Moving to Ilkley after many years down south

[Yorkie31]

Very excited but nervous about a move back to Yorkshire in the near future after 10 years with my young family - my girls are in years 1 and 5.

I wonder if anyone else has done this move from the Home Counties to Ilkley? I think my main concerns are my kids settling well. I’m so nervous but the schools do seem to be well regarded and luckily there is space.

My other (very small) concern is the weather - we love to spend time in the garden. More my husband’s concern than mine :)

Has it been a massive adjustment to those who have done this move for both you and your children?

Do kids tend to walk to school with their friends safely - is it a nice community for kids? My eldest now walks to school with her friends and loves it.

Do teens have enough to do to keep them out of trouble. I grew up nearby but not in the town itself. Can’t wait to be back but having a few wobbles.

Thank you for any advice from anyone who has done a similar move :)

@namechangedforthis2024 thank you for such a positive response. So great to hear your family settled in Ilkley and love it. Hopefully your DH feels at home. I’m sure my DH and kids will, or I hope they will!

We have chosen Ilkley over Harrogate due to proximity to family but also due to the beautiful countryside literally on the doorstep. Also train links to Leeds are important. We are very excited but very nervous and haven’t told the kids yet until we are sure it’s all progressing well as don’t want them to feel unsettled for too long.