Is Kentisbeare a Nice Place to Live?

Kentisbeare, a charming village nestled in the heart of Devon, offers a quaint slice of British countryside life. While it may not boast the hustle and bustle of a big city, it charms many with its laid-back lifestyle and picturesque scenery. In exploring whether Kentisbeare is a nice place to live, we’ll delve into the nitty-gritty of safety, family-friendliness, cost of living, transport links, amenities, the great outdoors, and more. Let’s see if Kentisbeare could be your next home sweet home.

Is Kentisbeare safe?

Safety is often a top priority when considering a new place to live, and Kentisbeare generally fares well in this regard. The village enjoys the perks of being a small community with a low crime rate compared to urban areas. Although some minor incidents have been reported on Bishops Rise and Priest Hill, these tend to be few and far between. Local residents often describe it as a peaceful place where you can still leave your front door unlocked – though we wouldn’t necessarily recommend testing that theory! Overall, Kentisbeare is considered a safe haven for its inhabitants, offering the kind of tranquility many people seek.

Is Kentisbeare a nice place to live for families?

Kentisbeare is often seen as a welcoming spot for families, with several activities and amenities geared towards children and parents alike.

Parks and Playgrounds

While Kentisbeare may not have sprawling parks like those found in major cities, it offers plenty of green spaces for children to play and families to picnic. The nearby Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty provides ample opportunity for weekend adventures. Families here often enjoy the community-centric events that take place throughout the year, fostering a sense of belonging.

Schools

Education-wise, Kentisbeare holds its own, especially with primary schooling. With several outstanding primary schools in close proximity, parents can rest easy knowing their young ones are getting a solid start. Schools like Abacus Belsize Primary School and Abbey Mead Primary Academy enjoy excellent reputations. However, securing a spot can occasionally be a juggling act due to catchment area constraints. While there aren’t any outstanding secondary schools in the immediate vicinity, options such as Abbey Grange Church of England Academy, rated as ‘Good’, are available a bit further afield.

Is Kentisbeare expensive?

When it comes to housing, Kentisbeare presents a varied market. Detached properties are the priciest, averaging around £775,000, while semi-detached homes are more affordable at £315,000. For those seeking something in between, terraced houses sit around the £380,000 mark. Compared to neighboring towns like Cullompton, Kentisbeare tends to lean towards the higher end, particularly with its detached properties. Rental properties, however, are less abundant, making it a bit challenging for those not in the buying market.

What transport links are there?

Kentisbeare’s rural charm comes with a few trade-offs, one of which is its transport links. While it may not be the best-connected spot in Devon, it holds its own for those who don’t mind a bit of a commute. The nearby M5 motorway is a boon for drivers, providing access to Exeter and beyond. Bus services, although not frequent, do provide a link to neighboring towns and cities, so public transport is an option, albeit a limited one.

What amenities are available in Kentisbeare?

Kentisbeare may not be a shopper’s paradise, but it offers the essentials. The village features a local shop to cover your daily needs, and for anything more, Cullompton is just a short drive away. The village pub serves as a social hub, where you’ll find locals catching up over a pint. As for healthcare, there are facilities nearby, but for more specialized services, you’d need to head to a larger town or city. Recreational activities are abundant, with local clubs and community events offering a chance to engage with fellow residents.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

Nature enthusiasts will find Kentisbeare a delightful place, with the Blackdown Hills right on the doorstep. Known for its walking trails and stunning views, it’s a perfect escape for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, the surrounding countryside caters to all levels of outdoor adventurers.

So, what’s the verdict?

Kentisbeare is a delightful option for those seeking a peaceful, family-friendly environment with a strong sense of community. While it may not offer the amenities of a larger city, it compensates with its natural beauty and charm. Housing is on the pricier side, particularly for detached homes, and transport links could be better, but for many, the village’s tranquil atmosphere outweighs those considerations.

What are the alternatives?

If Kentisbeare doesn’t quite fit the bill, nearby Cullompton might be worth considering. It offers a broader range of amenities and better transport links while retaining that small-town charm. Alternatively, for those who prefer to be closer to the hustle and bustle, Exeter provides city conveniences without being too far removed from the countryside. Each has its upsides, so it ultimately depends on what you value most in a place to call home.