Which area would you move to? Fresh start

[Noworries40]

Hello!

I know this has been done to death but we are looking to move in the year. DC are 9 and 4 so I'm aware that they would be 'in year' for schools but I'm prepared to take the risk, I'm looking for a fresh start after some personal difficulties.

Ideally we are looking for places that have fun children and adult activities, fairly good transport into Manchester (1hr), basically happy, friendly and diverse neighbourhoods, good schools - I'm not asking too much am I?? I know certain areas are mentioned but as my DC are slightly older, I'm looking to settle in an area where my DC can adapt and make friends easily. I've visited certain areas but only get a superficial idea so I'd love to hear views of people living in these areas.

Thanks for the recommendations .

Altrincham / Timperley / Sale? Good schools, Alty has a cinema, ice rink, leisure centre. Sale has a leisure centre and sale harriers athletics. Even a rowing club! Tram to city centre takes less than an hour.

Thanks theknackster! I've looked around Sale and Timperley, Altrincham not so much, are there particular neighbourhoods/streets that I should look for in a house search? Do you live in that area if you don't mind me asking? What makes you love it?

We live in the oldfield brow area of altrincham (towards dunham, on the 'wrong' side of the a56). I like the fact it still has some local character, it's a social mix, and the fact the countryside is on the doorstep as is the city and all that offers. It's a little limited on secondary schools if you don't get into a grammar, as we're on the limits of the Wellington cut off, but if the North Cestrian free school move goes through there should be that or ACA as choices at least.

Alty has any number of 'nice' areas to be fair, to suit most budgets - have a drive round or get on street view and have a look.

Thanks for this theknackster that's really helpful.

Are there any other areas that Mumsnet would recommend please?

What kindly property and budget do you have? Didsbury and Chorlton are ace butpricey

Ive looked at houses that we could afford in those areas but I saw on previous threads that Chorlton has a high crime rate? Thanks itsahen for the tip, again do you live there, what do they have for DC my age, are there many clubs and activities? I know it's too early to start thinking about secondary school but are they good in Didsbury and Chorlton?

This is all helpful, I really want to have as much information as I can, I don't have friends in these areas so I appreciate the responses, thank you!

Are you looking for more town than country. You will get more for your money further north. Hebden Bridge??

Thanks mamaf, although I know that area well it's bit too North and far out.

I like the sound of areas around Trafford, we've also looked at Prestwich, Stockport and even Wilmslow/ Cheshire borders, although the latter areas maybe too far out of Manchesrer as well. Can anyone provide feedback on these areas please?

Within Didsbury and Chorlton you have every club or activity known to baby, toddler, child or adult. Schools are ace at primary or secondary. 15-25 min to city depending on mode of transport

Thank you itsahen, I will look into these areas and Trafford.

Are there other areas that I could consider in Manchester area?

It depends how close you want to be, how important transport links are, how diverse an area you want, whether you want grammar schools ...

Cornwall! Every time! We would love a slower pace of life.