show. Beyond television, he is a giant in the business world with an astonishing empire to his name.
The East London-born tycoon’s journey from dropping out of school at 16 to leading a sprawling international network of companies is remarkable. His ventures include the pioneering technology firm Amstrad, marking a distinctive path for success.
Away from the boardroom battles, Lord Sugar enjoys a relatively private family life in Essex, where he has resided for many years. He tied the knot with Ann Simons in April 1968 at the Great Portland Street Synagogue in London.
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Their wedding was followed by a romantic honeymoon getaway to Majorca that lasted two weeks. Together, they settled in Chigwell, Essex, raising their three children, Simon, Daniel, and Louise, who are now adults.
Chigwell, part of the Epping Forest District, proudly sits in the prestigious ‘golden triangle’. It shares its affluent status with neighbouring Loughton and Buckhurst Hill.
This conservation town is rich in culture and history, boasting landmarks such as St Mary’s Church, thought to date back to the 12th century. Its Georgian architecture adds further charm to the area.
Charles Dickens once called Chigwell “the greatest place in the world”, a sentiment that still holds today. In 2023, The Telegraph ranked it 32nd on the list of the UK’s most affluent towns, marking the biggest rise of any location that year.
The Sugar family’s residence is nestled in three acres of lush parkland and is thought to be nearly 114 years old. Lord Sugar purchased the five-bedroom property in 1981 for £800,000, but it is now estimated to be worth £8.5 million, according to the Express.
Chigwell is known for its high-end restaurants and glamorous residents. Celebrities such as Rod Stewart, Ronnie O’Sullivan, Bradley Walsh, and Mark Wright from TOWIE have all called it home.
According to Rightmove, the average house price in Chigwell over the past year was £615,336. Terraced houses were the most frequently sold, averaging £490,321, while semi-detached properties fetched around £605,900, and flats achieved an average of £416,193.
For those with deep pockets, there’s an opportunity to acquire a stunning Grade II listed manor house on High Road for £8.5 million. Alternatively, a three-bedroom apartment on Manor Road is available for £995,000.
But Chigwell, the heart of affluent Essex, isn’t just about grand homes and celebrity residents. The area has a wealth of attractions for both locals and visitors.
Nature lovers can explore the Roding Valley Meadows Nature Reserve, which offers picturesque walks and wildlife spotting. Nearby, Epping Forest provides miles of scenic trails, nature reserves, and diverse wildlife.
History enthusiasts can visit Ye Olde King’s Head, a 16th-century coaching inn once frequented by Charles Dickens. The author even mentioned Chigwell in his novel Barnaby Rudge.
The former pub has since been transformed into Sheesh, a high-end Turkish restaurant known for its lively atmosphere and exceptional cuisine. It has become a popular dining spot for celebrities.
For sports fans, Topgolf offers a family-friendly driving range, sports bar, and restaurant. More experienced golfers can take on the challenging course at Chigwell Golf Club, which boasts breathtaking views.