I've posted before about good places that are commutable to London - me and DH are making our way round the M25 but don't seem to be making much progress!
We are after ideally:
market town ish feel, or small town, not big
Community feel
Nice countryside nearby
30-40 min commute to CX, Cannon St, Liv St, Moorgate, KX, Farringdon, LB
Good schools (we are TTC)
Plus (but not essential)
good pubs, restaurants nearby
gym
cinema
running club
Top of list is Oxted, then Sevenoaks. Also there is St A, Harpenden, Bishops Stortford, Sawbridgeworth.
Also still to visit Epping, Billericay, Shenfield.
Problem is heart is in South - Oxted, as grew up in Kent and have friends in region and know area. However parents have moved North to Suffolk, so head is saying should go North - maybe Sawbridgeworth. Parents may move down towards Colchester way but I don't think they will move back South now. They don't drive so well on motorway but are fine on smaller roads. Both very able but am thinking of future really. Plus would be nice to just see a bit more of them easily!
But it scares me to move to an area I know nothing about. Luckily DH is fairly amenable to anywhere as long as can get into London easily, though he is a bit scared of it all too!
Essex may be perfect but am a bit discouraged by South Essex reputation really. I know N Essex is lovely, just know nothing about around Epping, Billericay way, nor Bishops Stortford/Sawbridgeworth.
What to do! Anyone else been in similar situation?