Living in Southampton: where to go?

ace_85

Bitterne as a choice isn't too bad, although it is distinctly suburban and doesn't have much in the way of entertaining distractions, save the godawful local precinct. I would echo the sentiments about somewhere nearer to Bitterne Park or Cobden - or even Portswood - which all have better access to the city centre without being on top of it. Just, whatever you do, stay the hell away from Woolston or St Mary's

dodger1

andthethreebears wrote: »

If you want to be in the city I'd go for Bannister Park or Upper Shirley - both quieter areas within walking distance of the centre

Wouldn't want to commute to Warsash from those areas though.

Waterlily24

I used to live in Locksheath and walked to Warsash for work.

Bluebirdman_of_Alcathays

Wickham is nice.

benson1980

Some bits of Bitterne are fine. Some bits are truly horrendous. If you are seriously considering this area, happy for you to pm me with roads/areas you are looking at- I know it very well.

adamg

Depending on where you live in Pompey you caould probably drive to warasash quicker then from soton, but where is the regular place of work as this is where I would base my decision upon. I likethe comment that Polewood is better then woolstoon.....

patricia..xx

I lived in Bitterne Park until last year. I thought it was OK but pricey and not many places for rent (although rent prices are OK I seem to remember). Overall I would say it suits your requirements, and is probably much improved with the micro pub. It is walking distance to pubs the other side of the river, but restaurants probably get the bus to Portswood or town (although Portswood is walkable).

I would also look just across the river in St Denys, it also has a train station, a few good pubs hidden in the back streets and is closer to Portswood which has a fair high street and some good restaurants. I would avoid living in Portswood as it is very studenty.

I found public transport pretty rubbish, but I am used to a much bigger city where everyone uses it. Buses are infrequent and the trains, although there are local stations, have some quite bafflingly stupid timetables. Cycling routes from the places I mentioned are good though.

CCP

Thank you very much indeed everyone - you're brilliant. :T

adamg - that's a good point re driving from Portsmouth, and one that hadn't occurred to me. I've made myself a note to be sure to ask about the normal working location at the interview - it would save a lot of hassle if I could stay in Portsmouth after all.

benson1980 - thank you very much for that offer. If I do start seriously looking I may well take you up on that - thank you. :T