What’s going for it? We’re not in Kansas any more, Toto. This is north Devon, deeeeeep Devon. Far, far, far from the nearest motorway. Far, far, far from the nearest turmeric latte. You need resilience out here. Survival skills. Your role model? Tarka the Otter. His creator, author Henry Williamson, moved here from London to track the tough lives of local otters. Poor old Tarka suffers endless iniquities (the loss of his mum, the death of his first mate, the trials of being a young dad, fleeing hunts and facing up to his old foe, Deadlock the dog) but nothing can break his spirit.
The Torridge valley is a little less harsh for the 21st-century human. Think lush hills, thatched pubs and gay towns, such as Great Torrington, bedecked in bunting. But you’ll still need your wits about you: with mod cons so distant, Torridge denizens have learned to be resourceful. This is one of the UK’s hot spots for volunteering and community fundraising, keeping the likes of the Plough arts centre and cinema going strong.
The case against You’re hardly in the thick of things, economically. Are you a “metropolitan elite”? Then it’s probably not for you.
Well connected? Not really. The nearest train station is 11 miles away in Barnstaple, with slow trains to Exeter. Driving: it’s 20 minutes to the coast or Barnstaple, an hour at least to Exeter or the M5, and 40 minutes to the A30 at Okehampton.
Schools Primaries: among many “good” ones, Ofsted says, Beaford, Highampton and Black Torrington CofE are “outstanding”. Secondaries: Great Torrington and Holsworthy Community College are both “good”.
Hang out at… Huddle round the fire at the Coach & Horses in Buckland Brewer, or have a homemade bite at Browns deli in Great Torrington.
Where to buy Great Torrington is the metropolis, high above the river, and its long, straggly streets are packed with stone-fronted or whitewashed terraces, town houses and cottages. The western hinterland towards the coast is most prized, with deep valleys dotted with late-Georgian country houses, farmhouses, stone barn conversions and long, low cottages. It gets cheaper the farther up the valley, and away from civilisation, you go. Large detacheds and town houses, £350,000-£1m. Detacheds and smaller town houses, £180,000-£350,000. Semis, £150,000-£280,000. Terraces and cottages, £120,000-£250,000.
Bargain of the week Four-bedroom listed town house in Great Torrington, needs updating, £180,000, with webbers.co.uk.
From the streets
Moira Brewer “Great Torrington’s a friendly town, home to the Torrington Cavaliers and many other voluntary organisations. The Plough is a real asset.”
Phil Topham “Stunning views and 350 acres of common. A relaxed but purposeful feel.”
Janet Sharp “No big supermarkets, but we don’t need them.”
• Do you live in Great Torrington and the Torridge valley? Join the debate below.
Do you live in Kirkcaldy, Fife? Do you have a favourite haunt or pet hate? If so, email lets.move@theguardian.com by Tuesday 28 February.
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