Family relocating to UK

[IGottabeme]

Hi,

We are a British expatriate family of five currently residing in the Middle East, and we are planning to relocate back to the UK as our children are approaching secondary school age. Having been abroad for nearly 12 years, we are somewhat out of touch with the current landscape in the UK beyond general news updates.
We are seeking recommendations for family-friendly areas in the Southeast of England that offer good schools and a strong sense of community. Our intention is to rent initially, allowing us time to familiarise ourselves with the area and surroundings before making any long-term commitments to purchase property.
Any guidance or insights would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Totally depends on budget.

I recently stayed in a village near Tonbridge, Kent. Everyone we met was friendly and there seemed to different activities going on. Not sure about schools but we passed one private independent.

would be looking around 650k max, so far Buckinghamshire and Berkshire we have our eyes on.