Moving to Okehampton: Best Neighbourhoods & Storage Options

Okehampton is a charming market town in Devon, England, sitting on the northern edge of Dartmoor National Park. Surrounded by scenic landscapes and rolling farmland, it offers a relaxed, rural lifestyle with a friendly community atmosphere. The town blends historic features – like the dramatic Okehampton Castle – with modern convenience. The recently reopened Dartmoor Line rail link to Exeter means you can commute or travel easily. In short, moving to Okehampton gives you a quieter pace of life without being completely off the map.

Why Okehampton is a Great Place to Move

Okehampton has been recognized as one of the top places to live in the UK, in part because of its blend of natural beauty and everyday convenience. Here are some reasons why moving here could be a great decision:

• Rural and Scenic Environment: Nestled at the confluence of the East and West Okement rivers, Okehampton is surrounded by lush farmland and moorland. The proximity to Dartmoor National Park means easy access to hiking, mountain biking, and panoramic views. You can explore miles of trails or enjoy a picnic on an open heath – perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors.

• Strong Community Feel: This town prides itself on a welcoming community atmosphere. Local events like the annual Okehampton Show and regular markets bring people together. There are community gardens, volunteer projects, and clubs for all ages. It’s the sort of place where neighbours wave hello, join in local festivals, and pitch in for charity fun runs. You’ll quickly find friendly faces at the farmers’ market or the local pubs.

• Good Transport Links: Despite its country feel, Okehampton is surprisingly well connected. The A30 trunk road runs nearby, linking you by car to Exeter, Cornwall and the M5. Even better, the railway station reopened in 2021. Now you can reach Exeter by train in under an hour, with connections to London and beyond. Local bus services also run to nearby towns. As a result, Okehampton is within reach for commuters and makes it easier to travel without stressing over remote living.

• Education and Amenities: The town provides a range of services you need every day. There are primary schools and a secondary school (Okehampton College), a health clinic and a community (cottage) hospital. Everyday shopping is covered by a Waitrose supermarket and several smaller shops on Fore Street. You’ll find banks, a post office, and a modern library. Pubs, cafes and restaurants – from traditional inns to a trendy coffee shop – make sure you’re never far from a meal or a pint. For families, the local recreation ground and sports fields mean kids can stay active after school.

• Affordable Housing: Compared to major cities, house prices in Okehampton can be more reasonable. There is a mix of homes available: from charming stone cottages near the town centre to newer family houses on the outskirts. Many people find they get more value here – a garden and extra rooms for the price of a smaller flat in a city. This affordability is especially appealing for first-time buyers, families or retirees looking for a bit more space.

• Leisure and Culture: In addition to its natural charms, Okehampton offers a range of leisure options. The New Carlton cinema (a restored Edwardian theatre) shows the latest films, and the Charter Hall hosts community theatre and music events. Local pubs and cafes often feature quiz nights and live music. Sports enthusiasts can join rugby, football, hockey, and tennis clubs, or use the gym and pool at the Parklands Leisure Centre. There is always something happening to bring people together.

• Green Spaces and Wellness: The town has several parks and walking areas. Simmons Park, near the castle, provides riverside walks, a children’s play area, and open lawns for picnics or football. Newtown Common and the nature reserves by the rivers are also popular. Many residents enjoy being active outdoors or gardening in spacious yards, contributing to a healthy lifestyle.

• Safety and Education: Okehampton is in a low-crime area, giving residents peace of mind. Schools here are well-regarded; there are a couple of primary schools and Okehampton College for teens. This, combined with affordable housing, makes it a sensible choice for young families or those seeking a quieter retirement.

Considering all these points will help beginners see why Okehampton is a solid choice for a relocation.

Exploring Okehampton’s Neighbourhoods

While Okehampton is smaller than a city, it still has distinct areas and nearby villages that feel like separate neighbourhoods. Each has its own charm, whether you prefer the convenience of town life or the peace of the countryside.

Okehampton Town Centre

At the heart of the town is the historic centre. The centre has a traditional English market-town feel, with shops and services along Fore Street and its side lanes. You’ll find:

• Local Shops and Market: Independent retailers and a weekly farmers’ market offer fresh local produce and artisan goods. There’s also a major Waitrose supermarket on the edge of town for everyday groceries.

• Cultural Landmarks: Okehampton Castle (a dramatic medieval ruin) overlooks the town and is great for family outings. The Museum of Dartmoor Life is nearby, sharing the area’s heritage with visitors and locals alike.

• Leisure and Dining: Simmons Park provides green space for picnics and events. There’s a charming Victorian arcade of boutiques, plus cafes and pubs. For example, The London Inn and The Beehive are popular local spots, and residents often mention enjoying walks along the river from Simmons Park. The New Carlton Cinema screens current films, giving the town a bit of old-town cinema magic.

• Community Atmosphere: Living near the town centre means you'll be close to the library, community centers, and schools (Okehampton Primary and the College). Neighbors here often know each other, creating a friendly small-town vibe. You may cross paths with people at the weekly market or in the local gym, so building social connections is easy.

This area is ideal if you want amenities within easy walking distance. However, parking can be tighter on busy shopping days, so be mindful of local parking rules in the centre.

Family-Friendly Suburbs and New Developments

Surrounding the historic core are newer housing areas that many families and professionals find appealing. These estates often feature modern layouts, small parks, and good access to schools:

• North Tawton Road & Merton Estate: North of the centre, along North Tawton Road, are quiet residential streets and newer developments. These neighbourhoods have semi-detached homes on calm streets. Many families live around streets like Vicars Hall Road, enjoying front lawns and a suburban feel while still being just minutes from town.

• Monks Path and Exeter Road: To the east, near Exeter Road, developments like Moyses Meadow offer modern houses in a suburban layout. These areas have more green spaces – small parks and play areas – and are only a short drive from local schools and shops.

• Recreational Facilities: A highlight of these suburbs is Parklands Leisure Centre off Exeter Road. It has a swimming pool, gym, and sports halls, making it easy to stay active without traveling far. Many parents like homes within walking distance of this centre and nearby fields or playgrounds.

• Quiet Streets: These newer areas tend to have less through-traffic compared to the town centre. Cul-de-sacs and cycle paths make them safer for kids to play outside. If you’re looking for a family-friendly vibe – room for children to run around and neighbours in the same stage of life – these suburbs might be a great fit.

With more space and quieter streets, many families choose these neighbourhoods for their moves. Residents appreciate the combination of modern homes, local parks, and the fact that they’re still a short drive from Fore Street and the high street shops.

Villages and Rural Hamlets

If you crave even more countryside living, consider villages and small hamlets just outside Okehampton. These offer a slower pace and beautiful views, although you’ll generally need a car to get around:

• Sticklepath: About 3 miles southwest, Sticklepath is a village on the edge of Dartmoor with its own character. It has a small shop and village pub (the Olde White Hart Inn). The long-distance Tarka Trail (a cycling and walking route) runs through Sticklepath, making it great for outdoor recreation.

• Belstone: A bit further up on the moor, Belstone is tranquil and scenic, with stunning moor views. It’s ideal for someone who wants peace and space – think cottages and farmhouses with wide-open scenery. However, shops and schools are farther away, so it’s best if you’re comfortable with driving daily.

• South Tawton: Just south of Okehampton, this quiet village is notable for its historic church and proximity to open countryside. It offers a village primary school and has a friendly community vibe. Many people here commute into Okehampton or Exeter for work, enjoying the quiet evenings back home.

• Folly Gate, King’s Nympton, Jacobstowe: These tiny hamlets each have a rustic, rural feel and are only a short drive from town. Properties here often come with larger plots or even farmland. They are perfect if you dream of a rural retreat, but expect to plan trips (even grocery runs) in advance and sometimes rely on neighbours or local services for help.

• Nearby Dartmoor Villages: Areas like Sourton and Belstone (also in the region) similarly offer small-community living. Each has a strong neighbourly vibe and regular village events. Living here means embracing a close-knit rural community. Public transport is limited in these spots, so most households have a car or two.

Each of these areas is worth exploring to see which vibe suits you: the buzz of the centre, the suburb’s family comfort, or the country calm of a village.

What to Expect in Town

Once you arrive, you’ll notice that Okehampton’s pace is more relaxed compared to cities. Parking is generally easy outside of market times. Busy spots like Fore Street may have tight parking, but most shops on the outskirts have plenty of space. Essential services – the pharmacy, bank branches, and Post Office – are all conveniently placed on Fore Street. There’s even a petrol station and a small supermarket near the edge of town. Medical facilities include a doctors’ surgery and a small community (cottage) hospital in case you need healthcare locally.

One highlight of town life is the weekly market. On Thursdays local farmers and artisans set up stalls selling produce, meats, baked goods, and crafts. The market is not only practical, but also a great way to meet neighbours and get a taste of local community. If you arrive on market day, you’ll immediately feel the friendly atmosphere as you browse the stalls.

For entertainment, note that Okehampton gets quiet at night. There’s no major nightclub scene here, but you have cozy pubs like The Fountain Inn or The Pannier for an evening drink or a meal with friends. Events like live music evenings sometimes pop up at local venues. Overall, the nightlife is certainly low-key – usually a quiz night, a folk concert or a communal dinner rather than a club party.

In short, expect a clean, safe town with essential shops and services close by. It’s easy to run errands, and the dark skies can even make for great stargazing on clear nights. Most people find the transition to life here is smooth, especially if you take a day to drive around town and the surrounding villages before moving in.

Storage Solutions for Your Move

Before packing, consider whether you need extra space: often the first step is decluttering. Holding a garage sale or donating unused items can dramatically cut down on what you must move or store. If you still need room after downsizing, having a reliable storage unit or service ready can make the transition smoother. When moving to a new home in Okehampton – with its narrow streets and older houses – these storage options can help keep the process stress-free. Whether you ultimately need a place to keep excess furniture temporarily or want to free up space during the move, here are some storage solutions to consider:

Self-Storage Facilities in Okehampton

Local self-storage companies let you rent secure, private units by the week or month. For example, Oke Self Storage (located on Hameldown Road) offers large containers and indoor rooms. Most facilities provide:

• 24/7 Access: Many are open day and night, so you can retrieve or add items at any time that suits your schedule.

• High Security: Expect fenced perimeters, coded gate entry, and CCTV cameras. You usually have your own heavy-duty lock on your unit.

• Variety of Sizes: Options range from small lockers to large garage-sized units, so you only pay for the space you need.

• Drive-up Convenience: Many let you pull up right next to your unit, making it easy to load and unload your van directly.

Using a self-storage unit is useful for situations like: storing excess furniture during renovations, keeping items safe while your new home is readied, or holding seasonal items (like winter tires or garden tools). Prices are generally competitive; they often charge by week or month. Insurance is a good idea, so check if your personal insurance covers stored items or ask the storage company about policies.

Portable Storage and Moving Companies

Another option is portable storage containers. These are large lockable boxes that a company can drop off at your home. You pack it at your own pace, then the company picks it up and stores it securely until you need it delivered to your new address. This is handy if you don’t have a big moving truck or if your schedule is tight.

Some local moving firms – including Ed Kowalski Removals – either provide portable storage or partner with providers. For example, when using a removal service, you can ask if they can keep your belongings in storage for you. This means one company handles both transport and storage, simplifying your planning.

Portable storage is especially helpful if:

• You’re moving out before you move in, and you need somewhere to keep your things in between.

• You have time to pack gradually, without rushing on moving day.

• You’d prefer not to drive a van full of boxes yourself.

Decluttering remains key: the fewer possessions you have, the smaller (and cheaper) storage you’ll need. After sorting your belongings, decide what goes straight to the new home and what can go into storage.

Tips for Choosing the Right Storage

• Size and Type: Estimate how much space you’ll need. A small locker might hold the contents of a single room; a large container can fit a whole household’s furniture. Some firms let you upgrade if needed.

• Duration: Think about how long you’ll need storage. Short-term (a few weeks) or long-term (months). Some places give discounts for longer rentals.

• Location: A facility closer to Okehampton or your moving route can save time on loading and unloading. Consider how far you’re willing to drive.

• Climate Control: Devon can be damp. If you have sensitive items (antique furniture, electronics, important documents), look for a climate-controlled or indoor unit to prevent moisture damage.

• Insurance: Check if your current insurance covers your stored goods. If not, ask about insurance options. You’ll want peace of mind that your valuables are protected against theft or damage.

• Security: Verify the facility’s security (CCTV, alarms, on-site staff). Only you should have the key or access code to your container.

• Access Times: Some storage providers allow 24/7 access, others have set hours. Choose one that fits your schedule, especially if you might need to retrieve something outside normal working hours.

• Price: Compare quotes. Storage prices can vary based on location, container size, and added features. Watch out for hidden fees (like administration or lock costs).

Taking the time to plan your storage can save you stress. A reputable removal company or self-storage facility will help you decide on the right size and services. In some cases, movers will even load or unload your storage unit for you. By sorting your items and arranging storage early, you ensure a smoother, more organized move.

Making the Move with Local Removals

To truly make your relocation smooth and stress-free, teaming up with a dependable local moving company can help. For instance, Ed Kowalski Removals is a trusted Devon-based service that specialises in home moves. Here’s how professionals can assist:

• Full-Service Moves: The moving team handles everything for you. They bring packing materials, carefully pack fragile items, disassemble furniture if needed, and handle all the heavy lifting. When they arrive at your new home, they unpack and place items where you want them. This is ideal if you’d rather focus on other aspects of the move.

• Man-and-Van Services: If you prefer to pack yourself, you can hire movers just for loading, transport, and unloading. This is often cheaper for small moves or when you have fewer items. The movers can give you a smaller quote for just the labour and van.

• Packing Materials: Many removal companies supply boxes, tape, bubble wrap and the like, saving you a trip to the store. They can even pack delicate glassware and artwork professionally, protecting your belongings.

• Flexible Scheduling: Moving companies know local patterns. They’ll advise you on the best day and time to move to avoid rush hour or school traffic. They can also discuss off-peak dates when demand (and prices) might be lower.

• Insurance and Protection: Reputable movers include basic transit insurance in case of accidents. You can often buy extra coverage if you have very valuable items. This insurance gives extra peace of mind.

Here are a few quick tips for the moving day:

• Pack an essentials box with items you’ll need right away (toiletries, phone chargers, tea/coffee, a change of clothes, important documents). This way you’re not digging through all the boxes to find a brush on day one.

• Label boxes clearly (kitchen, bedroom, fragile, etc.) and keep an inventory list. This helps both you and the movers know what’s inside each box.

• Protect floors and walls: It’s common courtesy (and wise) to lay down old sheets or runners to prevent dirt or damage when moving large furniture in and out of homes.

• Check parking permits: Moving vans are big. In town areas you may need a temporary permit or should plan where the van can legally and safely park.

• Plan breaks and refreshments: Moving day can be physically tiring. Keep water and snacks handy for everyone helping, and take short rest breaks to avoid fatigue. Well-rested movers (including yourself) will work faster and safer.

Working with professionals means much of this planning is easier. Many people find that having a local team who knows Okehampton well makes a big difference – it can turn what is often a chaotic day into a well-organized project. Movers like Ed Kowalski will typically provide a free quote after evaluating your home’s size, and they can advise on whether you need storage or any extra services.

By combining the removal service with any needed storage, you streamline the process. For example, if there’s a gap between selling your old home and moving into the new one, the movers can transport your belongings into a storage unit and then out again when the time is right. They handle the heavy lifting and logistics, letting you focus on settling into your new life in Okehampton.

FAQ

Q: What are the best neighbourhoods to consider when moving to Okehampton?A: It depends on your preferences. The town centre offers convenience and historic charm, with shops and amenities within walking distance. If you prefer newer housing and larger family homes, look at the suburbs north and east of town (like North Tawton Road and Exeter Road areas). For a truly rural setting, nearby villages such as Sticklepath, Belstone, or South Tawton provide peaceful country living just a short drive away.

Q: Are there affordable storage options near Okehampton?A: Yes, there are several budget-friendly storage facilities. Oke Self Storage in Okehampton provides secure, weatherproof containers (accessible 24/7) at competitive weekly rates. Hannaford Property Storage offers container storage and collection services in the region, which can be convenient. Always compare prices and features to find the best deal for the space you need.

Q: How can I make my move to Okehampton as stress-free as possible?A: Planning is key. Start by decluttering and packing non-essentials in advance. Use sturdy boxes and label them clearly. Book a reliable removal company early; local experts like Ed Kowalski Removals understand Devon and can guide you. Consider short-term storage if there’s any gap between homes. On moving day, have an essentials box ready (with chargers, snacks, important documents) so you can settle in quickly. With good organization and professional help, moving can go smoothly.

Q: Do removal companies in Okehampton handle long-distance moves?A: Absolutely. Many Okehampton movers, including Ed Kowalski Removals, offer both local and nationwide relocation services. Whether your move is across town or to another city (even London or Scotland), they can arrange transportation. Discuss your needs with them – they’ll plan the best route and schedule, making sure your belongings arrive safely at your destination.

Q: Is Okehampton a good place to raise a family?A: Many families find Okehampton appealing. There are good primary schools and Okehampton College for teenagers, along with safe neighbourhoods and plenty of outdoor activities. The town’s community feel and affordable housing are pluses. However, keep in mind that it’s quieter than a city, and having a car is helpful for travel and some amenities.

Q: How can I save money on moving costs in Okehampton?A: You can keep costs down by planning carefully. Decluttering before the move reduces how much you need to transport or store. Try to move during off-peak times (mid-week or outside the summer peak) for better rates. Get multiple quotes from removal companies and consider doing some packing yourself. Even comparing hiring a smaller van versus a full-service move can help you choose the most cost-effective option.

Q: When is the best time of year to move to Okehampton?A: The choice depends on your priorities. Summer offers longer daylight and generally good weather, but it is the busiest (and often more expensive) season. Moving in spring or autumn can be easier on schedules and sometimes cheaper, with fewer crowds and still pleasant weather. Winter moves (especially around Christmas) are possible but may involve cooler weather and holiday closures. Ultimately, planning at least a month ahead and booking early can get you better dates and prices.

Q: How do I choose a reliable removal company in Okehampton?A: Seek out professionals who are licensed and insured, and check local reviews or testimonials. A good company will usually offer a free survey of your home and a detailed quote. For example, Ed Kowalski Removals is known in the region for clear pricing and friendly service. Make sure the mover has handled similar relocations before and ask about insurance. Getting multiple quotes and confirming what each service includes will help you pick the best moving partner.