Moving to Winchester - Reassurance needed

[Rosypose]

I am moving back to Winchester (where I was brought up) from East Sussex (where I am very happy) with my 2 daughters. I am a little anxious about the move as although I have happy memories of 6th form (Peter Symonds), I never saw myself living back in Winchester.

Why may you ask am I moving... well I have been offered a place at Southampton Uni and it is an opportunity which I really can't pass up. Also, my parents and sisters live near by so will have a lot of support.

So what am I worried about? I know Winchester is a lovely place, great schools, safe, pretty etc., and the kids will be fine and make new friends at school. Just looking for reassurance re me making some like-minded friends. What do I mean by like-minded...? Ummmm, how do I phrase this without causing offense..... I'm just not really a Boden sort of girl, plus I am single and skint and worried that I will feel a little out of my comfort zone.

Can anyone offer some reassurance.....? Many thanks.

We're all sorts here. Ignore the stereotype. You'll find somewhere to fit in! There are a couple of recent threads on schools here, and not everyone is rolling in it. We're certainly not! If you want to avoid the Bodenistas, don't look for houses in Fulflood, Hyde or St Cross. This said, I know loads of nice people there - it's just that the London emigres can bray somewhat...

Lots of ordinary folk in Highcliffe. CAT me if you'd like to chat more.

Hi there

I am definitely not a Boden type and ending up in Winchester, living in a 'Bodenista' area (with a West Sussex, not London emigre!) was the biggest surprise of my life.

I also arrived here totally skint (still am) and single, and knew nobody. I have now made several completely normal friends and met my bloke very soon after arriving. I now can't see myself leaving. Having kids will help you loads. And anyway sounds like you'll meet like-minded people on your course.

As Anner says, CAT me if you want to chat.

I grew up in Winchester and I know exactly what you mean. I would be very nervous of going back to live there permanently although we visit regularly as my family are still there.

I think if you get involved with the schools then you may meet like minded people. I don't think the schools are typically Wintonian. Peter Symonds was great in my day and my nephews are there now, seem very grounded.
I'm pretty sure there are mumsnet socials as a friend from home is a mner and seems to go to things according to FB

Which part of Winchester are you moving to? the town or an outlying village?

The hat fair is coming up, go along and do a spot the non bodens/ Kath Kitsons (is that the one? shop up by the buttercross adverts always int eh sunday papers)

Thanks so much for all your reassurance. Feel much better, think I was just having a wobble. I have deferred my place at uni til sept 2011. That way I can settle the girls and myself before I throw myself into 5 years of full on study.

I may be in touch nearer the time to ask fo local tips.

Thanks so much for your help! X