Is Lustleigh a Nice Place to Live?

Ah, Lustleigh! Nestled in the heart of Devon, this quaint little village often sounds like something out of a storybook with its picturesque landscape and charming cottages. But what is it really like to live there? Is Lustleigh as idyllic as it seems? Well, let’s take a closer look and see if it’s truly the perfect spot for you to call home. From safety to family-friendliness, cost of living, and more, we’ll cover the essential bits and bobs one needs to consider before making such a life-changing decision. Let’s dive in!

Is Lustleigh safe?

When it comes to safety, Lustleigh does quite well compared to the regional average. The village’s remote and quiet nature generally means that crime is not much of a concern. Most folks here would tell you it’s the kind of place where you can leave your door unlocked and not bat an eyelid. However, like any place, it’s not entirely crime-free. There have been a few incidents reported near the sports area and along the A382. But on the whole, residents feel quite safe and secure in their homes, which is pretty comforting.

Is Lustleigh a nice place to live for families?

Parks and Playgrounds

Families with kids will likely find Lustleigh quite endearing. Despite its size, the village has a welcoming community vibe that makes it a lovely spot for raising children. The Lustleigh Orchard is a popular haunt for families, where kids can run around freely and enjoy the great outdoors. It’s a small village, so while it doesn’t have a sprawling park, the surrounding countryside more than makes up for it.

Family Activities

There’s a lovely annual tradition here called the Lustleigh May Day, where families gather for the maypole dancing and enjoy a picnic. If your family enjoys exploring, then the nearby East Dartmoor Woods & Heaths National Nature Reserve offers a wonderful chance to connect with nature.

Schools

Schooling can be a bit of a mixed bag, and it’s worth noting that there aren’t any outstanding-rated primary or secondary schools right in Lustleigh. This might mean a bit of a commute for some families, and catchment areas could be a sticking point. That said, the schools nearby still offer a good education, but it might require a bit more planning on the parents’ part.

Is Lustleigh expensive?

Now, onto the nitty-gritty of costs. Living in a postcard-perfect village like Lustleigh certainly comes at a price. The average house price here is a whopping £740,000, with detached properties fetching around £905,000. If you’re on a tighter budget, you might look at semi-detached homes, which are much cheaper at £375,000. Interestingly, terraced ones are even lower at £290,000. As you can see, there’s a significant range, so it really depends on what you’re looking for.

Rental properties are as scarce as hen’s teeth, so if you’re looking to rent, it might take some time to find the right place. Comparing to nearby areas, Bovey Tracey or Moretonhampstead might offer more affordable options or more rental opportunities, but then you’d miss out on Lustleigh’s unique charm.

What transport links are there?

Transport links in Lustleigh are decent but not extensive. The village is connected to the A382, making it accessible by road, but public transport options are limited. There’s no train station, so you’ll need to rely on buses for commuting, which might not be ideal for everyone. If you’re driving, Newton Abbot is the closest main town and offers a broader range of transport connections, including trains to larger cities.

What amenities are available in Lustleigh?

For a small village, Lustleigh has its fair share of amenities. There’s a cozy pub, The Cleave, where locals often gather for a pint. You’ll also find a couple of charming tea rooms that are a hit with both locals and visitors. However, the village lacks a supermarket, so for your weekly shop, a trip to nearby Bovey Tracey might be necessary.

Healthcare facilities in Lustleigh are minimal, so for doctor’s appointments or more serious healthcare needs, residents generally head to Bovey Tracey or Newton Abbot. But for day-to-day essentials, the local post office is handy.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

Lustleigh is surrounded by some absolutely stunning outdoor spaces, a huge draw for nature lovers. The Lustleigh Orchard is a gem, offering a serene spot for picnics and strolls. The village’s location within Dartmoor National Park means you’re never far from breathtaking moorland scenery and outdoor adventures. Whether it’s hiking, cycling, or just a leisurely walk, the options are plentiful and beautiful.

So, what’s the verdict?

All in all, Lustleigh offers a peaceful, picturesque lifestyle that’s hard to beat if you’re after the quintessential English village experience. It’s safe, family-friendly, and surrounded by stunning natural beauty. However, its remote nature means some compromises on amenities, schooling options, and transport links. It’s an excellent choice if you’re seeking tranquility and don’t mind a bit of travel for certain services.

What are the alternatives?

If Lustleigh isn’t quite the right fit, nearby Bovey Tracey offers more comprehensive amenities and better transport connections. Moretonhampstead is another option, still within the Dartmoor area, but with a slightly different community vibe and potentially more affordable housing options. Each has its own unique charm, so it’s worth exploring to see which village or town suits your needs best.