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29F, family all dead/estranged, suggest me a place in the UK for a new start

126 replies

BubbleLily · 24/06/2025 15:28

I’m looking for a new start after a difficult few years with bereavement and family estrangement. I’ve only ever lived in two places in my life so I have very few points of reference to go by!

I’m 29, single, no children, not in touch with any family/relatives, friends scattered across the UK. I work from home full-time and have excellent job security, so I could go pretty much anywhere.

I would be renting initially but am in a good position to buy once I’ve found an area I like enough.

I’m looking for somewhere that’s young, dynamic, left-wing and open minded. Somewhere that’s friendly and not too difficult for a transplant like me to make new friends in. I’d ideally like for the flat itself to be somewhere with cafes, parks etc within easy reach, somewhere with a bit of a buzz around it without being too loud at night.

On paper, Bristol and Brighton/Hove seem like a good fit, although I’ve never visited either. I also want to live alone, which rules out London as that’s too expensive on my current salary - but I think I could manage in any other city.

OP posts:
ThePoshUns · 24/06/2025 15:30

I was going to suggest Bristol based on the above. It’s vibrant with lots going on.

Sheggsie · 24/06/2025 15:31

York is a fabulous city with great train links and plenty to do.

GaryAvisFanClub · 24/06/2025 15:32

Agree with Brighton (and Lewes?) and Bristol.
Frome?
Hebden Bridge?

I know you mention cities but you might find it easier to meet people somewhere smaller.

GaryAvisFanClub · 24/06/2025 15:33

Oh yes York is a good call. Norwich is nice too.

Fr0styfeet · 24/06/2025 15:33

Yes, my initial thought was Bristol. Or what about Leamington Spa. Not a city but still a good size and lots going on. Central too. Good luck!

Transformed81 · 24/06/2025 15:34

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ThePoshUns · 24/06/2025 15:35

Cardiff is cheaper, some nice flats in the Bay Area with bars and restaurants. Smaller city maybe more friendly?

slowraindrop · 24/06/2025 15:37

Manchester - Chorlton or Whalley Range would be good options.

Soregummy · 24/06/2025 15:40

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Soregummy · 24/06/2025 15:41

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LadyLucyWells · 24/06/2025 15:41

So sorry that you have had such a difficult time, OP.

My first thought was Brighton before I finished reading your OP.

'young, dynamic, left-wing and open minded.' Brighton really is the obvious choice, here. Definitely worth a visit.

Freesiabritney · 24/06/2025 15:44

Glasgow west end or shawlands area would be a good fit.

JustASmallBear · 24/06/2025 15:46

Freesiabritney · 24/06/2025 15:44

Glasgow west end or shawlands area would be a good fit.

I second Glasgow

housethatbuiltme · 24/06/2025 15:55

I would suggest taking some trips and finding out where you like first.

If I was untethered but wanted to stay in the UK I would go Devon due to wonderful childhood holiday full of easy living, a mix of farm/beach life and sunshine (my DH seemed thoroughly unimpressed though). My DH prefers north wales along the coast and says its 'stunning' (I find it grey, drizzly and dreary and quite dull though though no offense to the welsh is just always been cold and wet when we've gone). So even people who mostly think the same can have completely different tastes in places.

GingerPanda · 24/06/2025 15:55

Cambridge is great. But not cheap.

BunnyLake · 24/06/2025 15:57

I can’t suggest anywhere as I live somewhere quiet but what on earth can people be replying that requires deletion by mods?

If I were you I’d make a list of places and go visit. I’m hoping to do similar in a couple of years.

OverlyFragrant · 24/06/2025 15:57

Sheffield

GameBoy · 24/06/2025 16:01

I've lived in both Brighton and Bristol and would say it depends what you want.
Brighton has a very strong LGBTQ+ culture which is quite dominant at times, it is also a tourist destination which is vibrant and busy (too busy for locals?) in summer, but a bit dead in winter.

Bristol is more culturally diverse I'd say and offers something for everyone. Lots of fun stuff throughout the year - especially arts down by the harbourside etc.

cocog · 24/06/2025 16:04

Bristol seems good or bath depending on budget it’s very social and I’ve always felt safe there. Nice friendly people good hospital and sense of community I know people who moved 3 years ago and absolutely love it. No idea about schools though if your planning kids look into schools/nurseries in area before so you don’t have to move.

Needsomeadvice2234 · 24/06/2025 16:07

Cheltenham? Used to love my little flat there. Beautiful place with lovely parks.

Icedlatteplease · 24/06/2025 16:08

Manchester

Frugalit · 24/06/2025 16:10

Why not those hidden gems, Harrogate, York and Hebden Bridge. The only northern places southerners ever seem to deem acceptable.

Changingplace · 24/06/2025 16:12

Manchester! I moved here when I was 22 knowing no one and I’ve been here 20 years now, have loads of friends & have never looked back :)

I’d look at areas like Chorlton, Monton or Didsbury if your budget will stretch

Drew79 · 24/06/2025 16:14

Manchester - Sale, Didsbury or Withington , or parts of Stockport that border Manchester, like Heaton Moor?