Anyone know Henley village near Ipswich?

[Movingtosuffolk2022]

We are looking to move to near Ipswich to be closer to family. Saw some beautiful properties near the village of Henley. Wondered if anyone knows the area? We live quite far away so we can’t go back and forth to spend time there unfortunately. Just me, my husband and two dogs - we won’t be having children sadly. Would love to hear any thoughts people have on the area!

I don’t know it well but it’s considered a nice part of town. You’ll need a car as public transport very limited a no amenities on your doorstep but it’s pretty, plenty of dog walks, pubs you can drive to etc. Easy access to the A14.

Actually there is one amenity on your doorstep - Henley village hall. I play in a band which rehearses there one evening a week, and it looks as if there are quite a few activities going on there both daytimes and evenings, indoors and outdoors.

Thank you! I don't drive - need to learn so I think I will be a bit isolated (already am where I live now). Seen the community hall. We are torn between a house in henley and a house in Lexden in Colchester

I wouldn't live in Henley if you don't drive! I don't drive (I live in Ipswich) and have to rely on friends in the band to give me a lift to rehearsals. There are very few buses to most of the little villages outside Ipswich. Many of the villages are lovely, but I wouldn't consider living there as would be too isolated!

Lexden is a good choice. You can walk into colchester town centre, everything on your doorstep and half an hour away from Ipswich.

@Movingtosuffolk2022 Hi op, just seen this thread. I live a few minutes from Henley in another very small quiet village, moved from north Suffolk nearly five years ago. We have settled really well here and have been made very welcome. It is a lovely area; Woodbridge, Debenham, Framlingham in easy reach. Heritage coast also not far. I didn’t think I’d love Ipswich, I used to do all my shopping in Norwich and that was my main comparison, but actually Ipswich has some nice areas, good independent shops, cafés, arts, culture, museums etc. We’re very rural but can get into Ipswich town in 15-20 minutes. Norwich is just over an hour by car or 40 mins by train, London Liverpool St is just over an hour. We do drive which in all honesty is pretty invaluable here, but there is a bus service from Henley into Ipswich a few times a day, takes 15 mins. It’s very pretty where we are, quiet and peaceful, lots of nice walks, very good pubs. We don’t feel isolated at all, it feels like a great balance to us, though obviously that’s a personal thing and driving makes a big difference. I would definitely suggest learning if considering a move to the area. My eldest dd was a very anxious leaner driver with a few fails behind her and after moving we found her a wonderful instructor and she then passed with flying colours.