In Seacoast area right now- feedback? what to do? (Dover: transplants, home)

[NH2008]

Hi there,

I'm in Portsmouth right now looking at Hampton Falls, Rye, Greenland, Stratham, Exeter and Newfield. Other than driving around and doing some tours with a realtor, is there anything you'd recommend I see? Anything I should do? Any input you have into raising a family in these areas?

I'm especially interested in feedback on schools, whether the communities are warm and welcoming to transplants, and what kinds of things there are to do with kids. I chose these towns because the schools are all supposed to be good and they're all within an hour of Boston.

Thanks!

- NH2008

[Annabelle]

We went through the process of searching for just the "right" town on the seacoast about 9 years ago. My kids were of middle and elementary school age and I wanted good schools, a welcoming community, a safe neighborhood, easy access to businesses and LOTS of things to do for my family. Our "fit" was Exeter. Sporting and recreation programs for the kids are abundant, we found a home in a wonderful older neighborhood and knew all our neighbors by first name within weeks, the downtown area is a 15 minute walk on streets with sidewalks, and there is easy access to Rts. 101 and 95. When you drive through each of these towns, you've just got to make a list of what the positives and negatives are and figure out which one is the best fit for you. Each town has its own personality. Go with YOUR instincts. Good luck!

[NH2008]

Thanks, Annabelle. I like Exeter a lot (actually had lunch there today at Penang and Tokyo and then stopped at the awesome Chocolatier!) But I'm hearing mixed reviews of the middle school and high school. How did you feel about it?

I really appreciate your taking the time to write!

[rmcewan]

Take a short drive down the 4 and see Durham, Madbury, Dover, and Newmarket.

[NH2008]

Thanks - had dinner at Newick's last night and it was awesome!

[Valerie C]

NH2008, wish I had seen your post earlier on the weekend, my recommendation for dinner would have been to stay right there in Portsmouth and check out The Friendly Toast. Anyway, hope you had a good weekend in NH, you certainly picked a chilly one I'm sure that your realtor(s) will have lots of good info on the schools/towns that you are considering.