Looking for a change - seeking feedback on Taunton

My husband (UKC) and I (USC) (we're both dual nationals now) are considering a move from Greater London to Taunton due to a job opportunity.  We're in our 50s, both of us will be working full-time. In our spare time, we love to travel and see things, local and internationally. Do quite a lot of exploring in that sense.

Don't know a thing about Taunton. What can you tell me about it in terms of amenities, appearance, friendliness, access (where is best/nearest international airport?), etc.

Thanks for any feedback!

-Denise (TeaLoverDenise@yahoo.com)

I'm from Devon so I'd take a move to Taunton over a move to Dorchester Your nearest airports are Exeter and Bristol, and both have low cost flights to international destinations. Can't tell you anything about Taunton as a place to live, personally I prefer a smaller town/village so would look to live outside and commute in. Shopping in Taunton looks ok from day trips there, with more extensive shopping in Bristol and Exeter.

Not much help to you but I had to get in my plug for Devon, just came back from a wonderful week's holiday there. The pace of life seems much slower so if you like the busyness of London that might be a consideration. I can tell you that there are many more beaches in Devon than Dorset, wonderful National Parks, beautiful villages with lovely pubs, and really great cream teas. You are also only 2.5 hours drive to Heathrow as you can utilise motorways, unlike Dorchester where you have to rely mainly on 'A' roads.

Hi Fruitgum,

Thanks so much - that's brilliant feedback.

Mr. TeaLover actually lived in Plymouth for 20+ years but never spent any time in Taunton, so we were wondering what it was like. He loves Devon - especially Dartmoor - so think this location will be high on his list.

We've been to Weymouth once, I see that Dorchester is just north of there. For some reason, it does not seem to appeal to me, although I've never even been there (Dorchester).

Agree about the smaller town/village thing. Right now we are actually in a small village, but it's still considered Greater London and the surrounding traffic etc etc is still as manic as London.

Thanks again. Very helpful.


Denise

Don't knock Dorchester, it's a lovely place! And only 2.5 hours to Heathrow, the A roads lead to the motorway

My BIL and SIL live in Taunton, it's OK but not as cozy as Dorch. Shopping is nothing special and for me there's not enough personality. Plus lots of areas are dodgy/rundown. It's like a less cool and interesting Bristol.

Different strokes

Hi historyenne 

Thanks for the feedback - I like cosy, so Dorchester sounds worth exploring.

Best

Denise x

I wasn't knocking Dorchester

What an amusing post.....I have not even made it to the UK yet but now I must research both places online.....Taunton and Dorchester. Who will win? Historyenne or Fruitgum....lol. I hope you will come back and tell us which one you choose.....now off to explore both places.

I don't know Taunton specifically but what a great location! Devon is BEAUTIFUL!

I don't know Taunton either but I live in Exeter and I absolutely love Devon. All the best :-) x