Cornwall/Devon/Somerset?

[FionaSx]

Hi,

Looking for some general advise over the main big differences from living in Cornwall, Devon and Somerset from the people that may know it best!

My husband and I would love to make a big life change and relocate to the West Country from North Lincolnshire with our two boys and our Labrador.

Only problem is from what we've seen we love it all! Also know just how different a holiday is to living there all the time.

Hope you can help

Thank you! x

Hi OP! I actually grew up in one of these counties and have lived in the other two. I agree that all 3 have their benefits. I'd say there are pros and cons to each.

Cornwall - Pros, great outdoor lifestyle, especially if you want to be near the coast and enjoy the beaches. People are particularly friendly in Cornwall, much more so than the other 2 counties. Cons - travel around Cornwall and in and out of the county can be a nightmare in the summer due to tourists. There is no motorway until you reach Exeter. Truro is really the only decent place for shopping.

Devon - Pros - great countryside, Dartmoor, Exmoor etc and still good beaches although maybe not as easily accessible as Cornwall's. Towns easily accessible and slightly bigger shops such as John Lewis, House of Fraser etc. Cons - some areas are quite remote and not easily accessible. Devonshire folk maybe not so friendly as the Cornish.

Somerset - Pros - easy to access both Bristol and Exeter, great shopping destinations. Lots of green countryside for walks. Good access to motorway to get to other areas of country. Cons - I find people not as friendly as the other 2 counties. Quite 'fast paced' compared to the other 2 counties. Coast isn't as nice and not as easily accessible.

Hope that helps.

Thank you so much for your post, you've given me a lot of food for thought and it has been very informative!

Thinking Cornwall and Devon are the main two in the running now. Our main priorities are that it's a friendly and happy place to bring up our boys, generally has good schools, nice beaches/walks that are dog friendly. Not too fussed about shops and access other than for work. Seem to do most shopping online now! Fast paced certainly isn't our thing either. There does appear to be more house for your money in Devon.

Do you have a favourite?

Glad you found that helpful OP. I agree that you get a lot more house for your money in Devon and there are some lovely areas and good schools. My personal choice would be Cornwall because the lifestyle would suit me better, I like to be out and about, especially the beaches, winter and summer. Also lots of activities, sailing, surfing etc. The good thing about Cornwall is that wherever you live you are close to both coasts so there is a lot of variety to choose from. Some great schools in Cornwall too, just depends on where you decide to live. :-)

Bear in mind that Cornwall is almost 80 miles long... The Devon/Cornwall border suits me as I don't want to drive another two hours to Penzance and St Ives.