Is St. Marychurch a Nice Place to Live?

St. Marychurch, nestled in the heart of Torquay, Devon, is a charming community that offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and village-like charm. It’s a place where you’re just as likely to enjoy a serene walk along the stunning Babbacombe Downs as you are to find yourself in the hustle and bustle of local markets. But is it a nice place to live? Well, that’s what we’re here to explore. We’ll be looking into all aspects from safety, family-friendliness, affordability, transport links, and amenities to the surrounding outdoor areas. It’s not all peaches and cream, but there’s certainly a lot to love about St. Marychurch.

Is St. Marychurch safe?

Safety is often one of the top concerns for potential movers, and St. Marychurch does present itself as a reasonably safe environment. However, like any other area, it has its fair share of issues. The local crime reports suggest that anti-social behaviour is more prevalent in certain spots, particularly near Willow Avenue. On the flip side, the residents here often describe the area as having a tight-knit feel, where neighbours look out for each other. There’s a sense of community that sometimes makes those statistics seem like just numbers on a paper rather than something to be overly concerned about.

Is St. Marychurch a nice place to live for families?

For families considering a move, St. Marychurch offers a mixed bag of opportunities and challenges.

Schools

The schooling options are decent, with several ‘Good’ rated primary schools such as Priory Roman Catholic Primary School and St Margaret’s Academy. Though there are no ‘Outstanding’ schools, the general feedback from parents is positive, valuing the friendly and supportive environment. Secondary options like The Spires College are close by, though they technically fall outside the St. Marychurch boundary, making competition for places slightly fiercer.

Parks and Playgrounds

When it comes to outdoor spaces, families are in for a treat. There are numerous parks and playgrounds scattered throughout, with Cary Play Park being a favourite among the locals. Whether it’s a picnic day or a quick jaunt with the kids, these green spaces offer a respite from the hustle.

Family Activities

St. Marychurch is also brimming with family-friendly activities. Whether you fancy a trip to the local zoo or a Sunday afternoon spent exploring the shops and cafes, there’s always something to keep the little ones entertained.

Is St. Marychurch expensive?

When it comes to property, St. Marychurch sits comfortably mid-range. The average house price is around £235,000, with terraced properties and flats being the most common purchases. Compared to some of its flashier neighbours, it’s more affordable, yet still offers decent quality of life. Renting is similarly reasonable, with a wide range of options from £850 for a two-bedroom terraced house to £1,300 for a three-bedroom cottage. The area has a distinct appeal for those looking to strike a balance between cost and comfort.

What transport links are there?

Transport is a breeze in St. Marychurch, thanks to its robust network of bus routes that connect you to the wider Torquay area and beyond. For those commuting to Exeter or Plymouth, the road connections are quite straightforward, though morning traffic can be a bit of a hurdle. The local train station isn’t too far off, offering another convenient option for travel.

What amenities are available in St. Marychurch?

If you’re a fan of local amenities, St. Marychurch doesn’t disappoint. From charming eateries like the Babbacombe Bay Cafe to bustling pubs like Boots & Laces, there’s a wide array to sample. For your everyday needs, the area has supermarkets like Lidl and Sainsbury’s Local, ensuring you’re never far from essentials. Additionally, there’s a well-established healthcare system with several doctors and pharmacies to choose from, making it a practical choice for residents.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

The outdoor offerings are perhaps one of St. Marychurch’s greatest assets. With incredible vistas from Babbacombe Downs and tranquil spots like Tessier Gardens, it’s hard not to fall in love with these surroundings. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the walks and countryside attractions are plentiful, providing endless opportunities to explore nature.

So, what’s the verdict?

St. Marychurch is an appealing option for many, especially families and those wanting a balance of coast and convenience. It’s not the cheapest or the flashiest, but it offers a solid quality of life with its safety, amenities, and connectivity. The community spirit is strong, and the outdoor spaces are a real draw for anyone who values nature.

What are the alternatives?

If St. Marychurch doesn’t quite tick all your boxes, nearby Babbacombe and Torquay offer similar vibes but with their own unique twists. Babbacombe, for instance, has a more relaxed, seaside feel, while Torquay offers a bustling town atmosphere with more nightlife and shopping options. Each comes with its own set of perks and quirks, so it’s worth considering what suits your lifestyle best.