Exploring the Best County in South England to Call Home

Each county in South England has its unique charm and attractions, making it a hotspot for relocation. When it comes to choosing a place to settle down, three counties often stand out: Dorset, Hampshire, and East Sussex. Let's dive into the beauty and benefits of living in Dorset.

Dorset: An All-Rounder Charm

According to Dorset, this county not only boasts a spectacular coastline but also the mighty New Forest. It’s a paradise for exploring the natural beauty of the West Country. However, the question arises: what happens when the weather turns gloomy, like in January, when it rains incessantly?

While Hampshire and East Sussex also offer their unique advantages, this article focuses on Dorset. Many hold Dorset in high regard for its weather and overall appeal. London, always a bustling metropolis, may be warmer due to the urban heat island effect, but compared to places beyond the M25, Dorset shines. It’s slightly less arid than Northamptonshire, a county with minimal other attractions, and a bit cooler than Slough. Yet, it stands out as an excellent all-rounder. Its summers are warm and sunny, while its winters are relatively warm and wet.

Aesthetic and Natural Beauty

Dorset is a visual feast for the eyes. The New Forest is nestled within its boundaries, and it’s home to parts of the Cranborne Chase AONB, Dorset AONB, and the Fossil Coast. The county also boasts great beaches, some ideal for swimming, while others are perfect for sailing and water sports. The absence of large cities, with Bournemouth’s sprawl being notable but not entirely imposing, ensures that much of the countryside remains undeveloped, preserving the picturesque pastures.

Lifestyle and Attractions

There is never a shortage of things to see and do in Dorset. The county is rich in historical and cultural attractions: Iron Age hill forts, castles, stone circles, and museums, especially military ones. These are complemented by stately homes, zoos, and wildlife reserves. When not occupied with these, visitors and residents can enjoy the great outdoors. The presence of such attractions ensures that there’s always something creative to keep individuals and children busy.

Transport and Infrastructure

While the coastal towns like Bournemouth have surprisingly well-connected rail systems, leaving direct trains to significant cities like Manchester via Oxford and Birmingham, Weymouth has trains to Bristol and even London. Despite the absence of a motorway, Dorset isn’t dominated by busy roads, and it has the added advantage of ferry connections to France, making it a desirable location for both locals and tourists.

Education and Economy

Education in Dorset is well-supplied, particularly with private and independent schools. Although the county has a grammar school system, the provision is limited. Crime rates are below the national average, and violent crime is particularly lower than the national statistic. However, Bournemouth has a higher level of drug use, likely due to its significant student population. As with much of the South West, private schools here often enjoy a good reputation.

Challenges and Amenities

High property prices, particularly in Poole’s Sandbanks area, are a common critique. Additionally, while much of the population is racially diverse, the whiteness of the region could be a point of contention. The county’s population is younger on average, which can put pressure on educational resources, though this trend is generally positive. Employment in Bournemouth is thriving, with sectors like finance, tech, and engineering driving the economy. Unemployment figures, however, are somewhat uneven. Despite these challenges, Dorset remains a sought-after location, offering a balance of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and economic opportunities.

So, what’s your take on living in Dorset? Would you move here, or is the allure of Hampshire or the charm of East Sussex calling?