I'm moving to North Devon - any advice?

[Upstartcrones]

We are planning a whole new life and I'm excited and terrified in equal measure

We have the opportunity to permanently move into a family property that will eventually pass to me. It needs work so we will spend the next 12 months doing it up before we move in. In the meantime we will be staying for regular periods getting ourselves used to the area. Its a two bed and we've got two kids (boy/girl under 6) so they will be sharing for a bit whilst we work how how to extend.

We've had a rough few years so I really want to make this work. Its a fantastic opportunity that will change our lives. Our income is sorted and not dependant on location so we are all set. But i can't help but worry about starting a new life all over again.

I guess I'm posting this to vent my excitement and fear, but also to ask you wise ladies for advice on how to settle into local area.

Sorry for my ramblings! Has anyone done this move to north devon or do you live there and have words of advice on settling in?

Any thoughts would be appreciated

Actually forgot to mention its not just the area but the whole 'moving to a new area and getting your head around it' bit I'd appreciate words of advice on.

Might get MNHQ to change title.

Can you drive and have you got transport? We live in a rural area and public transport is non existent, so a car and driving is essential. Of course you may be moving into the centre of a town, in which case you should be okay.

Get out and talk to everyone in the local area. A family member moved to somewhere similar a couple of years ago and they made a huge effort to chat and pass the time of day with anyone and everyone they met. As a result she got herself a great network of friends. You have school age children, so that makes it even easier for you in a way, as you can network at the school gate. Good luck. It is a lovely part of the world.

Thank you both!

Yes we do have cars and there are bus links where we are moving to so transport shouldn't be an issue.

I thought the school might be a great place to start meeting new people, I will practice my small talk skills to get chatting to people. That's a good idea.

The area we are moving to is the Bideford area, does anyone live there already?

As you might guess by my username I'm in Devon.

We moved here from London 4 years ago and have never had a moment of regret.

We love the more laid back way of life. Much more community spirit and lots less crime.

Stunning scenery and great things to do on our doorstep in every direction. Bideford and westward ho have fabulous beaches for beach combing and exploring.

You will love it if you like the outdoors life.

Get a car that is practical and not too fancy, because it will get muddy. Also, waterproofs and good walking boots.

Don't try to drive to Devon on a Saturday morning in summer, or a Bank Holiday weekend, ever. The traffic will destroy your soul.

Oh-and you will encounter lots of horses/walkers/cyclists, so brush up on rural driving skills and etiquette and be realistic about how long it will take you to get from A to B.

Following on from Bluewaves, don’t try to drive out on a Bank Holiday Monday either.

How much time have you spent there before now, and when?
I grew up in north Devon. We used to see the incomers moving down after a couple of lovely summer holidays only to leave after a couple of years when they realise it's very different living there year round.

Moved there recently and love it. People very friendly and lots to do. It rains a lot tho! I think the key is getting out and meeting people to help you feel more at home.