Is High Bickington a Nice Place to Live?

High Bickington, nestled in the heart of Devon, is a picturesque village that seems to have stepped right out of a postcard. With its charming cottages and lush countryside, it’s the sort of place that makes you dream of a slower, simpler life. However, like any place, High Bickington has its upsides and downsides. Whether you’re thinking of moving here for the peace and quiet or because you’ve been charmed by the rolling hills, it’s important to get the full picture. We’ll cover everything from safety and family-friendliness, to property prices and accessibility, so you can decide if High Bickington is the right fit for you.

Is High Bickington safe?

When it comes to safety, High Bickington earns mostly positive marks. Residents generally feel secure, and the village enjoys a lower crime rate compared to the regional average, which is reassuring for those looking to settle down in a peaceful environment. Most of the issues reported tend to be minor, with the odd spot of anti-social behaviour cropping up here and there. If you ask the locals, they’ll likely tell you they sleep with their doors unlocked, though it’s always wise to keep a level head no matter where you live.

Is High Bickington a nice place to live for families?

Families looking to make the move to High Bickington will find it to be a charming place to call home, although there are a few things to keep in mind.

Schools

High Bickington Church of England Primary Academy is the go-to school for younger children in the village, and it’s received a ‘Good’ rating. However, for secondary education, you might have to look at neighbouring areas, as there are no outstanding options right in the village. This can be a bit of a concern, especially if you’re intent on the best for your kids.

Parks and Activities

There’s plenty of green space for children to explore, and the local park is a popular spot for families, particularly on a sunny day. With Devon’s stunning countryside at your doorstep, weekend family hikes are a great way to spend time together. The village has a strong sense of community, and family activities are often organised by local groups to keep the little ones entertained.

Is High Bickington expensive?

Property prices in High Bickington can be a mixed bag. Detached homes are more on the pricey side, averaging around £325,000, while semi-detached houses are a bit more affordable at £235,000. The rental market, however, is a bit scant, which can make finding a rental property more challenging. Compared to larger towns nearby, High Bickington offers a more budget-friendly approach to peaceful country living, though be prepared to pay a premium for the village charm.

What transport links are there?

High Bickington isn’t the best-connected place, but it’s not entirely off the grid either. The village is served by a few bus routes, though these can be infrequent, so owning a car might be essential, especially for commuting purposes. The roads are well-maintained and provide decent access to the bigger towns like Barnstaple and Exeter, which is handy if you’re working in the city but want to come home to a rural retreat.

What amenities are available in High Bickington?

For a village of its size, High Bickington offers a surprising number of amenities. There’s the Community Shop, where you can pick up your daily essentials. Eating out options include a local pub or two, ideal for a cosy evening meal. While there’s no big supermarket, you can make do with the local options or head to nearby towns for a bigger shop. The village also boasts a post office and a hair salon, which adds to the convenience of living here.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

If you love the great outdoors, High Bickington will feel like a slice of paradise. Andrews Park and Moor Park are popular spots for a leisurely stroll, while the wider Devon countryside offers countless trails and breathtaking views. Whether you fancy a brisk walk or a long hike, there’s always something to do outdoors.

So, what’s the verdict?

High Bickington is a delightful village that offers a peaceful way of life, wrapped up in the charm of the Devon countryside. It’s not without its challenges – limited transport links and school options might be a concern for some – but the community spirit and natural beauty more than make up for it. If you value tranquility and don’t mind a bit of a drive to access more urban amenities, it could very well be the perfect spot for you.

What are the alternatives?

If you’re considering alternatives to High Bickington, you might look at nearby areas such as Barnstaple or Torrington. Barnstaple offers more in terms of amenities and educational options, which might be worth considering if those are high on your list. Torrington, on the other hand, provides a similar rural charm but with slightly better transport links. Each place has its personality and quirks, and it’ll ultimately come down to what best suits your needs and lifestyle.