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Whether it’s finding that new home where the kids have acres to run around in, or downsizing for a green and tranquil retirement, many of us dream of moving to the countryside and owning our own rural retreat someday.
If you’re serious about making that dream a reality, it’s important to keep your feet on the ground. While almost anyone should be able to make countryside life work for them, there are six things you need to consider before you make the leap. Life in the city and life in the countryside provide very different environments and challenges, and you should reflect on these before committing to anything.
Below, we’ve listed seven of the more important factors you’ll want to consider.
How realistic is the commute?
You might be planning on getting out of town, but if you’re still in employment, chances are you’ll still be working there – for now at least. Before you snap up a rural property, you need to think honestly about the commute. You need to reflect not just on whether the journey is possible (if you have a car, the answer to that will almost always be yes), however is it one you’re happy to commit to doing there and back, up to five days a week. Also think about how adverse weather and traffic might affect that journey, and how serious an impact that could have in your line of work.
Do you have to travel abroad regularly?
Living in the countryside can significantly impact your access to airports and flights. One of the main challenges can be the distance. Residents often find themselves facing a lengthy drive just to reach the nearest commercial airport. This can make catching flights or picking up arriving guests quite time-consuming.
You may find it difficult to manage frequent commutes, and unexpected delays or tight schedules can cause logistical headaches as you try to navigate the extra time needed for travel.
Limited public transportation options in rural areas often means relying heavily on a personal vehicle, which can add to the overall travel costs.
However, smaller airports outside of the major cities are often much easier to navigate, you can park closer to the terminal and checking in times can be far shorter than big city airports.
The necessity of a car
While the romantic notion of countryside living often includes serene walks and leisurely bike rides, the reality is that having a car is practically imperative. Transport links in rural areas can be sparse and unreliable, making it a luxury rather than a dependable option.
Everyday needs
Consider the simple act of running out of milk in the evening. In the countryside, this might mean a drive of several miles, especially if you’ve already settled in with a glass of wine. The convenience of a quick dash to the corner store isn’t quite as feasible without a vehicle.
Adapting to the rural pace
Many who transition from city life find themselves adapting to a new rhythm—planning trips carefully and maximising each journey. This shift becomes second nature over time, however, a car remains an essential tool for managing the distances involved in daily tasks.
Balancing the dream with these practical considerations will ensure a smoother transition to your countryside haven.
Where are your amenities?
If you’re currently living in the city or a large town, you’ll be accustomed to having the things you need on your doorstep. From running out of bread and being able to get more in minutes, to having take away delivery drop dinner at your door, it’s easy to take things for granted. The price to pay for all that lovely greenery is that getting what you need, when you need it, won’t be quite so easy.
Try to spend a few days reflecting on which amenities and services you rely on in your town or city life. Can you manage without them? Or come up with any potential work-arounds?
Can you get online?
Being digitally connected is part and parcel of life today. Whether it’s calling in on conference calls for work, or just streaming the latest hit series on the telly, most of us spend hours online every day without really thinking about it.
While high-speed broadband and 4G data roaming are increasingly accessible in the British countryside, many blackspots remain in more rural areas of the UK, and it could be year or two before you see any improvement.
If you know you use the net a lot, whether that’s for work or play, assess how well connected you’ll be in any of the areas you’re searching and think about how it could impact you.
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Considering a move?
Do you want to move to the countryside but don't know where to start looking? Read our guide on the best places to live in the UK to get some inspiration.
Are there any plans for the area?
If you’re moving to the countryside for some much needed peace and quiet, you’ll want to be confident that that’s exactly what you’re going to get. Merely being somewhere isolated or in the green belt doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be protected from the arrival of new properties or housing estates.
If there are permissions for new homes nearby, this is something that may be uncovered in the searches and surveys before you exchange contracts. But it’s a better idea to do your research beforehand, to avoid any disappointment.
What’s the local community like?
If you’re moving to the countryside some distance away from family and friends, it’s natural to worry about feeling a bit socially isolated. Even if you’re not going to be too far, it’ll be important you get familiar with your new neighbours, which can seem daunting if you’re moving somewhere like a village.
To ease your way into the community, consider taking the time to introduce yourself to your neighbours. This simple gesture can set a positive tone and help you build relationships from the start. One rural resident mentioned that the only time he heard of complaints about a newcomer was when they launched a major renovation project without first meeting the neighbours. This highlights the importance of blending in gradually and respecting the established community.
Just because villages are smaller certainly doesn’t mean they’re less sociable than towns and cities. In fact, many people find they prefer the closer-knit nature of rural communities. Village halls and local pubs are great places to get a feel for what the area’s like socially.
Small gestures like attending local events or simply chatting over the fence can go a long way. A welcoming smile and a friendly introduction can be your best tools for becoming part of a new rural community.
Will you still like it come winter?
On a glorious, long summer’s day, you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone who wouldn’t happily up sticks and take residence between the green hills of the British countryside. But moving house is more than a seasonal commitment.
You don’t have to love the dark and damp days of winter, but given the isolation of rural living, you’ll want to be confident you can tolerate them. It’s important to look at the bigger picture rather than allowing an idealistic image to build in your head.
If you’ve had a good think about all the above, and still feel confident that moving to the countryside is the right choice, then your next step is to start viewing properties.
Is there room for expansion?
Consider whether your the property has room for expansion. If you envision growing your family or accommodating friends who now live further away, having the space to do so is essential.
Don’t be surprised if you become the new weekend hub for family and friends, making room for everyone to enjoy your slice of countryside paradise.
Stick to your budget
Make sure you’ve got your budget in mind, factoring in all the various costs of buying a house, and are searching for something that fits your future plans – whether that’s growing your family or downsizing. It’s easy to get carried away by the beauty of rural properties, but keeping a cool head will ensure you find something that’s as perfect for you functionally as it is to look at and explore around.
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