Living the country lifestyle is appealing to many. An idyllic vision of moving away from the city and immersing themselves into the local way of life in the countryside. Drawn to the country air and peaceful rolling hills, the West Country is a popular location and really gives you the chance to enjoy country living. 

Kivells Sales Progressor, Sharron Ruby has shared her thoughts on the benefits of moving to the country. 

Privacy and Reduced Stress 

In urban areas, silence is almost impossible to come by. This, amongst other factors such as population density and transport issues, can cause increased levels of stress making the simplest of daily tasks unenjoyable. 

One of the things most appreciated about rural living is the privacy. With fewer people around, the housing density is less and, in more rural environments, the chances are that you won’t have any immediate neighbours at all. Being surrounded by less stressed people, in turn, should produce less stress in you. 

Enjoy the Outdoors and Nature

If getting outdoors in the fresh air is your thing then there are lots of opportunities available to you, from bike riding trails to golf and even rock climbing to name a few. If you enjoy the water why not take up sailing, surfing, paddleboarding or kayaking? The coastline in this region has a large selection of beautiful golden beaches and historic fishing harbours. Fishing is also a popular sport in the area with the option of deep sea, river or lake fishing as well as many clubs and events. There is also a large selection of equine sports from hacking over the moor land, dressage and even polo on the beach. If you are looking for something a little less strenuous there is nothing quite like an afternoon walk in the peaceful countryside taking in the views and surroundings, finished off with a visit to a village country pub. 

Community Spirit

Families moving out of the city are often looking for a community way of life for their children and themselves to belong to. Villages with a local church, shop and schools are particularly appealing and can be a chance for newcomers to get involved. Communal activities offer the opportunity to meet and socialise with the locals and build a sense of community. Many small villages also hold village fairs, coffee mornings, have local clubs and even grow their own local produce to sell in the village shop. Prefer the quiet way of life? If you are looking for somewhere a little more secluded the West county has pockets of beautiful countryside that are still remote but within reach of local amenities. 

Self-sufficient 

With more outdoors space and fresh air why not turn your hand to growing your own veg and keeping a few chickens in the garden? More people are making the lifestyle choice to grow their own produce as well as an increase in foraging to gather wild foods. The countryside can be a great place to forage for free food. You will find a host of edible treats ready to eat or be transformed into jams, preserves, soups, cordials and alcoholic beverages. Not sure about what you can and can’t eat? You can sign up to local courses where you will learn about what wild food is available on the seashore, in hedgerows and woodlands and how to use these ingredients. 

Fairs, shows and festivals 

There is a wide selection of shows and event in the West Country and something to suits everyone’s taste, from food and music festivals, large agricultural county shows, arts and culture festival and flower shows. 

If you are looking for the ideal home and somewhere to enjoy the country life the West Country certain has a lot to offer. Come and pay a visit to one of our offices in Devon and Cornwall and we will use our local knowledge to help find the perfect home for you.