Where on earth shall we move to?!

[newbie2003]

The classic case of wanting to leave London but having no idea where to go!

It’s time for us to leave as our house is becoming to small for us all to function in and debating a move back to the North West where we’re from originally. Can’t say I have a particularly amazing relationship with my parents but they’re fab with my two DDs and I know they’d be really hands on in terms of help.

We’d get much more house for our money, there are some great schools in the area and lots to do for children. We’ve also got a few friends with kids who still live around home that I know and we could slot back in with.

….But is it a step backwards?

We always said we’d never move back but after a long 2 and a bit years of covid and zero support with the kids it’s definitely taken a bit of a toll on mine and DH’s relationship. I feel like we might actually even be able to go for dinner occasionally… shock shock horror!

Other option is still up north but a completely different move like near to York or outskirts of Manchester for a bit more life.

Well aware that only I can answer this one but interested on people’s thoughts!

What are you worried about losing by leaving London and realistically how big is that for you? It sounds like you have decided to leave already. Moving to an area you know and have links to is invaluable and I can’t see how it’s a step back? You don’t sound like you have a burning desire to move to anywhere else?

I'd first consider your relationship with your parents. You say it's not amazing - if you're going to be spending a lot more time with them, will this take a toll on your mental health? Spending time with DH's family drains us, and though they're very helpful with childcare, I wouldn't want to be any closer to them.

And it terms of moving - what do you like about where you live? What do you dislike? It depends on what you value. We live on the outskirts of London and I like the balance of quiet/green, but still being close enough to commute and enjoy London. What would your ideal be?

It is very tricky to not have family help with small children, but my understanding (mine is still v small) is that it gets easier to manage them on your own as they get older - so I wouldn't make the big move just for extra childcare, especially as you say you're not particularly close with your parents.

I think Leeds is great and would quite happily live there if it wasn't for the weather - I find it much more grey and rainy than the SE.

Can you go on a road trip for a week and stay in a few different places and imagine yourselves living there? If you're going to Yorkshire, Sheffield is great for families. Can you give us more of an idea where your parents are?

Go explore other cities you can afford and see what makes your heart sing - go there!

bath, Bournemouth, york, mancs there are sooo many to choose from!