Not read all of this thread but as a Scouser who lived in London for 10 years and left it for Gloucs 8 years ago, I say do it!!
We're near Stroud, have pretty countryside, shops you can imagine - I suffer go to Cheltenham occasionally but much prefer Cabot in Bristol.
The worst thing is, it was my idea to move, DH was happy with his half hour commute and ease of access to the airports, the DCs were in one of the most sought-after state schools in the country, but I wanted less crowds and more space.
I've come to terms with it now, and actually we have grammar schools here which is great for my three - one reason for moving was the lack of secondary choices (as we saw it) where we were living.
But if I only had one whose secondary education was at its later stage, I'd certainly consider moving back. We were ''twixt the Commons' in Battersea and later overlooking Wandsworth Common (sigh).
DH sometimes talks about a holiday cottage - but why would you go on holiday to the country when you live there? I'm plotting a houseboat in Chelsea!
Anyway, this one would do you nicely!