Where to live?

[Confuzzles]

Hi there
I live in the southwest and am considering a move further up country on Hampshire/Dorset border to be closer to family/friends. I'm married with a small baby. Work is no problem transferring and getting a job easily. Can any one give their opinions on Christchurch, Romsey or Alresford and which spot they like best and which area has the best schools/quality of life etc!! I'd be looking to live somewhere friendly and welcoming! Any opinions gratefully received!

Hello! We live in a small village about 5 miles outside of Romsey and love it. I've put some pros and cons below but the main issue would be public transport if you are reliant on it

Pro's
Very pretty area
A fair amount of affordable housing both in Romsey and surrounding areas depending on your budget and requirements
New Forest is on your doorstep
Good schools both primary and secondary in both Romsey and Salisbury
Beaches and the coast are easily accessible within 30-40mins drive
Good for activities lots of clubs for children and swimming pools in the area
Southampton is very close which is not particularly pretty but good for shopping and has both the airport and fast train links to London.

Cons
Nightlife is more pubs and restaurants rather than bars and clubs (if bars and clubs are your thing otherwise this could be a pro )
If you need to get across the New Forest on the A31 in Summer it can be a nightmare
Public transport is not great. Romsey has a train station but it's a slow train basically between Salisbury and Southampton
There are buses from the surrounding villages but they can be infrequent. Having said that, the school bus transport is good
If you want to live in the New Forest then housing can be expensive
You really would need a car unless you were happy to live in either Southampton or Salisbury

Hope that's of some help