The final ever episode of Gavin and Stacey will be shown by the BBC at 9pm on Christmas Day.
Viewers will, for the last time, join the Shipmans and Wests in Barry and Billericay. We might even find out what happened on the fishing trip.
A recurring joke in the series is a disturbing incident that happened on a fishing trip Jason took with his uncle Bryn, played by Rob Brydon.
Aside from the characters and the plot, the television show has thrust Barry and Billericay firmly into the spotlight.
According to Land Registry data analysed by mortgage advisor Alexander Hall, in 2007, when Gavin and Stacey first started, the average cost of a home in the borough of Basildon, in which Billericay is a town, was £196,735.
Fast-forward to 2024 and the average cost of a home in this pocket of Essex is £367,556, an increase of 86.8 per cent on 2007 levels.
Back in 2007, properties in the Vale of Glamorgan, where Barry is situated, typically cost £180,083, according to Land Registry figures.
This year, the average house price in the Vale of Glamorgan is £300,519, representing an increase of 66.9 per cent on 2007 levels.
Stephanie Daley, director of partnerships at mortgage advisor, Alexander Hall, said: ‘When Gavin and Stacey first hit our screens in 2007, it brought national and even international attention to two towns in England and Wales that were, until then, largely overlooked.
‘Today, however, the success of the show and the endless appeal of its characters has made both Billericay and Barry household names.’
She added: ‘In Billericay, the average house price has soared by 86.8 per cent since the show first aired, while Barry has enjoyed an increase of 66.9 per cent.
‘This means both towns have outperformed overall growth in England and Wales, which has seen an increase of 62.1 per cent in the same time period.’
Ms Hall said the upturn in property prices in Billericay and Barry was not just down to their prominence in Gavin and Stacey.
She said: ‘Billericay is a beautiful and historic Essex town with a rich history stretching back to at least the thirteenth century.
‘It is known for its high quality of life with strong commuter routes into London, a selection of good schools, and a genuine sense of community that many commuter towns struggle to cultivate.
‘It also stands among the safest towns in Essex, which means it’s ideal for everyone from young families through to retirees.’
Ms Hall, adds: ‘Across the Welsh border, Barry is famed for its coastal lifestyle, good schools, and boasts proper seaside charm, including the Barry Island Pleasure Park that features heavily in the show.
‘It also offers an easy commute into Cardiff, which is one of Wales’s best areas for employment.
‘And let’s not ignore the fact that Barry has consistently been named as one of the most desirable places to live in Wales by the Centre for Economic and Business Research.’
Nick Henton, a director at Henton Kirkman Residential, said: ‘The historic market town of Billericay, with its 30-minute main line journey time to London, is a unique place where people immediately call home.’
Let’s take a closer look at a number of properties up for sale in Barry and Billericay.
Situated on the Mayflower Park Development in Billericay, this two-bedroom terraced house in on sale via Henton Kirkman Residential for £350,000.
The buyer of this property will be able to put their on stamp on it and decorate it to their own taste. There’s also scope for adding value to the property.
Externally, the house comes with two parking bays and has a 48ft south-east facing garden. It is a 14-minute walk away from Billericay’s main railway station, making it a perfect spot for commuter and leisure travellers.
This three-bedroom Edwardian property is a real gem in the making and has superb potential.
It is on sale via Henton Kirkman Residential for £650,000. It boasts a characterful and classic façade, generous proportions and enviable location.
Internally, the property is full of light and brimming with period features including high ceilings, intricate cornicing, and large windows.
The rear garden, while requiring some attention, is of a generous size and benefits from a sunny westerly aspect. All in all, this a property with brilliant potential.
This impressive four-bedroom detached freehold house is on sale for £875,000 via Nina Estate Agents.
Boasting three reception rooms and four bedrooms, this property is perfect for those seeking ample space and versatility.
Situated in the popular Lakeside area, this property provides breath-taking views across the lake and towards the Bristol Channel.
Outside, the property offers parking for many vehicles, a block paved driveway leading to a garage with side access. To the rear, a block-paved patio area with steps ascending to a laid to lawn area.
This three-bedroom semi-detached property in Barry is on sale via Nina Estate Agents for £410,000. It is located near numerous beaches, coastal walks and country paths.
Internally, the property is immaculate throughout and has been finished to a high standard.
To the front, there is a driveway providing parking for multiple vehicles.
At the back, there’s an enclosed private garden with porcelain tiled patio areas, artificial grass and flower beds. The property also comes with a home office kitted out with underfloor heating and separate internet supply.
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