wow, so many replies! thank you!
Devora, thanks for all the links! impressed with Shepperton's spacious flat! what's it like though, and how long to london? it's almost Weybridge! My Mum doesn't like open plan kitchens (not do I btw) so that would rule out some closer areas where it's 2 bed on paper but then the kitchen as a room is missing. Still, a flat in Teddington is quite good - I'm quite surprised, as thought Teddington was much more expensive - I do know the surrounds, lots of greenery. Maybe it depends on the fly paths...
I had a look on rightmove, yes definitely some choice in Bromley and Beckenham - especially I like the look of period conversions though not that many of those. So I take it, Bromley is best in the south and the west, is Clock House good? what is the best park in Bromley (and safe)?
Dinnerdinner, isn't Mottingham right next to N Bromley though? what's U3a btw? thanks for info on community.
skandi do you think Beckenham better than Bromley, and why?
Piglet, property on the tube tends to be moreexpensive unless it's right at the end of the line which is truly soul-destroying to travel on, cold rattly tube - so much better and quicker on modern trains. She can walk (she's quite fit) and happy to use buses though, so thanks suburb for info on good buses.
Solo, is B-heath in Kent also? any particular pluses about it compared to areas mentioned? is it further and cheaper?
DoNotDisturb, Sevenoaks is expensive though - though maybe prices gone down this year?
madam sadly these are out as Mum can't stand being under flight path, they can sound something shocking in Hounslow!
No one yet mentioned anywhere going into Paddington, anything good there too, maybe going into Berks, or is it too expensive there (she wouldn't live in a big modern block like they have in this price range in Newbury)? Just want to have a few diff areas to compare, diffrent character maybe.
Looks like Bromley is most likely, it's a question where in Bromley is best.