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Looking for Advice on Moving to Ovingdean/Rottingdean from Surrey

27 replies

ilsenyw · 09/03/2025 07:23

Hi everyone,
We’re a family of three considering a big move and would love some advice! My partner and I recently turned 50, and we have a daughter who will be starting secondary school in 2026. She currently attends a private school in the Kingston Upon Thames/Surrey area, and since we both work mainly from home, we have the flexibility to relocate.
We’ve always dreamed of living by the sea and countryside, and now feels like the right time to make it happen. We recently visited Roedean School and all really loved it, so we’re looking at the Ovingdean/Rottingdean area for a home. We love Rottingdean, but the housing prices are quite high – our budget is around £850K-£950K, though we could stretch a little if it’s worth it.
We’re specifically looking for a 4-bedroom house with some garden space. We’d love to be in a smaller, welcoming community—ideally somewhere without too many Airbnbs or party rentals. We really want to feel part of the neighbourhood and settle in for the long term.
One important factor for us is the commute to London, as we will need to travel there once a week. How easy is it to get to a train station from Ovingdean or Rottingdean? One of us can provide a lift if needed.
Would love to hear any insights from those familiar with the area! Is it worth stretching the budget for Rottingdean, or are there hidden gems nearby we should consider? Any advice would be amazing.
Thanks in advance! 😊

OP posts:
GRex · 09/03/2025 07:39

It's very hilly in Ovingdean, and a long walk to/ from the buses along the front. We had a look years ago and decided the properties seemed very over-priced as well as impractical for commuting easily every day (even in icy February). I second looking at Saltdean, it is a much more practical location. If it was the quiet hills that you liked but not transport, then another option is to find out school bus routes for Roedean and compare with the bus/ train maps, as that might open up other options that are better value.