Henleaze or Winterbourne for an ex-South Londoner?

[Wahey79]

Hi everyone

I am from North Somerset originally, but have been living in South London for 17 years, and planning to move back this summer with two small kids. I will probably be working from home, DH has to get to Parkway fairly easily. We've narrowed down areas to north Henleaze or Winterbourne (and I am at peace with the horrors of the in year transfer we'll have to do for son in reception currently, so this isn't about schooling).

Which of the two areas do you think would work best for us? We love being in a city currently, but are looking for a bigger house and garden and slightly quieter life, but equally would like to be able to access a busy high street etc without having to get into the car for everything. Is a move from London to Winterbourne too much of a shock to the system?

All advice appreciated!

Thanks

x

I can't comment on how much of a shock it would be to move from a city to Winterbourne as I have always lived in suburbia, or now in a village close to Winterbourne! However if you would like a high street with useful shops then Winterbourne isn't it, henleaze has a much larger range of shops and is of course walking distance from the top of Blackboy Hill and Whiteladies Rd where there is a range of shops, bars restaurants etc. Winterbourne has a few small shops,but you would need to get the car out for any 'proper' shopping. That said Winterbourne is very nice! Has facilities such as sports centre/swimming pool, library and good schools which would probably be easier to access than those in Henleaze. Cribbs Causeway for shopping is only 5-10 min drive from Winterbourne, Parkway train station close by and buses into central Bristol. Definitely more of a 'country' feel in Winterbourne and probably more house for your money.

Thank you lovinglapland, that's very helpful. We're coming to have a proper look round both soon, so that will hopefully clarify things. x