Moving to Chippenham (or Swindon or Wootton Bassett)

[EmpressMatilda]

My DH has just got a job in Swindon. We want to move somewhere that is a good commute to his work but also keeps Bath and north Bristol in play for mine and his future jobs (we want our next move to be somewhere we can stay for 15+ years so have to think of these things).

We have pretty much decided on north Chippenham. We can find some good 3 bedroom family homes within our budget that look good for DH's commute. They are all in the same area, near St Paul's Primary School. Ofsted report looks fine and can't see any problems with the area but I would like an inside view please.

We've also not ruled out Wootton Bassett and Swindon itself but they might be a bit too far from Bath/Bristol. Any views on these places are welcome too.

We have a one year old and will start trying for a second child soon. So living somewhere pleasant, green and safe where I don't have to worry about who the kids hang out with is obviously of paramount importance. Schools are definitely relevant too (though we might home school so it's not the be all and end all).

Our absolute maximum is £170,000 though ideally looking for something more in the £150,000 range.

I have just moved to Chippenham, we're near John Coles Park so in the general area you're thinking and everyone we've met here have been lovely. There are a lot of families in the area and it seems very safe. The park is great for little ones.

My DD is 21 months so I can't really offer much advice on schools but I would definitely recommend Chippenham!

I grew up in Swindon (then lived in Leeds for 9 years) and have been in Chippenham for about a year.

With the main exception of Old Town, there are some pretty grotty areas in Swindon, so I can't really sing its praises! Also the commute to Bristol as you say is a little on the long side.

We've just moved from Cepen Park North, which I guess is where you're looking if you want North Chippenham. It was a lovely 2.4 children sort of area, seemed really safe, was very quiet, nice neighbours, great for the M4, and Morrisons on the door step! We're now near the hospital and it is also a really nice area, although a very different feel to it than the new housing estates of the Cepen Park areas.

My OH commutes to Bristol from Chippenham – cycles to train station, then train to Temple Meads. Although he has driven it, it's mainly Bristol car parking prices that puts him off.

I'm pregnant with my first at the moment, so have no experience of the schools! but I gather that all are very good/excellent (both primary and secondary).

I second the parks too – they are lovely. :) Best of luck.

I lived in Chippenham for nearly 17 years with my kids going both to St Pauls.

I loved living in Chippenham. I live very close to John Coles and it is a privilege to live close to such a beautiful park that kids, teens and adults enjoy.

I am also a teacher in a local secondary school: Chippenham have 3 good secondary schools and I think that is a huge plus for people with kids.

Good luck

Just to add that with your budget, you can find a flat but may struggle for a house.
Good luck :)