Hi,
My husband, puppy and I are currently living in Greenwich, but we're looking to move somewhere in Hertfordshire to start a family (and to escape the hectic London lifestyle!). Our favourite areas are Berkhamsted, Hitchin, Hertford and Harpenden, but these areas don't seem to have any new build houses in our price range (500-600k).
We found an adorable house in Sawbridgeworth, close to the station and the perfect size for our little family. The only thing that concerns me is Sawbirdgeworth itself - it looks absolutely stunning but I just turned 28 last month and my husband is 34, and I'm a bit worried that we won't be able to find friends as easily (finding friends has sadly been near impossible in London as I work at a tiny charity). Community spirit and amenities are also important - and there is only one independent grocer in the town!
Does anyone have experience with Sawbridgeworth? How does it compare to small villages like Hertford? I will probably take a couple years off if we do end up starting a family - are there quite a few young mums who stay at home, meet for coffee, etc.?
Any advice is much appreciated - i'm originally from the US so starting from scratch with English towns is quite difficult. Thanks so much for your help!