Nice areas near Bournemouth? Throop?

[jdubya]

Hi - We (hubby and my son aged 7) relocating to the Bournemouth area from Greater London (Essex). We have looked and Broadstone/Corfe Mullen and like them but before we make the final decision we wanted to know what Throop and surrounding area is like? Primary school catchments seem good, but what about secondary? Also are there any other villages/small towns that are worth a look? May take a trip down that way next weekend so any tips/advice gratefully received:-)

Also, in practical terms how far is Ringwood to drive to Bournemouth - we can see schools are good there, but as hubby's father is moving to Bournemouth (central part) we want to be fairly(ish) close to it.

Very many thanks in advance for any help!!!

15 mins to Bournemouth from Ringwood, if that. And a very easy trip straight down a dual carriageway.

Ringwood is lovely and you get a good country market town but not too far from the hussle(!) of Bournemouth just down the road. If you're set on living in the bournemouth area maybe have a look at Westbourne or neighbouring town, Christchurch. Bournemouth has good grammar schools for both boys and girls but not up to speed on which comps are good but I'm sure there are good ones.

HTH