Hi, we have accepted an offer to start at Hampton. Now the question is logistics/where to live. Ideally, we would like to live closer to the school (30-45 mins door to door) but we also need to balance it with a commute to central London/city. We are moving from overseas so we are open to areas that fit this criteria.
We like Twickenham/Teddington but have just realised that there is no coach service available (will need to take the bus which is around 30 mins). The idea of a short bus ride appeals but since we are new to the country/area, we feel that it might be best for DS to take the coach for a year or so until he is comfortable with the idea of public transport and hopefully has made some friends making the same journey. I can also drive him but similarly, I think a coach ride might be better for him.
Looking at other areas, we are now considering Richmond or Surbiton. But I have heard that Richmond has slow buses so I am not sure if this will make it a long journey if DS decides not to take the coach when he is older. Also, Surbiton means crossing the bridge at Hampton Court or Kingston which could add time to the travel.
As a last option, we can consider Wimbledon. This was originally our first choice as there are 2 coach services from this area and there is also an alternative public transport route via the trains. I have heard that many boys come from Wimbledon but I think the commute would be relatively long, 1.5h for one way? It doesn’t seem to make sense for this option when we can move closer. Also, if I need to pick him or go to school for events etc, the drive would be quite long?
Anyone has any advice to share? I might want to add that we are looking at renting instead of buying. Also we are a bit concerned about the plane noise so would appreciate any comments on that. Many thanks.