Advice on move to Devon please!

[Annarr20]

Hi we are considering moving to Devon, reading that south Devon is more popular although open to suggestions. We are a family with small child. Looking for family friendly area. We enjoy outdoors / walking/ beach life and would like community feel. We would still like to be able to meet people and socialise, in a ‘buzzy’ place so not too rural but we aren’t wanting to live in a city. Any help welcomed!

Exmouth has quite a community feel, Exeter is technically a city but is very small and lovely. Totnes is quite nice with a strong community feel too. I wouldn't describe anywhere in Devon as 'buzzy', it's quite a laid back sort of area!

One of the biggest things to be aware of is that pretty much everywhere (aside from Plymouth and Exeter) is relatively rural and there can be a lot more travel distance involved to get to places - it's easy to end up 20-30 minutes drive from a supermarket, and longer for a hospital. As your child gets older and starts doing stuff (sports events etc), you can find yourself doing even more travelling than you're used to. Just be prepared to spend less time sat in traffic, but driving longer journeys to get to places.

You probably won't get much/any choice when it comes to schools - there's likely only going to be one nearby. So try and make sure that you pick somewhere where with decent schools. If you want beaches/coastal, then you'll probably need to compromise on the above even more, and chose somewhere that's very close to the coast (expensive, typically). I live 5 miles from the coast, but can't remember the last time we actually went there! We do have loads of nice places inland though, and they tend to be less touristy, quieter in peak season etc.

Have a look at Torbay - lots of beaches and always something going on . 45 mins to Exeter or Plymouth

I love living in Plymouth although having lived in some big cities worldwide it took a bit of getting used to.
I live in Plymstock which is just outside if the city and has a nice community with good schools.
I'm 10 mins from a beach and do go quite alot.

Very helpful. I grew up in Northumberland in a tiny hamlet so I am used to rural living and travelling miles to get places. Although after living in big cities since 18 I want to achieve somewhere in the middle! Thanks for help

Did you ever do the big jump and relocate ? We have just listed a lovely house in Paignton for £299,950 4 bed, with great catchment area for schools etc if you was still looking. Thanks