Where in England is a good place to live, coming from America?

Question

I am an American female who plans to move to England after completing university on my Irish citizenship and open a bookstore. Where would be a good place to live, that's not dull or remote, without people being too hostile? I know some British people arn't exactly fond of Americans.

Answer 1

You could try Oxford or Cambridge (lots of people buying books there, but of course they already have lots of bookshops).  Hay on Wye is famous for bookshops and I would imagine the rent is cheaper than a city (you may even be able to rent a shop with the shelves already in it and save yourself money!).

But I guess a tour around the country might be the best thing to do first - get a feel for the place.  A smallish town that doesn't already have many bookshops could be a good move for example somewhere in Derbyshire or Yorkshire that's pleasant, fairly busy but not totally rural.

Answer 2

Manchester the place of Hospitality!!!!

Answer 3

Stay away from us the countries full up....

Answer 4

i just find it hard to understand why so many americans want to live in the UK! your the only ones...

Answer 5

The good thing about moving to somewhere like Newcastle Upon Tyne (north east england) is you are so close to Northumberland (stunning) and the coast, it's perfect! Other places to think about - Manchester, Leeds, York, Kent, Brighton,  Bournemouth?  Lot's of people will say London but its not one of my fave places (nice to visit though :) )

Answer 6

West Sussex.

Answer 7

Open a bookstore? There are plenty of those everywhere, on every high street in every town. Most of them are chains and franchises just like in the US.

British people are not usually hostile to foreign immigrants (heaven knows there are plenty there already) but starting a business without any experience is a recipe for disaster even in your own country. Even if you have plenty of money behind you.

There's nothing wrong with having a goal or a dream, but if you love books maybe you should get a job in a library or bookstore first.

Answer 8

British people don't dislike Americans, it's mostly just poking gentle fun at them, not in a mean way.

Any of the big cities are fun and interesting, but then people in the city tend to be more hostile (but still friendly)

I wouldn't recommend moving to London, if you're not used to England, as you might find it a bit overwhelming (not to mention the cost).

Try Manchester, Nottingham, Leeds or Newcastle.

Answer 9

If you're coming from America you'll find London a bit scary and overwhelming I think. If you're looking for the city life, Birmingham, Newcastle and Manchester and nice Northern cities. Personally, I think Southern England is much nicer so try Plymouth or Southampton, or Canterbury in the South East would be PERFECT for opening a book store as its quite an old city, with very beautiful architecture and antique feel.

If you're looking for something rural, Somerset is beautiful and the Lake District is stunning.

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Answer 10

if you want a city, try newcastle. if you want country life try the lake district.