Dear all
I would appreciate some thoughts, please. I’m not a mum but I did parent both of my sisters for many years. I’m a primary tutor now.
I’m thinking of leaving London, have been for years. I’m single and in my 50s, with no school kids to help me make friends. But I’m proactively sociable and social.
I’m toying with the idea of moving to Gallowstree Common. But. I. Don’t. Drive. And don’t wish to learn.
(1) would this fact making living there a mon-starter, or is Sonning Common cycleable to? Safely so as a single woman?
(2) Does SC have the essentials I would need?
(3) Is SC nice? I’ve read it’s nice in a normal, non-twee way?
(4) Will I be like a pork pie at a Jewish wedding being a single woman in her 50s?! Are there other singles in the area to socialise with? Are there activities/clubs? Or would I have to travel in to Henley or Reading for these?
(5) Is there decent enough public transport from SC to Henley? Wallingford? Reading? Twyford for the new train line?
(6) Reading sounds like it has its challenges (though living close to Finsbury Park, I’m battle-hardened 😅)?
(7) Is it safe living around there burglary-wise?
(8) Am I making a big mistake?! Not asked seriously. I’ve just had enough of London, but realise this will be a big change. I know that, but would be a bit reassured if I thought I could actually manage well enough on public transport and have ways of making new friends as a single woman in her 50s.
Thanks
Possibly naive North Londoner