Moving to Horsley from SW London

[Defyingstars]

Hi there, we currently live in South West London and are looking to move to Horsley (offer has been accepted) as it seems a good blend of country life and decent connections. Can anyone tell me what it’s like to live there?
We have a 3 year old and a 6 month old. We are two full time working parents who work in the city and I’m not entirely sure what we will do for childcare as the only nursery doesn’t open until 8am which is too late to make it to work on time. I guess we’ll have to get a nanny but this wouldn’t be my first choice.

• what’s it like living in Horsley? Is there much to do with young kids? Are there many baby classes etc or would you have to drive somewhere for this/ go in to Guildford?
• what is the sense of community like?
• do most parents who work full time have a nanny?
• can anyone recommend any local childminders? This is another option I am considering
• am I right in thinking that Raleigh school no longer has a preschool and it’s just entry at reception?

As you can tell, I’m a bit nervous about leaving the convenience of SW London and all my local mum friends! Any insights shared will be gratefully received.

Hi @Defyingstars ,
Did you ever get any answers to this?? I’m in almost exactly the same boat a year on and have loads of the same questions!

@Kate1985v i didn’t but after the worlds loooongest house chain, we are finally moving this weekend so I can give you the low down once we’re settled!

Hi @Defyingstars just wondering if you would mind letting me know how you’re getting on in horsley. Am in a very similar situation to @Kate1985v and interested to know more in terms of community for young families and childcare too! Thanks!!

Hi @Ems19562 - We’ve been in Horsley for almost a year now so happy to answer as many of your question as I can, will DM you!

Hello! @Ems19562 we have also been here a year and love it a lot!

Perfect mix of countryside but enough on your doorstep. So many young families in the area, we have made some great friends (which was my biggest concern leaving London) . No regrets at all!

also happy to answer any more specific questions you might have . Good luck!

Which Horsley?

@Defyingstars We stumbled upon a lovely house in Horsley East that has us really excited! From what we’ve seen, the area feels safe and peaceful. But, we’re curious about how accessible Uber services are in the area. Also, if we don’t have our own car, are there other convenient ways to get around? Any insights would be greatly appreciated!

@ThatDandyEagle how exciting!
No Uber, I’m afraid (or rather you could try but you’d likely be waiting a long time). There are local taxi firms that are very reliable.m that we use regularly.

You would struggle without a car I think. Train is fine for getting to London, Guildford etc but you’d need a car for most other things. I got the bus once to Guildford but they are infrequent and don’t come through the village so depending on where your house is, you could have quite a walk.

Appreciate this sounds daunting if you’re leaving the ease of London but you get user to it quite quickly!

@Defyingstars thank you so much for this info.

Leaving London does feel quite daunting but your response will certainly help us in making our decision.

@Defyingstars I’ve noticed that the property is adjacent to flood zone 3(near Horsley station) I’m curious to know if there are any broader implications for the surrounding area. Could you provide more insight?”