Is Ovingham a Nice Place to Live?

Ovingham, nestled in the heart of Northumberland and a stone’s throw away from Prudhoe, is often described as a quintessential English village. With its charming cottages, friendly locals, and proximity to the River Tyne, it certainly has its appeal. But, is it truly a nice place to live? In this article, we’ll dive into various aspects of living in Ovingham, from safety to schooling, and give you an honest assessment.

Is Ovingham safe?

When it comes to safety, Ovingham tends to get mixed reviews from locals. Many residents feel quite secure and enjoy the close-knit community feel, where everyone knows your name. However, like any place, it has its less favourable spots. For instance, North Wylam View and Cheyne Road have seen some higher crime activity. While not alarmingly high, these pockets remind us that nowhere is entirely crime-free. For the most part, though, Ovingham remains a peaceful village where neighbours still look out for each other.

Is Ovingham a nice place to live for families?

Ovingham is often regarded as a family-friendly village. With its array of local parks and playgrounds, there’s plenty of open space for children to explore and play.

Parks and Playgrounds

The area boasts several parks such as Ovingham Playing Field and the popular Prudhoe Play Area. These spaces are perfect for weekend picnics, a bit of footie, or just letting the kids run wild. During the summer, you might stumble upon local fairs and community events that are a hit with families.

Schools

When it comes to schooling, Ovingham has a decent selection of primary schools. Schools like Ovingham Church of England First School, Adderlane Academy, and St Matthew’s Catholic Primary School in Prudhoe are all well-regarded and rated as ‘Good’. However, securing a spot can sometimes be a challenge due to catchment area restrictions. On the downside, if you’re looking for ‘Outstanding’ rated schools, you might be a tad disappointed, as there aren’t any in the immediate vicinity. But overall, the local schools provide a solid education and are generally well-liked by parents.

Is Ovingham expensive?

Property prices in Ovingham lean towards the affordable side, especially when compared to the bustling cities nearby. The average house price here hovers around £195,000, with terraced properties typically selling for £190,000 and detached homes fetching up to £225,000. It’s a bit of a bargain considering the picturesque locality.

Renting, on the other hand, can be a bit trickier. Availability often falls short, and rental prices can be somewhat competitive due to the limited stock. If you’re struggling to find something within your budget, nearby areas like Prudhoe might offer more options at similar price points.

What transport links are there?

Transport-wise, Ovingham is reasonably well-connected. The village is serviced by local buses that run to nearby towns and cities, making commuting relatively straightforward. For those who drive, road links are decent, with easy access to the A69, which takes you towards Newcastle or further west.

If you rely on public transport, the Ovingham train station is a handy asset. Although not bustling with frequent services, it offers connections to Newcastle and Hexham, making it a convenient choice for commuters and day-trippers alike.

What amenities are available in Ovingham?

Ovingham may be small, but it doesn’t skimp on amenities. The village has a quaint selection of shops, including the ever-reliable Ovingham Village Store for your day-to-day needs. For a more substantial grocery run, you might need to head over to Prudhoe, which offers larger supermarkets.

Dining options are varied, with cosy cafes like the Tyne Riverside cafe offering delicious bites and good coffee. If you’re after a pint, the White Swan and Adam & Eve are popular local watering holes. For something a bit different, head to Shenanigans, famous for its rum selection.

On the fitness front, there’s at least one fitness centre in the village, catering to the exercise enthusiasts. As for healthcare, local facilities and GP practices in nearby Prudhoe ensure that medical help is never too far away.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

One of Ovingham’s standout features is its stunning natural surroundings. The nearby Prudhoe Riverside Park offers lovely river walks and is a great spot for some fresh air. For those who love a bit of countryside adventure, Whittle Dene and The Spetchells are fantastic spots for hiking and exploring. The Amphitheatre is another hidden gem worth checking out.

So, what’s the verdict?

Ovingham is undoubtedly charming. It offers a peaceful, community-centric lifestyle with reasonable property prices and decent amenities. Families will appreciate the parks and good schools, although options for ‘Outstanding’ institutions are lacking. The crime rates, while present, are not excessively concerning but worth keeping an eye on. Transport links are adequate, making commuting feasible. The natural beauty around Ovingham is a huge plus, offering endless outdoor activities.

What are the alternatives?

If Ovingham doesn’t quite tick all your boxes, nearby Prudhoe is worth considering. It offers a busier atmosphere with more amenities and slightly better transport links. Alternatively, Wylam is another neighbouring village that combines charm with a bit more hustle and bustle. Each area has its unique appeal, and the best choice ultimately depends on what you’re looking for in your new home.