Is St Blazey a Nice Place to Live?

St Blazey, nestled in Cornwall, is a small town that often gets overshadowed by its more famous neighbours like St Austell and Par. Close to the Eden Project and the stunning Cornish coastline, it offers a unique blend of rural charm and practicality. But is it really a nice place to live? Let’s dive in and find out.

Is St Blazey safe?

When it comes to safety, St Blazey has its fair share of ups and downs. The town, like many others, experiences occasional anti-social behaviour and petty crime, predominantly in the form of vandalism and minor thefts. However, violent crime is relatively rare, which is a relief for potential residents. The local community is tight-knit and generally looks out for one another, which adds a layer of security.

Specific areas like Station Road and Middleway tend to be quieter, whereas Fore Street can get a bit rowdier, especially on weekends. The local police are quite responsive, and there have been community initiatives to improve safety, like neighbourhood watch schemes and increased patrols in known hotspots.

Is St Blazey a nice place to live for families?

For families, St Blazey has a lot to offer, though it does come with some caveats.

Primary Schools

The town has some well-regarded primary schools. Biscovey Academy is rated as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted and is a popular choice among parents. Tywardreath School and Bishop Bronescombe CofE School, both rated ‘Good’, also serve the community well. However, these schools can be competitive to get into, so its worth planning ahead if you have young children.

Secondary Schools

When it comes to secondary education, the options are a bit more limited. There are no ‘Outstanding’ rated secondary schools within St Blazey itself, which means parents might need to consider schools in nearby areas like St Austell. This can be a bit of a hassle, particularly if you don’t drive.

Family Activities

On the bright side, St Blazey has a decent amount of family-friendly activities. The local parks, including St Blazey Recreational Ground, provide ample space for kids to run around. The proximity to the Eden Project is a huge bonus, offering educational and entertaining activities for children of all ages. The local rugby and football clubs also provide excellent opportunities for kids to get involved in sports.

Is St Blazey expensive?

House prices in St Blazey are relatively affordable compared to other parts of Cornwall. The average house price here is around 200,000, which is much cheaper than in hotspots like Falmouth or Truro. Renting is also quite reasonable, with an average two-bedroom house costing around 700 per month.

However, some parts of St Blazey are pricier than others. Properties closer to Par Beach and the Eden Project tend to be more expensive due to the desirable location. If budget is a concern, areas like Luxulyan or Tywardreath offer more affordable options while still being close to St Blazey.

What transport links are there?

St Blazey is reasonably well-connected. The Par railway station is just a short drive away and offers direct services to Plymouth, Penzance, and even London Paddington. For bus services, the First Kernow buses run regular routes to St Austell and other nearby towns.

Road accessibility is pretty decent too, with the A390 running through the town, making it easy to get to the A30 for longer journeys. Commuters often drive to St Austell for work, which is about a 15-minute drive away.

What amenities are available in St Blazey?

St Blazey has a good mix of amenities. The local Co-op and Spar are convenient for daily shopping needs, while the Par Market offers a wider range of goods. For dining out, there are a few local pubs and restaurants; The Packhorse Inn and The Four Lords are popular choices.

Healthcare facilities are adequate, with a local GP surgery and a nearby pharmacy. For more comprehensive medical needs, St Austell Community Hospital is just a short drive away. Recreational activities are plentiful, with local clubs and community centres offering various activities from yoga to pottery classes.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

The outdoor scenery around St Blazey is one of its biggest selling points. The town is surrounded by picturesque countryside and is just a stone’s throw away from Par Beach, which is perfect for family outings or a peaceful walk.

The Luxulyan Valley offers beautiful walking trails and a peek into Cornwall’s industrial heritage with its historic tramways and viaducts. The Eden Project is a fantastic resource for outdoor activities and educational experiences, making it a great spot for families and nature lovers alike.

So, what’s the verdict?

St Blazey is a charming town with a lot to offer. It provides affordable living, a close-knit community, and easy access to some of Cornwall’s most stunning landscapes. However, it does have its drawbacks, such as limited secondary school options and occasional petty crime.

If youre looking for a place with a strong sense of community, good primary schools, and plenty of outdoor activities, St Blazey could be a great fit. Just be prepared for a bit of a commute if you need secondary education or work in a nearby city. Overall, its a balanced place to live with a lovely mix of pros and cons.