Worth renting to be closer to work and nursery?

[Bagabee]

We live out of London and have a two hour commute each way. Can't contemplate doing this when return to work four days a week (baby will be one year old). We're considering letting our house and renting somewhere in town in the short term, to allow us to be closer to a nursery and enjoy a better work / life balance for a few years. Has anyone done anything similar? And, any recommendations for good places in North London for rent / nurseries. Thanks!