Returning to UK after 15 years Overseas …best location with pre-teens?

[Finemjen]

What areas do you recommend to move back to with pre-teens that are close to good schools, activities and green spaces without being too rural - 30 minutes from London? We are familiar with North of England but not London - exploring a few places like Hampstead, cockfosters - should we consider south London, other areas, too?

St Albans if your budget allows (expensive area). Lots for teens/ pre teens to do, huge park, great schools and easy quick train to St Pancras.

Budget, where do you need to commute to?

Hampstead and Cockfosters are very different places.

If you have the money to live in Hampstead, you could also look at Richmond and areas round there either side of the river. Kew, Hampton... all very nice but sleepier than Richmond itself.

What kind of area do you want?

More inner suburbs like Hampstead - maybe Crouch End, Muswell Hill, East Finchley at a push. South of the river you might like Wimbledon or maybe Clapham.

Cockfosters is on the edge of London. Pleasant enough but very different vibe. Dull but family friendly.

So we decided against South / London due to cost and oversubscribed schools. Looking more at North West now - any tips for Manchester area?