Clueless Southerner - alternatives to Horsforth/ChapelA?

[TravelSuper]

Hi all, I'd really value some local advice - I'm moving with young family to the Leeds area... What are the nice alternatives to living in Horsforth/Chapel Allerton? As an outsider these are the two areas you always hear about. What about the north side of Wakefield e.g. Altofts? I am really not a village person and want good transport links to Leeds city centre. By "nice areas" I mean safe (enough), good schools & a fun community vibe e.g. baby groups & a Costa or something!! Ha ha! Any advice very welcome! :-)

Roundhay?
Far headingley/Weetwood?
Meanwood?

There is a bit of a snooty factor about living in North Leeds (I say this having lived here all my life...) I'm sure there are other nice areas around though! Looking at Altofts the secondary schools aren't very good so if that's an issue then perhaps not. Garforth maybe?

Hi TravelSuper

We moved to the Far Headingley/Weetwood border just over a year ago and love it! Just as you say, close to shops and coffee shops. Moved up from London so very used to having local conveniences. Here we can be in town in about 15 mins or out in countryside if you drive the opposite way. Lots of great stuff and lots of families- library, Heart. Community centre, monthly farmers market, greengrocer, baker and butcher around North Lane. My child goes to Weetwood primary and loves it. Any questions feel free to ask.

Thanks so much for the replies SnowCurl, Haarlem & whatsthatcomingoverthehill It's been helpful in my decision making so far!

No worries. Feel free to message if/when you move up :)

Calverley is really family friendly if your children are younger, I'm not sure about secondary age though.
I'd also look at Oakwood, it's near to the park and has some lovely shops and cafes on the high street.
I think Pudsey has a lot going for it as well.