Where should we go??

So we are heading to the UK in a couple of weeks and are not quite sure where we should go. We have a 6 yr old and a 4 yr old and my wife and I are certified teachers. As teachers we have the luxury of choosing an area and relocating rather than being locked in one area. We would probably do supply work until we find full time permanent positions, so really anywhere in England could be a potential home. If anyone could help us with some areas that we are considering that would be great. Any information provided on the following areas would be fantastic, or if you have been to an area that you recommend for a young family let me know.

Bristol - We like it is a big city with lots of job opportunities.
Norwich/Ipswich - Small towns with great countryside, but concerned about jobs]
Melton Mowbray- Love the fact that it is in the middle of two big cities, but have heard negative things about Leicester and Nottingham
Devon - Love the area, but again concerned we may not find work as teachers
York] - Beautiful area, and close to Leeds and countryside. Quite far to London though.

These are our top picks, but would like more information about them if anyone knows anything. Also any other areas that are nice.

I went to school and lived in city centre Leicester.  It's a larger city so it will feel like a large city but I love it (and I am not a city person in the slightest).  There is a lot going on there culturally.  Leicester is home to the National Space Centre, has quite a good arts scene, and the discovery of Richard III has revived the historical scene.  They are converting the dig site to a visitor's centre that is an easy walk from the train station and near to the Medieval Guildhall and Leicester Cathedral.  Although the castle is no longer standing (only ever Mott and Bailey, anyways), the area is home to some beautiful buildings.  Highcross Shopping Centre has a lot of stores so you'll be able to find anything you need.  There is even an American Candy Store if you're missing some American foods.  The Abbey Park fireworks are wonderful on Bonfire Night.  Leicester is also home to a thriving Indian community so the curries there are excellent.  The train from Leicester to London is only 1 1/4 hours which is very handy; the only downside is that you need to book them in advance.

The landscape of Leicestershire is lovely.  There is a lot to do in the area, a lot of quaint towns nearby.  If you do go to Melton Mobray then you must try the pork pie that bears the name.  Simply divine!  East Midlands airport flies several places in Europe as well as to Dublin which may be handy.

I've only been to Nottingham once but, again, lots of shopping and the castle is very cool.  I highly recommend a visit to Southwell which is outside of Nottingham.  Southwell Minster is fascinating and is not far from the Southwell Workhouse which really provides a fascinating insight into the less glamorous part of British history.  Birmingham is also only an hour or so away so easy to get there.

Good luck when it comes to making a decision!  I don't know what you've heard about Leicester but I loved it.

York] - Beautiful area, and close to Leeds and countryside. Quite far to London though.

If you have Leeds, you don't need London. 

If you have Leeds, you don't need London. 

You need to send that into their council! It's right up there with Dannevirke: “Take a liking to a Viking”.

From the list, I have only lived in Bristol, and I liked it a lot. Would move back given the chance.

Hi,

I'd say the first part of your evaluations will be to work out what your combined net income per month is going to be. 'Generally' speaking, the 'Teaching' profession isn't regarded as a highly paid career choice, but I do of course understand that there are more higher pay levels etc for which you currently may be at or working towards etc.

Practically though, as your move date is close, you'll need to start those net income evaluations asap, and then compare your 'lifestyle' as a family and then begin to look at areas, towns, cities etc which you feel can match what you'd like to maintain your preferred level of lifestyle choices.

Once you perhaps make a shortlist of suitable areas, towns and cities, you can look for more focused opinion and then cross reference that with independent reviews of areas etc to do with the aspects of life you want/like.

You'll hear positives and negatives for every single town and city in the UK - just like any other place on the planet - you just have to see which ones suit you better than others!

Cheers, DtM! West London & Slough, UK!

What do you me an you don't know where to go? Where is your job?  Since your wife is coming on a spouse visa you needed to have a firm job offer.