Advice on Henley on Thames

[RichardGB]

Hi all,

My wife, twin daughters (9m old), and I are considering moving from London to Henley on Thames.

Do any of you live there or know the area well?

How are the local schools?

Are there any problem areas to avoid when it comes to looking at houses, or is it all blissfully lovely as they'd have you believe?!

Is there a good atmosphere and things to do for a young family?

Also, how do you find the commute to London? Looks very do-able at 45mins to Paddington on the two direct morning trains, but are there seats available on the peak hour trains in both directions?

Thanks very much for your help!

RichardGB

[MDGilmore]

Hi RichardGB,

I've lived in London as well as Henley-On-Thames so should be able to help you here.

The local schools, both the independent and state schools are good, if you take a look on the Henley Standard website, there's normally some good features regarding education on there.

There aren't really any problem areas, whereabouts have you looked? The only place I'd actively avoid is the Ganesborough/Gainesesborough estate.

Great atmosphere here normally, it can be a bit hooray Henry during regatta week but it is pleasant year round. The town is mainly made up of families so plenty for you to do in and around the town centre.

I used to take the 7.09 or the 7.44 from Henley, very easy to get a seat into Paddington as you are the start of the line. The train does fill up by Twyford/Maidenhead though and is overcrowded. On the way home it is possible to get back in less than 30 minutes if you catch the right train! 18.09 gets to Twyford in 20 minutes then change for Henley train.

If there's anything else you'd like to know, just ask!