relocation to the cotswolds

[picklebanter]

Hi mums netters,
We have been considering relocating to The Cotswolds for about a year now and have actually started to look at property.
A possible move this summer.
I have three Children 16, 13 and 11. My 16 year old will stay in London during the week with his father and I will be with my younger two in the Cotswolds.
I don't know what the reality of living in the villages in like. Is there good community spirit? Not isolating? Also wanting to look at Buford school for my daughters (probably over subscribed) Does anyone have any advice on schools? We like Shipton under w. Also completely different Cheltenham....Stroud? Is there anywhere I should focus my search? thank you x

[HerkyBaby]

Make sure you look at all the school options in the wider area as there is a lot of choice. Be careful of some of the smaller villages as many lie dormant during the week as properties are.only used at weekends. Northleach is probably worth considering along with Winchcombe. Also take a look at Area between Burford and Chipping Norton.

[HoneysuckIejasmine]

Gloucestershire has grammar schools (about 5 in Glos, one in Chelt, two in Stroud) so be aware of that. There's no catchment so far but if you're interested think about the commute.

Try to avoid needing to pass along the A40/A417 near Birdlip ("Air Balloon" junction) as it's an absolute bitch. (They do plan to redo the junction but who knows) A40 between Glos and Chelt also traffic Armageddon.