Is Collaton St. Mary a Nice Place to Live?

Collaton St. Mary is a quaint little village nestled in the delightful expanse of Paignton, Devon. Its charm lies in the rolling Devonshire hills and its proximity to both the coast and the countryside. Known for its peaceful atmosphere, it’s a place that has its fair share of admirers and critics alike. Some folks rave about the serene lifestyle, while others point to a lack of certain facilities and services as a bit of a drawback. But, like any place, it has its own unique character and vibe that might just suit you perfectly—or not. Let’s delve deeper into what it’s really like to live in Collaton St. Mary.

Is Collaton St. Mary safe?

Safety is one of those things that can really make or break an area for potential residents. In Collaton St. Mary, the general consensus among locals is that it’s relatively safe. That said, like any area, it does have its moments. Crime data suggests that the majority of issues tend to occur near Totnes Road and Two Acre Close. However, these incidents are relatively low-key and don’t seem to impact daily life significantly. Most residents feel comfortable walking around and enjoy a sense of community that can sometimes act as a deterrent to crime.

Is Collaton St. Mary a nice place to live for families?

When it comes to family life, Collaton St. Mary offers a mixed bag of options.

Parks and Playgrounds

The village has a few welcoming green spaces perfect for young ones to frolic in. The nearby Westerland Valley Country Park is a fantastic spot for a family picnic or a leisurely walk. Plus, there’s John Paul 2nd Park, which is quite popular amongst the locals for a quick afternoon outing.

Schools

Now, schools are a bit of a tricky one. The area has Kings Ash Academy and Roselands Primary School, both rated as ‘Good’ by Ofsted, but if you’re after an ‘Outstanding’ ranked school, you might have to look a bit further afield. Catchment areas can be a problem, so it’s worth checking which schools you’ll be eligible for before settling in.

Is Collaton St. Mary expensive?

Property prices here are quite reasonable compared to other parts of Devon. Over the last year, the average price for homes was £275,000. Semi-detached properties are the most common, selling for around £280,000. If you’re after something a bit more spacious, detached homes are available for about £385,000. For those looking at rentals, a two-bedroom house might set you back around £900.

Some areas within Collaton St. Mary are more sought after than others, often because of their proximity to amenities or the views. However, if you’re open to exploring a bit, you might find better deals in nearby Totnes or Brixham, which also offer their own unique charms.

What transport links are there?

Transport-wise, Collaton St. Mary is fairly well-connected. There are regular buses that run through the village, offering connections to Paignton and beyond. If you fancy driving, the road links will take you across Devon quite conveniently. For those who need to commute to larger cities, you’ll find that the nearby rail stations in Paignton provide decent services to Exeter and even further afield.

What amenities are available in Collaton St. Mary?

In terms of amenities, Collaton St. Mary offers a nice balance of essential services and leisurely pursuits. There’s a SPAR for your everyday necessities and a larger Asda in Paignton for more extensive shopping trips. Dining options vary from fast food to more sit-down affairs, like Harleys American Bar and Grill. Pubs are around too, with The Parkers Arms being a local favourite for a pint and a chat.

For fitness enthusiasts, several gyms and a yoga studio cater to various wellness needs. A post office and a couple of hair salons ensure that the basics are well-covered.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

The outdoor spaces around Collaton St. Mary are quite delightful, with several parks and countryside walks at your disposal. The scenic Westerland Valley Country Park offers trails and open spaces for those who appreciate natural beauty. Plus, the South Devon coast isn’t far either, providing perfect day-trip destinations for beach lovers or those who simply want a change of scenery.

So, what’s the verdict?

In summary, Collaton St. Mary is a lovely village that works well for those looking for a quieter lifestyle. It offers a reasonable property market, decent amenities, and good connectivity while being close to both coast and countryside. However, its lack of outstanding schools and a limited number of local amenities might not suit everyone.

What are the alternatives?

If Collaton St. Mary doesn’t tick all your boxes, nearby areas like Brixham and Totnes might be worth a look. Brixham offers a bustling harbour town vibe, while Totnes is known for its artistic community and independent shops. Both alternatives have their own pros and cons, but they might just offer what you’re seeking that Collaton St. Mary doesn’t.