Langham Road and surroundings

[Gaby]

We are over the moon! After a long time looking for properties, driving up and down from London, we have finally had an offer accepted on a property in Langham Road.

I think we have fallen in love with the area even before we saw the house we are buying: that Californian style villas on top of the hill, wide roads, St Helen's woods just around the corner for dog walks and the fresh air.

I had to rethink at what were once priorities, like being within walking distance from the seaside and town centre, when we put an offer in and, all in all, I think we have chosen well for what we could afford.

Now I guess I am after some local information, if you know the area, like local shops for basic groceries, activities for kids (I have an 11 months old girl) and if there are any other mums living in the area for play groups etc.

Anything really that could come handy to know as a new local future resident would be greatly appreciated!

Cheers
Gaby

[Geoff]

Hi Gaby

Congratulations! I'm sure you'll love it. Nice and quiet in Langham Road and ideal for dog walks etc. The woods are really nice.

There is a playgroup in Elim Church on weekdays which isn't too far from you.

As for local shops, you're stuck with the Spa shop in Pilot Road as about the only one in walking distance from Langham Road.

There are plenty of activities at the Elphinstone Club (next to the football ground) which I would recommend joining. They have events most weekends, a gym, squash courts, snooker, and a cheep(er) bar for members

[Gaby]

Cheers Geoff,
that all sounds very good. Can't wait now!

[Monkeygirl]

Oh that's great news Gaby!

The best thing to do is to get a copy of "what's on" which is a brochure that let's you know what childrens playgroups are on every day - there are several on near you, one in The Bridge which I think is v close to you. I'll see if I can find a link to it online - it was actually someone on here that sent me it, and it has been so useful to find things to do and meet new people!

There is loads in Hastings, especially now the weather is a bit better. I go to the PALS playgroups which are really good, and there is one on every day in different locations... Lots to play with for every age and very friendly, and I'm going to try a new one tomorrow at the Bridge (got to http://www.in2play.org.uk for their groups).

There is also Alexandra park which is really lovely and has a great playground and cafe, the country park - amazing views. And last week went to Middle farm which is a working farm near Lewes which my son who is 15 months loved!

We are in st Leonard's but often go to hastings so if you wanted to meet and look around or go to a playgroup let me know as i'm still new here so keen to meet lots of mums!

I'll see if I can find you that link...

[Monkeygirl]

Oh here it's is to download (easier to find than I thought!) there will be a new one out soon, but this has been invaluable to me (especially on rainy days!)

http://www.eastsussex.gov.uk/childrenan ... wnload.htm

[Gaby]

Monkeygirl - you're a star!

Thanks so much - I have a good circle of mumsfriends here in Lewisham, some of them Italian too, and I am sure I will make some good new friends where we are moving too! The place we are buying has a very sociable space, so I am also looking forward to creating a play group at mine or swap around (especially later in winter). Definitely up for meeting up once we'll move down. I will pm you my details nearer the time x