Why I'm leaving Bristol after 10 years
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- Опубликовано: 8 авг 2022
- It's time for a new adventure: I talk about why I'm leaving Bristol after 10 years of making music here, reveal the terrible mistake I made four months ago, and muse on where I'm going next...
In this video I mention the "if it's not a f£&% yes, it's a no" principle introduced to me by this article: markmanson.net/fuck-yes
Its author Mark Manson has an excellent RUclips channel here / markmansonauthor
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🎶 Welcome to my channel! 🎶
Hi! I'm Laura aka Penfriend - a solo artist, music producer, songwriter, filmmaker and podcaster living in Bristol, UK.
My channel is all about encouraging your creative journey through sharing my own, and whether you want to make your own stuff or just want to see how I make mine, you're very welcome here.
➡️ I’ve been making music for more than 25 years and running my own independent label since 2009. I've learned so much about the music industry, songwriting, productivity and general creativity that I'm excited to share with you on this channel.
I share weekly videos on the creative process, personal development, and building a creative career outside of the old structures.
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Cornwall always loved the sea and coastal path walking
In my teens / early 20s I lived and worked across the UK, Europe, North Africa & Central America. Then I married and stayed in my home town of Edinburgh for 25 years. Then my wife died and in the last three years I've went from Edinburgh to Bute to East Lothian and, currently, Ayrshire. Haven't decided yet where to move next Spring.
I'm so sorry for your loss, that must be unimaginably hard. I hope you find your next place and have the best time there. Thanks for watching and for sharing your story xo
Exeter is beautiful, lots of things going on but near the sea and swimming, lovely Dartmoor and lots of fresh air. It made me feel more free and that I could breathe after leaving Bristol.
I'm so glad it's all working out for you!!
I live up in Moray in Scotland, it's absolutely beautiful, the main city is Elgin and there are lots of little towns and villages close by, the Speyside countryside is stunning, and it's very close to the sea.
That sounds wonderful, David!
Falkirk, first came here from Edinburgh in 1995. Had a couple of years in Linerick but came back. I love my house, it is truly home, I love the town, my friends and the community. They will take me out of this house for the last time in my box I hope.
May you have many, many years of loving your house, Ian :)
South East Wales here (just outside of Pontypool). Somerset born and bred.
Moved here 8 years ago and no regrets. You get more for your money here. 20 minutes from the Severn Bridge (so keeping up with your Bristol friends is still on!)
40 minutes from Cardiff.
Thriving music scene.
Never looking back 🙂
Good for you, Ed! Sounds fantastic.
Leicester. It’s big enough for the amenities you want and small enough to get out. It’s easy to get to Nottingham or Brum for gigs.
I moved from Dundee in Scotland to York in England. I had only ever visited York for a week on a holiday. I moved simply to find work as there simply wasn't any in Dundee. I've now lived longer in York than I loved in Dundee, despite being born there.
I love York, so picturesque...but the city centre is progressively becomming fuller and fuller with places to eat & drink and beauty salons...and fewer and fewer shops...I don't know how they all survive!
We left London 17 years and moved to Glasgow. Amazing music scene, the greatest live venue in the world (The Barras), culture, food and vibe. It's not all deep fried and Rab C Nesbit. We are 1 hour from beach, Edinburgh and the Highlands. No plans to move.
BIG Glasgow fan here yep!
@@Penfriendrocks we met in the Hug & Pint and loved your set.
I’m up here in Hebden Bridge… the Happy Valley… Calderfornia… it’s lovely - surrounded by green places and hills, not far from big cities (Manchester, Bradford and Leeds) and great towns (Halifax and Huddersfield). Todmorden also very hot right now!
Come back to London, it’s the actual best place. I’ve lived in SW London all my life and can’t see us ever leaving.
We can't afford it unfortunately!!
Lancing, West Sussex. Close to Worthing. Not far from Brighton. I live 1 minute from the beach and a 5 min drive from the South Downs. It’s a lovely place.
Good luck with everything!
Thank you!
After 38 years of living in London we moved to Otley in West Yorkshire, people thought we were mad but we made good friends and enjoyed living in a small market town on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Four weeks ago we moved to Whitley Bay, I love it! I’d always wanted to live near the sea. It’s beautiful, miles of sandy beaches, indie cinema, bakeries, a gig venue, a really great community feel. On the metro to Newcastle for galleries, more gigs and city stuff. Good luck with your move 😊
Oh wow, congratulations on your move!! I went to Whitley Bay as a little kid (we lived in Darlington for a few years), I remember it being absolutely glorious.
Good luck with your new adventure and may you find that inner peace of mind that your soul so loudly yearning.
I moved from Bristol to Cardiff (via thornbury and Abergavenny) and can definitely say that of all the places I’ve lived, Cardiff is my favourite. Grew up in the north west of Lancashire and have lived in York, London (also late teens), Southampton, Cheltenham, lots of places in Bristol and now Cardiff. 35 places in 42 years and hopefully will only have one more tops (later life by the sea is the plan!). Can’t recommend Cardiff enough, it’s got everything you could wish for and the people are just amazing!! 🏴🏴
You're right, Cardiff is fantastic! I've never met someone who's moved more than me so kudos to you, and I'm so glad you found somewhere you love xo
live in coalville. if you dont drive its awfull. live in a council flat next to a grave yard its wonderful.
spent much the 90s homeless. this is the first place ive ever lived for more then a year or so.
being autistic its hard to make friends at any time. including my wife i have maybe 2? and im not sure about one of them.
I live in Swindon for my sins!
Born and lived in Shoreham-by-sea, Sussex untill I was 16.
Then moved to Lancing,then worthing,then moved to Jersey 🇯🇪 in 1986.
To cut long story short, after a disastrous ten year marriage and stint of singleton, along came the Internet and Friends Reunited...........
Found my 1st girlfriend who I met in 1979 on a holiday in I.O.M, and after she visited me in Jersey I came back
to dull Swindon ,and have now been married 17 years .
You can find happiness eventually ❤️
What a heartwarming story! I'm so glad you found your person, and your place.
Currently, a ground floor flat in Sunny West London (Acton), which has been great for the past 10 years with a lot of independent businesses starting up here there and everywhere and with access to all the usual Central London stuff (venues, museums etc).
Prior to that it was 10 years in Brighton, also great for similar reasons plus the sea and the South Downs.
No reason to stay in one place though (I had 10 years at sea before settling down in Brighton).
Good Luck with wherever you decide to go.
Thank you, Black Rod!
Hi there! Kosso here! I can empathise.
I came back here about ten years ago. It's my fourth time living here! I hadn't been here in about 16 years or so, and one evening while visiting here to see a mate's band at the Fleece, I walked over Bristol Bridge and around the harbourside and thought to myself "F*ck me, I'd forgotten how nice this place is!". I moved back within a couple of weeks. Started renting, then got my own place, right in the centre, and have been mostly loving it. Apart from noisy seagulls at 5am. They can do one! :)
BUT... recently, and for some time now, possibly to do with the whole lockdown thing, I've been feeling like I'm not "living" in Bristol. I'm just "existing" in Bristol.
I love the place and the people. And even all the students (as I was one here once), but I dunno, maybe it's got something to do with the place being totally overrun by them around here, or possibly working from home alone for so long, but something's definitely starting to feel amiss. Maybe it's because I've moved around in my life so much too? Part of getting my own place here was to try and 'plant a flag' somewhere and call it home.
But then, I remember, I've left this place a few times before, usually when opportunity knocked elsewhere, so it probably wouldn't be a bad idea to go on an adventure again.
Trouble is, I can't do that quite yet until they sort out what the heck is going on with the cladding issue I'm trapped in in the block of flats! Argh! One day!!
GOOD LUCK!! :)
Thank you so much! Fingers crossed for your next adventures to become possible soon x
Sorry to hear you are leaving Bristol, Laura. If you want somewhere else to live, it has to be Cornwall. I've lived here all my life, and with stunning coastline, why would you want to move anywhere else?
I've always lived in Newcastle. I love this city and I've never really felt the need to move anywhere else. It's a city full of history and culture. Not too big, not too small. Lots of great music venues, and a local music scene where people are wonderfully supportive of each other. Theatres, galleries, museums. Many fantastic restaurants, pubs and cafes. Lots of green spaces - Jesmond Dene, the Town Moor, Heaton Park etc. You can head out of town, visit the coast or go into the beauty of Northumberland - visit Hadrians Wall, Holy Island, Alnwick, Durham and more. Good luck with your move Laura. Wherever you end up, I hope it becomes a home that you can all love.
Wish I would have known people in Newcastle, when I was there in 2019 for the World Transplant Games
Hi Laura. I've moved from Birmingham to Malmesbury and now live in Devizes, all in the last three years. Good luck for your move and best wishes for the future
I live in Cheshire...Always lived here. Good Rail links to the rest of the Country. I'm doing the opposite and renovating my old terraced house with some major building work! Good luck Laura on your house hunting and the move!
Good luck with it the search and subsequent move Laura.
I'm glad we moved recently it was the right thing for us. Still in Norfolk but in a bustling but small market town (Wymondham) surrounded very nearby by fields and countryside possibly the most varied and beautiful East Anglian coastline and its definitely a mecca for creatives. Norwich just a cycle ride away. I feel inspired once more after a tough couple of years. Restorative.
Sometimes a place plays a part in your life until it's time for the next chapter elsewhere. If it feels right, it is right.
I live In Colchester, a half hour from the sea or a couple of hours from the north Norfolk coast if you head north. Whatever you decide my best wishes to you. I hope you find the right place with that all important creative space! Kind regards Mark
Leeds here. Moved back here from the south west after living there for six years. Still miss easy access to Bristol and London, but this is my place. You have to find the right place for you, but Leeds is extremely creative, and I was amazed at its transformation, creatively, when I moved back. Good luck with your next move, and I hope you find the creative space you need.
I was born in Hertfordshire, moved to Norfolk age 10, and then relocated with my other half to (near) Nottingham in our early/mid 20s. We have been in Nottingham ever since and have never looked back. We LOVE it here. Notts itself is a great city - varied, vibrant, loads of good food/drink, creative spaces, music, community, good transport and so on. It's a great place in its own right, and many of the surrounding areas / towns (we lived in Beeston for a long time, which is a big cosmopolitan town in its own right) are also great. I feel a much stronger connection to here than any of the other places I've lived, despite not being a native.
I'm so glad you found your place :)
I wish you and your partner good luck in your move Laura. I know it won’t be easy but I know you will both prevail.
Thanks so much - we're right in the "will this ever actually happen" phase, so fingers crossed!
Adoo... I live in Perton, modern village 5 miles west of Wolverhampton. In my experience Shropshire is the best place I have found to live in. Its off the national radar so the pretty towns it has are not too busy if you know what I mean. The best of Shropshire is Shrewsbury, Ludlow and Bridgnorth. Ironbridge is lovely but needs pubs with more character inside. Newport is good Shropshire Town in that if is a small town but loads of independent traders on there busy high St, loads of decent pubs, a community feel, and quite a few cultural events going on too. Shrewsbury is gorgeous, has loads of pubs, third highest national density of pubs per km, lovely park, river and lots of events happening. It's large so it comes with its own problems, anti social behaviour, drug use etc. But we always say if we win the lottery we'll buy a house down Devon and one in the Kingsland area if Shrewsbury. Ludlow is beautiful, but to go from Bristol to Ludlow would be a bigger leap than Shrewsbury, and shrew has the train links to brum etc that may be useful to a creative. We go to Ludlow a lot, we do a lovely town river walk, but I'm not too sure about living there, as opposed to Shrewsbury etc. Either way we love love love Shropshire and funnily enough I was talking yesterday to one of the bosses from historic England (he's working on the fkaxmill building project, check it out), he lives in Bristol. I said isn't Bristol really creative and great?? He said yes it has got that but he said theres a lot of the opposite of tart too and he spoke of how positive his experience had been in Shrewsbury with the people he'd come into contact with and there welcoming and positive nature, and he said he comes up against a lot of the opposite in Bristol. My pal from a village by me did live in Bristol for a bit and loved it( he's a big time going out drinking partying kinda guy), he's moved to Newport now as they had kids and moved too be close to grandparents. He loves loves Newport, the pubs life, events, community etc etc. I used to think it's a shame Shropshire is off the national radar but I know think that's part of its beauty, as opposed to say York etc. I'm curious to know where your thinking of moving too? Good luck with it.
Thank you! I did spend a bit of time on Zoopla wondering why Telford was so affordable - you're near to so much great countryside in that part of the world as well.
Good luck! I live in Bristol, closer in to the city than you, and despite having lived in other places (when I was at university, for instance) nowhere else has ever really been home.
Ok so first of all, best of everything on your forthcoming move! May your new home be every bit as brilliant and inspiring as you deserve!
And second of all, mood. I've been in Oxford for about 8 years now (what even is time???) and Davey's been here since uni back in the 90s, and I love it, and I love our neighbourhood so much, but GOOD GOD it's also expensive as all heck, we'll never be able to afford to own our home here on our meagre actually-pretty-okay-for-anywhere-else-in-the-country income, and I've just been feeling... done about that for a while now. Fun! Moving would likely be a tricky proposition for us for various reasons I won't fill your comments section with, but suffice it to say, glad to hear you're taking that gut feeling and turning it into a positive change!
Oxford is gorgeous but yep, wayyyyy out of our price range. And renting after owning doesn't seem like a smart move for us at the moment. But I'd love to visit again some time soon! I'm glad you're both enjoying it there.
Wow that's huge! All the best with finding your next home. We currently live near Oxford. Nice small city with good links to London. Would be great to have you and Tim as neighbours, but looks like you are going further afield, all the best with wherever you land!
Thanks so much, Neil, we'd be excellent neighbours (I think). And I love Oxford, and have some friends there. Argh, so many options!!
I live in a village in West Leicestershire. I love it. Although I have access to woodland, countryside and space to walk and clear my head with my dog, I'm also smack bang in the middle of the country, so I can pretty easily get to my favourite cities and other great places within a few hours. 🥰
Hey Laura
I'm sorry you're leaving but glad you're going on a new adventure together and that it feels right to go.
Bristol was a great place to be for me in my 20's and 30's being part of various vibrant music scenes, and many of those early relationships were strong enough to endure long periods of 'dissappearance' when many of us had kids and/or moved into houses in different parts of the city. We've always been lucky with our neighbours too which has been a blessing, especially during lockdown when we really needed each-other.
I hope you find a fantastic new place close to nature as from your posts it feels like this has become more important to you (as it has myself too!).
I'm sure wherever you go you will make that space and that community far richer for your presence and wish you only joy, light and inspiration in your move.
Please stay in touch, and keep believing in the beautiful, original things you make in your work
Dan XXX
Dan, your words are so lovely and I really appreciate them. Can I come and visit the studio some time soon? It would be great to get lunch or something xo
Good luck and all the best for the future. In the words of crowded house "anywhere you go, always take the weather with you". Edinburgh is a wonderful place to live, Birmingham and its black country environs is another. Brighton if you want access to London but also the seaside.
I live in the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges, east of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Being near either the hills or the sea has always been a priority. All the best for the move!
Hills or sea definitely a priority for this move! I'm glad you found somewhere you love.
Well, I'm from and live in Buenos Aires, Argentina. I like it where I live but mainly because I enjoy my job, have a great network of friends and I love my music-making room (can't really be called a "studio", that'd be a bit too much haha) I did live in Chichester for a year and absolutely adored the place. But again, I had amazing friends, I was in love with someone, and enjoyed greatly studying music there. I guess, for me, those things make a home town. Best of luck in your future endeavors! :) Ulises.
Hey Ulises, thanks for this comment! I visited Buenos Aires in 2011 and LOVED IT. Great city. I think people are what make a place, for sure - and hopefully in the next place I can meet some who make that place good for me (and I can do the same for them).
Go with your heart, you'll always have the love & support of your fans who I'm sure care about you more than you think
That's a lovely thing to say, thank you Paul xo
So, where am I?
Oh yeah, about 40mins [By train] south of Sydney, which is 10-15 mins [By car] from the beach & a National park. The local shops are 3 x city block Westfield, are a 5 min walk. Oh and 40 mins to an international airport. It's very much suburbia and more specialised Photography and Music gear are less available.
So, if Tim and yourself move south again, I will be happy to show you around! 😊
Happy & safe move, where I look forward to seeing your new abode/studio, along with the area its places!
Thank you! I don't see us ever moving to Australia, Dave, but I might visit again one day who knows :) It sounds lovely where you live.
@@Penfriendrocks most welcome and thought it might not be on your radar! 😊
But more than happy to be a tour guide!
I live in North Manchester and 20 minute bus ride from the city centre where I manage to see two or three gigs a week. Shane xxx
I live in Leiden, The Netherlands. After growing up in California, I moved to Prague at the age of 35. Five years later moved to Leiden with best beloved. Five years after that we took possession of this house. Each of the last three places have been the places I've lived the longest in my life. 10 years in this house have been wonderful and we don't plan on moving any time soon.
Hearty good luck and best wishes for the move!
Thanks, Joe!
Good luck with the move, Laura! (from the Northeast, which is lovely...)
So I hear! :)
We left London in 2020 and it was the best decision ever. I spent years ignoring that voice, but once I realised the (in hindsight, totally obvious) place we should move to, everything just clicked. It's hard when you're already happy and you've got nice friends and you like where you live (although like you, we hardly ever actually left our little London village to go into town). But something still just wasn't right, and I'm so glad we finally made the move. Good luck with your new adventure! Excited to hear where you're heading X
I'm so pleased for you all! (and I actually had a little online look at houses where you are, because Alex was writing about loving being near the sea...) We have to go with how we feel, for sure, and now we're taking steps to find our next place everything here feels a lot more manageable. I probably stayed in London a couple of years too long so I'm glad I'm not dragging out time here.
Great Torrington in Devon. Why? Loads of music and musicians and The Plough Arts Centre. Also, lovely countryside and the sea nearby.
Hello Pen Friend. I just found you on RUclips for the first time, not even a month ago, and I enjoyed your interviews and your music so much!!! I am your fan living in High Point, NC, USA. Where ever you land I hope you and yours will be very happy! You only go round once, AND LIFE IS NOT A DRESS REHEARSAL OR DO OVER! Be safe and keep in touch. Laura carry on.............................
Hey Ingram, thanks so much for finding me and for saying hello!!
I could really relate to this. Mary Beth and I left jobs in Florida to move to Montana six years ago, and then we had a similar reboot last year, moving cross-country again, this time to Massachusetts. Like you and Tim, our latest move was to a place where we knew NO ONE. While it didn't involve a job change for me, it's been a huge lifestyle shift. It's working out well so far. i can't say it's been easy, but it's absolutely been worthwhile. Sounds like you're doing the exact right thing.
Thank you! I'm so glad you and Mary Beth followed your hearts too xo
Good luck with the move, I live Bedfordshire way and it’s cool, I guess In some ways some good life stuffs happened over the years here, which from a fate perspective makes me want to hang around if that makes sense.
Home is where the heart is.
I’ve alway fancied Boston, USA myself if ever I could move abroad, so many decent bands there and it seem a nice vibe. I’m sure you’ll make the right choice. x
I *love* Boston, good call :)
Bristol was my dream place to live a few years ago when I’ve been thinking of moving to England, but then Brexit happened - I’m from Poland, so it’s kinda hard to get the permanent residency in the UK right now.
In less than a week though, I’m going to move from the small town where I live my whole life to Warsaw, which actually scares me a lot cos it’s big and noisy. I know it’s a change for the better, and I’ll have much more opportunities to grow and find a job that’s something that I really wanna do, so I hope I’ll get used to it.
Also, I wanted to wish you luck with moving! Hope it’ll be good for you:)
Thanks so much! I'm excited for you too!!! I loved Warsaw when I visited a few years ago.
Laura, it’s telling that you mentioned your moves, having had a similar childhood with multiple moves due to my father’s work. You get to see lots of different scenarios and what’s good and bad in a place so the experience will help you find your next resting zone… when you know, you know is my motto. I live down the road from you in burnham and my brother lived in shirehampton and both of us have moved out of Bristol so know what you mean about finding somewhere that works better for you . I have a nice synth collection and have several synth nerd local friends if you’d like to chat/expand your local links whilst you’re still in the area… good luck and may the music show you the way!
Thank you!
I feel like I'm at a similar point in my life. Having moved from Swindon to Ross-on-Wye 7 years ago for work at the age of 24. I thought great time to have my own place and I can begin my adult life properly. However moving from a relatively large town to a small town and not knowing anyone hasn't been the best of experiences. My work situation changed after just 6 months and instead of working where I moved too, I had a change within the company I worked for which meant travelling 10 miles each way to a new town. I've made plenty of friends in that time who live across the UK and from my brief 2 years I went to UWE & lived in Bristol (Frenchy & off the Gloucester Road) but just none where I currently live. So driving everywhere to see people at least an hour has become apart of life for me. It's definitely time I moved to somewhere near to friends I have to have that social network instead of being so isolated. Good luck for your move though. Sorry for the ramble. Always been a fan of your music and was glad it got to be there at the Louisiana for your last gig as She Makes War
Hey there!!! Thanks for this ace comment, not a ramble at all (or if it was, I enjoyed it) - you've been loads of places and it's great to have friends all over. I have people I really care about in random places so there's no central place I could go to be right near all of them, but if there is for you then you might not have to drive so much (but then, driving is good for listening to music and podcasts...). Thanks ever so much for supporting my stuff over the years, I really appreciate that and it's lovely to hear from you.
Making a big move like you are is very daunting. We did the same nearly 3 yrs ago.We moved from kidderminster, very built up & grey, to Llwyngwril,a small village in North wales. Not completely unknown as we holidayed here for yrs & yrs...Best thing we did,beach to our left about 10 mins walk & hills to our right,about 20 min walk away from the house.We love it.
That sounds fantastic, Chris!!
Moved from Sussex to York in 2010 after 30 years growing up there. Instantly felt it was home, something I'd never really felt in Sussex despite growing up there, going to school/college there, meeting my wife while there, but I'd always had this feeling I was an outsider there. I've done so much more in York than I would ever had the opportunity to do if I'd stayed down south (so has my wife) both in work and leisure time.
This is so lovely to hear. I've always enjoyed visiting York.
You do completely right to listen to your instincts. I think they are correct about where you're headed and you're going to find it suits you 😊
Thank you, yes I think so too!
I was Born and raised in west Oxfordshire, lived there for most of my life. Due to being made redundant and Divorce, I moved to Melksham in Wiltshire. It's a lovely little market town with good Transport links. I like it here, it's quiet and peaceful. I wish you well in your move.
Thanks, Pablo! I was in Melksham in January, looks lovely.
I live in coastal Norrh Carolina. It was the second of two moves in rapid succession about 6 years ago. We moved because my wife got a job here, and we didn't know anyone here at all. We are on friendly terms with some people, but making friends is challenging as an adult (I'm 41), particularly when you are introverted. Luckily, I also have quite limited social needs and would happily spend most of my time in my own little home studio. Hope the move works out for you!
Thank you, Silas! I feel much the same - I'm happy being a loner for the most part, so creative space and greenery are the top things I'm looking for. We're the same age, so I'm glad it's not just me noticing it's harder to make friends!
I live in North Shropshire in a small town called Ellesmere and I genuinely wouldn't live anywhere else other than Shropshire. House prices are relatively cheap, it's a beautiful county and as someone who is trying to make a living as a landscape photographer this is very useful. We have rivers, canals, woodland etc etc and the entire county has a very small population. My small town of just over 4000 people is just outside the top 10 of most populous places to live in Shropshire, even Shrewsbury the county town only has just about 70000 people in it. The Welsh coast is just over an hour away and Snowdonia likewise.
When I'm not enjoying walking in the Shropshire hills however the both of myself and my wife love our culture, we can't be without it in fact and what this part of the world gives you is great access to that. From Ellesmere, Liverpool is about an hour, Manchester 90 minutes and Brum somewhere between the two. In Shrewsbury you can catch the train to all of these places and driving isn't an issue either as all of them have decent park and ride alternatives.
Here endeth the sales brochure.
Sold! Sounds absolutely glorious. Proximity to the beach is a very important thing to remember to put on my list of requirements. I'm so pleased you love where you live.
Go for it Laura, look at it this way, you've done the Bristol adventure and now need to move to the next adventure, it's empowering. We've just, last week, had a very complicated move back to England from 6 and a half years on the Isle of Skye. It had been a well researched dream location (so we thought) but it didn't work out to the dream plan, long story but many dark forces were against us throughout and it's challenging living on a small island. Stuck it out that long to claw back the money we'd lost on a self build. My only advice to anyone is probably don't choose to live in a place that has always been your favourite holiday destination, as Skye was to us, the reality of changing from a tourist (who the locals welcome), to being a resident, attracted a very different attitude towards us. After 5 trips in a week back n forth in a hire van moving our own stuff back to England, we've pitched up in a small rental to get our breath back for a few months before that crazy task of house hunting. No regrets though, just time to tick off the SKye adventure and develop the next adventure. Good luck wherever you head for :) x
Sally, that sounds like a nightmare!!! Good on you for sticking it out and making your move. Congratulations on your freedom!!
It's good to listen to yourself about what you need!
I'm in the process of a move from Exeter to Plymouth that's been going for about 6 months and involved living in Cornwall and São Paulo in the meantime, but why shouldn't the journey be fun, right?
Went to uni in Bristol and I'd love to live on Gloucester Road again someday
Oh fantastic, happy moving to you!! Ours is taking a lonnnnnggggggg time but it'll take however long it takes and all is well. Your adventures sound fun!
North Wales (Llandudno) - it's stunning!
I'm trying to get a flat in Liverpool at the moment. Whilst I do enjoy parts of the arts scene in Manchester, I am growing bored of it, and I find Liverpool is a lot more inspiring
Well that IS big news!
Moving is always hard, but upping sticks from the networks is a huge deal, esp as we get older. I've similarly moved a lot, currently in address #22, and this is a situation where practice doesn't really make it easier. The internet has helped maintain connections, but it's less good for making new connections with neighbors and becoming regulars at the coffeeshop.
Hard things aren't always fun, but it sounds as if you're seeing it as an opportunity to expand and grow, and that makes it exciting.
I've toyed with the idea of leaving London, but I still get caught up on the idea that London is pretty core to why I'm in the country at all. The covid years have changed that connection, and I can relate to what you say about Bristol feeling "over there" - it's proving a slow process to get back out and reconnect, and it really won't ever be the same. It's an ideal time to reevaluate, listen to those little inner voices, take some steps and see what happens. Onwards!
Yes! xo
Hi Laura, I wish you all the luck in the world in achieving your goal. I have lived in quite a few places around the U.K. and a stint in Crete. It's who you share the space with that is important. My go to mantra is :- If you have a roof over your head, clothes on your back and food in your belly, everything else is a bonus! Good luck finding your next roof ;-)
Your mantra is very wise, John! Thanks for the well wishes.
I did a move in my early 40s. I moved from Cardiff to rural Derbyshire. It’s beautiful and I get to talk around a wooded area with my puppies in the morning and then have a long walk in the evenings
Perfection!
22nd! Wow! I have moved house more times that I can remember, but nowhere near as many times...Born in Leipzig, Germany but parents moved to the UK not long after my birth...then it was Dundee, Wrexham, Glasgow, Newcastle, Aberdeen and now York. So 150 miles from Bristol...so not York then, that's a shame...it's so picturesque here.
York is gorgeous!
We're in Rutland (just - the Lincolnshire border is the hedge behind my office!). It's lovely here, as you know, since you visited Rutland Water a few months ago. Having said that, we will be moving to Scotland (cue Mitch Benn video) in a few years. Just south of Edinburgh, near Duns (ish). Can totally recommend both areas! ;)
I shall be at Rutland Water tomorrow, as it so happens!
Oh yeah, lovely part of the country!!
COME TO LIVERPOOL!!! :D Another city with a strong maritime history (both good and bad). I don't need to tell you about the musical connections 😆. I've loved visiting the city most of my life and three years ago I bought a flat to the south of the city centre, close to the river and I've not looked back. Despite COVID Pandemic, I have really loved living here - great vibes, lovely scenery, quiet atmosphere, with really good connections to the city centre too. In all seriousness, wherever you decide to go, I wish you both all the best :).
Thank you, Martin! I love that you love where you live xo
Never moved any further than 5 miles away from my birthplace in a North Kent town. But each move was enough to start again in the things that really matter.
I can't recommend as the county has been turned into a car park. That's a shame as there are creative enclaves where art in all its forms thrives. I hope you and Tim find somewhere creatives thrive, grow and are supported and nurtured.
Thanks, Tony xo
Sorry you are leaving Bristol but happy you are happy. I have lived in Bristol since 2003 having previously lived in Manchester for 25 years (born & raises) then 6 years in Birmingham. Bristol is myhappy place (currently) and my children were born here. However, I understand the desire to up sticks and I’m sure you will find a lovely new home. Sounds like you have your eye on a new location and I hope all this works out for you. As Ian Brown says “It’s not where you’re from, it’s where you’re at” Good luck x
Yes we do...open to ideas though so it's great to hear where else people recommend. This has turned into a lovely thread.
Birmingham has widespread negative perceptions which it doesn't deserve, and is definitely worth considering. The Moseley and Kings Heath areas are inhabited by many musicians of all genres and have a rich music scene of their own, as well as that of the central city. I saw a great gig of yours at a venue in the adjacent Balsall Heath. My cousin from London lived in Birmingham for a couple of years and spontaneously remarked that people here are very friendly - certainly the Brummie I married is! Property should be cheaper than Bristol. The downside might be that it's as far from a beach as you can get in Britain, though it is at the centre of the national road and rail network.
I've always loved Birmingham!
I live in Locks Heath, between Portsmouth and Southampton. It's easy access to both cities, the New Forest, and of course the sea. It's suburban and quiet but gradually getting younger and more interesting. Terrifyingly exorbitant prices though. We need more space, but that's a very distant hope if we want to stay here. Have you considered Leeds? I've always like Leeds for some reason...
Leeds is fab! I tried to move there in 2012 but it didn't work out. Maybe one day...
I lived around the corner from you, when you were in Herne Hill. I'm still in London (just more SE now, and owning). I've contemplated moving away, to move somewhere quieter in the countryside, or closer to my parents as they get older, but then I don't want to move away from my life I have set-up with friends and social life - so perhaps that will wait a few years. Starting afresh somewhere new is always tricky isn't it?
It is!!! I feel like my life as it is lifts right out of Bristol, but when I set it down again wherever we decide to go I hope to put down a few roots.
I live in Poole,about 10 minutes from the beach. 30 minutes from my beloved Purbecks, I use to live it Worth Matravers near Swanage. So Dorset has such a beautiful Jurassic Coastline. Bridport area is just stunning and can be very inspirational to anyone creative especially music artists,Billy Bragg lives near Bridport and PJ Harvey comes from Bridport!
We had a lovely holiday in Bridport area, it's gorgeous yes!
Yeah everywhere along the Jurassic Coast is just stunning. Just think you could wake up to the sound and smell of the sea.
Hi Laura. Isn’t moving house 3rd on the list of most stressful life events? I have moved 21 times, most of it as a child being shunted between parents. Born in Peterborough and ended up living both sides of the rivers in Southampton. There is a good music scene, coastal walks, the New Forest, good rail and road links to London (where I commute) and lots of history. It’s just so damn expensive!
I’ve always enjoyed going to Nottingham for gigs and meeting friends there. It seems a very cosmopolitan place and vibrant. I’d like to move there. Best of luck for wherever you all end up.
Thanks so much, Stu - and yes you're right about the stressful events! Seems sort of bonkers to add that into our already hectic lives, but it feels like the right time, and I'm planning to be as "whatever will be will be" about the whole thing as possible. Lots of meditation! Nottingham's on our shortlist, actually, good call :)
I live in north London, in a small studio flat. I have a couple of friends around the area, but I am not 100% sure I’ll be living forever in London…
ALL THE FEELS!
Come to Southampton! Loads of musicians and cheap and near London/Brighton/Oxford... and Bristol..
You sell it so well... ;)
I moved to Cornwall from London 21 years ago, I bought a bungalow that is 4 miles from the north coast (Porthtowan) and 7 miles from South Coast (Falmouth) I stil have the bungalow but my brother now rents it off me. I now live in Truro in my partners house. However if I was going to move to a city (Truro is tiny, so not really a city) I would probably move to Bristol as it is close to everywhere in the country and has a great vibe.
You live in such a beautiful part of the country!
We moved from Bristol to Newcastle about six years ago. In our early 50s. The cities are of a similar size but I think that Tyne and Wear has more to offer than the West of England.
The seaside is nicer, there are more music venues and the people are lush. We loved Bristol too, though!
I'm hearing such great things about Newcastle on this thread! I'm so glad you're happy where you are.
Hey! Laura good for you for making the decision. I have moved around all my life (Dad in RAF). Then I moved from S Wales to London aged 16 (band life failed) moved back to S Wales aged 19. Moved to Reading as a Corporate Warrior in 1998. Moved to West Midlands in 2008 (new job). Always wanted to retire to North Wales. Decided to move to North Wales anyway and work from home and do long commutes in 2019. Cue Pandemi - house hunting stalled. But I became full time home worker, and finally moved to North Wales last year - best thing I've ever done. We didn't know anyone here, but knew the area well after many holidays. I can now enjoy the place before I become too old to get out into the mountains. Good luck with the house hunting!
That's so lovely, Steve. Wales is gorgeous. RAF kid here too, snap! It's a really different life, isn't it.
@@Penfriendrocks Sure is - always the new kid!
I've lived in a lot of places for short times although come from Northumberland and do love Newcastle and lived there for a time. But eventually I felt like there was nothing left for me there so on the spur of the moment really I packed up and moved to London. It's taken me a while to carve out my life here but I'm in love with the city in all its chaotic and complex annoyances and joys. But during the pandemic I thought I'd like to try somewhere else, maybe where I could buy a home. I moved to Bristol too and found a place to live and tried to get involved with local communities of people although, probably because of the pandemic as much as anything, I felt lonely and didn't really mesh with Bristol. It wasn't Bristol, it was me. But then the chance came to buy a boat in London and I grabbed that chance and moved back, plugging into a community of people here so I now have the city itself plus a strange and beautiful life in a parallel world within the city. A life on the water.
All the best for your move and I hope it brings you a lot of positive energy.
This sounds like a wonderful adventure, Elisabeth! I don't know if it's me or what, but Bristol feels very cliquey and I've never been invited in. I look back and think, well, perhaps I could have / should have tried harder, but you do the best you can at the time don't you. Congratulations on boat life!
@@Penfriendrocks That resonates with me too.
Brighton? Or somewhere like Frome in Somerset or up North?
Come to Devon! ⛵
I think you should both move to Llanelli and we can all go running together!
Yayyyyy
last time I looked Worcester wasn't 150 miles from Bristol, which is a shame as it would have been cool to have you and Tim as neighbours!
Awh that's kind, lovely to know we're welcome round your way :) xo
@@Penfriendrocks You definitely have a thriving Worcestershire fan club :) I'd go North though, much more house for your money - imagine the joys of a detached home studio! - without being somewhere horrid, I would guess. (I mean, that's if I was in your situation; as it is, I doubt I'll ever leave Malvern again)
P.S. You could buy a campervan & roam around for a while, writing music & busking your way around, picking up inspiration from your adventures, as you go?! And write a book with photos 👍 The Adventures of 1 (+3) coming to a bookstore near you soon 📚
Sounds like your dream - go for it!
Ah, sadly not! I'm not that brave or adventurous anymore! I like my comforts. And I'm a sucker for routine. X
Just worked last sunday to help a friend (also a female musician ) we started from 8 am to 9 pm, we move everyrhing , i drove..haha. was very very exhaustive.. ohh i wish we could be neighbors, at least visit us and play in some places here, or record something : D best wishes mi chula!!!
P.s. i saw your video moving your home studio to another room.. and i also did the same. Haha i posted a video about it.. mucho amor 💘
Fantastic! I'll go and watch it now...
I was born in Sufflok, have lived here most of my life (8 months in North Wales, Norwich on and off a few times.).. so I am biased.. I currently (10 years now!) live in Bungay. You probably have already made a list of possible new locations.. is Suffolk one of them?
It's not. I spent my teens here (I'm typing this from my parents' house outside Bury St Edmunds) and it wasn't a fond time for me at all! So I hadn't even considered it. I've heard great things about Bungay though!
And as Natalie says, the sea swimming is second to none 🐳 I can't live without my daily fix ⛵ Then again, I am biased, I grew up here & it is the best in my humble opinion 👍
I grew up in small-town Shropshire and then moved to big-town Shropshire. Do I like it? It's more about the size of the budget - moving to my 'home' town would be nice (and my folks still live there) but ££££££. Been in the same house since the late '90s, so I think that might qualify as 'settled'! On the other hand, this wasn't the house I really wanted in the first place (there was another just up the same road on a bigger plot, but the sellers were dodging the estate agents so I couldn't even get a viewing). The neighbours are mostly decent, but I have a long-simmering internalized discontent over the fact that I own more parking than I can use, but some of my neighbours have more cars than they have parking for and GUESS WHERE they park. It was all a bit sly - "can he park that car on the end - he's doing it up for a mate...?" - making me think said car would be gone within weeks/months...and they've still got it years later.... Decent people and I don't like to make a fuss, but...🙄😮💨🤨😞😠
Arghhhhh! Hell is other people (except for the considerate ones).
Hilperton (Wiltshire) so Bath is close , Bristol Farley close . Moved from stafford 16 years ago and don’t regret it
Oh good for you, Dean!
I haven’t actually watched this one yet, just stopping in to say how awesome your glasses are.
Thanks, Shaun! Lovely to hear from you - I'm going to catch up with your channel now :) xo
Toronto....but lived in London for 10 years
I love Toronto!
I'm in Auckland, New Zealand - it's awesome, but I suspect it's a bit far for you to move! I love the blend of beach-y outdoor spaces and a reasonably-sized international city.
Good luck with the move. I detest moving with a passion. If I could stay in one house for the rest of my life I would, but my wife would kill me!
Haha! New Zealand would be top of my list if it weren't for the ginormous faff and leaving absolutely everyone I know behind!!! I really do hope to spend some holiday time there *one day* though, really must make that happen.
My constant house moves through my life have made me much more resistant to moving. I hate it! Renting doesn’t help as everywhere feels temporary.
Leicester area is nice and Nottingham nearby is good. Wherever you end up I hope the new Launchpad gets the sign put up and welcomes all creativity.
Thank you! I hear you on resisting moving, I just can't carry on here for much longer :S xo
I am about to put my house up for sale in South Bristol to move back to Australia. After being stuck in UK for two and a half years unable to return easily went back to see family last month and moving back was a fuck yes for sure.
Oh wow, I'm so happy for you being set to return. Congratulations and fingers crossed for a speedy sale for you.
I had space envy for both Launchpads. I hope that the move works out for you. Head north, you will be welcomed by all.
Thank you so much, Paul!!
I'll answer your question but I doubt you'll be my neighbor at any time. I live in Farmindale, NJ, USA. I moved here 7 years ago planning to have a quiet country neighborhood and that's exactly what's here. Settled in as my final living space (I think). At 62 I don't think I want to handle smithery pack and move. All the best to you no matter where you land. I'm looking forward to a relaunch of the launchpad and all the new music.
Thanks so much, Erin! It's great you've found somewhere you enjoy. I bet the scenery there is lush!
On the bright side...more Penfriend interior design videos (Yippee!). Probably not what you had in mind for your RUclips channel but i enjoyed watching you set up the new launchpad (even if it didn't work out in the end) and look forward to see what you do with your new home, wherever it ends up being.
Know what Marc, I have decor footage for old Launchpad and failed Launchpad to share once I get round to it :) lovely to know you'll enjoy that!
If I could move anywhere it would be Norway ...the most beautiful place I've ever been ..the forests and fjords 😩stunning