If you are looking to move to a new home, you probably have your mind made up over whether you want to live in an urban area or a rural one. And if you’re a city dweller, you probably have no interest in moving to the countryside. After all, you’re going to be far away from all shops and entertainment, the transport links are rubbish, and you’ll probably have to learn how to deal with spiders in your home and how to stop foxes pooping in gardens.
But this isn’t the reality at all. It’s perfectly possible to live in the beautiful English countryside while still leading an exciting, social and busy lifestyle. More and more people are leaving the fast pace of city living to move to more peaceful areas of the country.
If you are still undecided, here are five fantastic reasons to live in the countryside.
Less pollution
If you live in London or another big city, you probably don’t notice how bad the air quality is until you leave the city for the countryside. By moving to a rural area, your health will immediately benefit from the drastic drop in air pollution. Your respiratory system will thank you for it, and you’ll no longer have to walk to work while inhaling the exhaust fumes from cars and lorries. The skies will be clearer and rivers purer, and you’ll sleep even more soundly each night due to the vast difference in noise pollution.
Natural beauty
The United Kingdom is home to some of the most gorgeous natural landscapes on Earth, from the rolling green hills of the Lake District to the heather-strewn moorland of the Peak District to the peaceful tranquillity of the Norfolk Broads. If you love the outdoors, you will have no shortage of it in the countryside. All you need to do is walk out your front door and explore the myriad of quiet lanes, footpaths and remote trails right on your doorstep.
Cheaper prices
Everything is cheaper in the countryside, from house prices to petrol to the costs at your local supermarket. Living in the big city comes at a price, but in rural areas, you can buy an attractive, spacious property with a bigger garden for a fraction of the price. When you move to the country, your bank balance will immediately notice the benefit.
Slower pace of life
Living in the city can be stressful. Crowded public transport, rush hour traffic, and the high-pressured working culture lead many people to suffer from anxiety and worry. Things are different in the countryside, and you can take a step back, breathe in some fresh air, and just relax. Sometimes the key to improving your quality of life is simply doing less.
Community
When you live in a small town or village, you will be instantly amazed by the sense of community all around you. Unlike in London, people say good morning to each other on the street and look out for their neighbours. When you move, you will be instantly welcomed by your local community and become part of its traditions and lifestyles.
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