Manchester (Derry, Londonderry, Bedford: new house, neighborhoods, elementary schools)

[Levi's Mum]

Hi there. My hubby is looking into a job in Manchester and I have seen some mixed thoughts on the city through there posting. Any thoughts from people who actually live there? We have three children (two teens and one baby). Currently we live in a VERY small town and my poor hubby has to drive a very long way to work. I am looking for something more to do, I love the small town, but hate the small town if you know what I mean.
Just trying to get some feedback. Any comments are appreciated! Thanks

[salvador.limones]

North End (basically anywhere north of Webster St) and the Smyth Rd school area are very nice - walkable neighborhoods with a mix of old and new houses, sidewalks and parks, good elementary schools, quiet but 5-10 minutes to downtown. For groceries there is a Hannaford supermarket. Livingston Park is a real gem in any season - playground, brand new pool, soccer and ball fields, tartan running track, a mile-long round-the-pond walking trail, and a skating ring/hockey field on the frozen pond in winter. If you ski, there is a small downhill skiing area right in the middle of the city.

If you want better middle/high schools, try Londonderry, Bedford or Bow - all small towns/suburbs within 15-20 minute commute.

[city boy 105]

Manchester is a beautiful city to live in. What salvador said the North End is very nice.

[pmjinnh]

(here's a copy of my note on a thread above)

There are some schools in Manchester that are better than others. There are some neighborhoods that are better than others...a LOT better.
If you can afford private schools, Derryfield is an excellent school gr 6-12.

The north end and the far southern end (near Londonderry) are nice family friendly areas to live. There are some very nice neighborhoods not too far from exit 5 in Londonderry. Airport noise can be a problem in some of the southern Manchester areas (not all) but some say that the airport traffic noises beats the sounds of downtown sirens. Some housing near the airport can get soundproofing.
Manchester, while having things to be concerned about (as does any larger city), has many good things to offer as well.

Good luck!