Moving to buckinghamshire or St. Albans

[Hazel1234]

Hi ladies I'm looking for some advice. I'm currently living in north London and hoping to move out to a commuter town outside for better more affordable housing. We've been looking around marlow and the surrounding areas such as cookham, beaconsfield, Bourne end, and also St. Albans and harpenden. So confused but wondering about the activities there are their for kids in the smaller villages and towns. I know St. Albans is bigger and prob has more going on but was wondering about cookham and the other villages. Also was wondering about the commute to London if anyone has experience of this. Thanks a million !

[countingtotwenty]

St Albans and harpenden both have lots on for kids and lots of places around to visit with kids too. St Albans commute is quick and easy but you would need to choose trains very carefully to get a seat in the morning. Harpenden commute is good too and you are more likely to get a seat. (Harpenden house prices are pretty steep though, if more affordable than London is your aim I'm not sure harpenden would be my first choice. Schools are good though!)

[HackneyAnnika]

Hi there, I have done the reverse - lived in St Albans for 10 years and now in London and would happily move back there tomorrow. Excellent facilities, schools and green space. I agree with Countingtotwenty, you are lucky to get a seat on the morning commute from St Albans but it is only 20 mins so not too harsh if you're not successful. Harpenden is also beautiful and still have friends with children living there. I'm afraid I'm not so sure about the smaller villages although there are plenty in the surrounding areas. If you do go to one of those do check transport for instance London Colney has no train station. Good luck (am secretly quite jealous - my other half can't leave zone 3 without coming out in a rash) xx

[handcream]

With regard to Bucks,Cookham and Beaconsfield are some of the most expensive places to live outside of Central London. There is the 11 plus here though but very competitive......

[Slipshodsibyl]

St Albans, though expensive, is lively and diverse. It has cheaper areas. I haven't lived in Bucks but have friends who do and it generally sounds a little more staid.

[JokersGiggle]

Beaconsfield! (I like there!) but Harpenden is also really lovely, we often drive over as they have great family orientated events.
Also Marlow is great, we are thinking of moving there next year or so. Its not on your list but well worth a look.