Moving to stroud?

[knightlydia]

Hiya everyone, hoped i could ask for some opinions/advice from people in the know about stroud.

Im thinking of moving to the area from London with my husband and 2 small boys (2 and 4 months). I was originally bought up in Gloucester but to be honest never got to know the stroud area that well.

Can anyone tell me a bit about what the villages are like around stroud - any good ones / ones to avoid? We have been looking at - Chalford/Bussage/Brimscombe/Bisley/nailsworth/minch so far but we are open to anywhere near stroud/cirencester. The main things for us are good schools, nice countryside and a good community feel. Any thoughts / recommendations?

Secondly, are there many good things to do with young children in the area and ways to meet other mums? We have been pretty spoiled for choice where we are now, which ill really miss, and Id love to build a little social life for my children (and me!)

Thanks for your help

I grew up in Chalford and really want to go back there (or thereabouts) soon. Stroud itself is a bit run down, Ciren is lovely. The majority of the villages (Chalford, Bussage, Frampton Mansel, Bisley, Ruscombe, Minchinhampton, Rodborough, etc) are great.

I have fab memories of my childhood there and recent visits confirm it is still lovely.

I couldn't be more jealous.

Enjoy!

I would suggest cashes green in Stroud. Schools are top notch and amazing parks and the canal on your doorstep. Cirencester is also nice but more expensive than Stroud.