thinking of moving to stroud in gloucestershire

[Jhas]

can anyone tell me what the facilities for children under 5 are like please? Also what areas to avoid?

Stroud is very different from the surrounding villages, although plenty to do in all areas IMO

Where exactly are you looking at and why? What is the main reason to move?

don't know stroud at all, and we are thinking of moving from bristol to a more rural area. I come from Cornwall, and would love to go home, but no work there and too far away so we were looking at stroud as the next best thing and also will be close enough to stay in contact with friends in Bristol. The area we live in Bristol is nice, but not the best in terms of schools, and we can't afford to move to where the better schools are in this area. I hope that sort of makes sense?

Hello
DO PLEASE have a look on Mumsnet Local, wont you?
Links are ^^ up there.

Most schools around here are pretty good for primary with most children able to get into their catchment school and then you have the grammar system in stroud/cheltenham/gloucester

Stroud has some cheaper housing but is not so attractive. You can get some nice places in surrounding small towns such as Nailsworth, Minchinhampton and Painswick which have stuff for kids and are prettier areas. As long as you are happy to not have an old cotswold stone property you can get a fair amount for your money. I would recommend renting for 6 months to see which vibe you prefer as all the areas have a different feel IMO

Do PM me if you want any more specific info

Stroud is great although quite mixed in terms of areas and population. Good farmers market on Sat and lots of family activities including a soft play, large park and free museum which we love! Friends of ours live in Uplands which is close to the centre. You could also consider Nailsworth as mentioned above which is a lovely little town or Wotton under Edge which has great local schools and is closer to Bristol too which is an advantage.

Some of the villages Stroud can be quite expensive so do look carefully. But there isn't really a bad area in Stroud or its surrounds. Reasonable schools etc. some areas may not be covered very well by public transport. But there is a good rail link in Stroud, and down the road in Stonehouse. Plus easy access to the M4 and M5. Go for it! I grew up in the area, so know its good

Seriously look at Wotton under edge. It's fair trade, fab community, has its own mini cinema and outdoor pool etc. good links to M5, countryside and also the train station is at cam/Dursley. It's a safer town then stroud. KLB is a top state school. It's not that attractive but is well thought of.

Stroud is mixed in the town itself but the areas surrounding are fantastic. Consider Butterrow near Rodborough with its catchment to a great secondary school comp called Thomas Keble in bussage. Close to Bussage, Chalford is about 4 miles to the east of Stroud very family orientated. Nice schools. Bit too far probably?

Avoid being in strouds archway catchment. The grammars have a good reputation though.

Other options are north devon with direct train links.