What would you do - where shall I move to?

Taucher

People have mentioned Bristol before and although it is a fantastic city, it is quickly becoming unaffordable. I am from here originally and moved back after 15 years in London. LOADS of people are moving to Bristol from London and are happy to pay over the odds for a 3 bed Victorian terrace when in London they could only afford a one bed in zone 5 - so prices, and smugness, are shooting up here.

I also lived in Newcastle for one year and I love the place so I would recommend living there. The coast is nearby too and that's beautiful.

TimeForChange2015

My immediate goal is saving as much money as possible. I want to buy somewhere to live - but am leaning towards first following a few dreams and experiencing life abroad. So, I've decided it might be worth making extra compromises when I leave London. I can save more money by house-sharing, or alternatively I've noticed some of the areas without good transport have cheaper rents. I'd be isolated but it wouldn't be forever.

Btw, I do feel limited as a non-driver and I'd like the freedom driving offers. Sadly I was absolutely dreadful when I tried to learn and decided it wasn't for me. I was only 17 and haven't ruled out trying again one day (my aunt was in her 50s when she took her test).

I'm going to initially focus on towns and cities with reasonable transport, but as I work from home I won't rule out other areas.

I've decided to visit Manchester, Newcastle, and Glasgow over the next few weeks.

Another place I'm thinking of was suggested earlier in this thread - Stroud. I've had a brief look online and there are flats to rent at very reasonable prices. Don't know much about it but a brief google seems to suggest there's an arty bohemian vibe there, which appeals. Anyone know more about Stroud?

Chocforever

Although I can see the merits of traditional house shares in order to meet new people, I would consider renting a room from an owner occupier/couple (e.g. through spareroom . co. uk). In my home town, for the budget you have, you could rent a room, or even a studio, in a very nice house and initially book as a holiday rental so there would be no contract tie-in. And I don't live in an area where accommodation is normally very cheap (South Warks).

One of my friends has gone into a house share at the grand age of 42 and it works pretty well but it is tiresome that the kitchen is left in a mess and limited fridge space etc. She is living with under 25s and she does feel the age difference. Also, if you work at home, you may prefer somewhere quiet.

If you don't drive, look at areas where there are university students if you want to rely on a bus after 7pm.