Move to... the middle of nowhere

Live off the beaten track with a property that offers peace, privacy and panoramic views in equal measure. By Joanna Simmons and Rosie Ainslie

 

An isolated farmhouse at the end of a bumpy track...a tiny island accessible only by boat on a calm day...a hamlet in the heart of a remote valley - middle-of-nowhere homes come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you wish to live without neighbours, miles from the nearest village, or in a small settlement in some rural outpost, living off the beaten track offers rewards and challenges.

 

Most of England is densely populated, as is south Wales and the central lowlands of Scotland. To get away from it all, head to central or north-west Wales, the far north of England, the Highlands of Scotland and the rural parts of Northern Ireland. The Highlands and Islands have remote crofts and hamlets, while in Wales, Powys boasts only one person to every ten acres of land. Moving to an out-of-the way spot demands thought. The romance of the idea can be intoxicating, but consider how far you are prepared to travel to amenities. Factor in the weather (will you be cut off in winter?) and how the move will suit each member of your family. Do you have teenage children who would be frustrated by a rural existence?

 

Will you be able to cope with complete isolation, or remote village life, where you swap anonymity for a close-knit community? Finally, will you be able to find employment and maintain your home and vehicles? If you work through all the practicalities and still feel drawn to an away-from-it-all home, bountiful rewards await - peace, privacy, no pollution and property at often knock-down prices.

 

Is an isolated home for you?

 

Healthy living

It offers a slower pace of life, little traffic, low crime rate and none of the light, noise and air pollution that affects 90 per cent of the country. You may also have land on which to grow your own produce and keep livestock.

 

Work

Employment is harder to find and salaries lower than in urban areas and you may need to travel far to reach it, but as all of the UK is broadband-enabled now, working from home is a possibility.

 

Nature

Observe the seasons changing and access unspoiled countryside from your door. Remember, though, that the weather has a far greater impact on life in remote areas. As so many rural activities are outdoor-based, it will dictate what you can and can't do.

 

House prices

Remote homes tend to cost less than those in better-connected places, but remember to factor in the cost of heating and maintenance: keeping the inside clean, the exterior weatherproof and the land under control. Either you do it yourself (have you got the time and energy?) or pay someone else to. As you will be reliant on a car, budget for running costs and repairs, too.

 

Fewer people

You may be moving to get away from people, but if you intend to be sociable, research what the nearest local community has to offer. It could be vibrant and welcoming, or sleepy, ageing and suspicious of in-comers. Check that distances between your home and work, schools and facilities are manageable and be sure that friends and relatives are prepared to travel to visit you, too.

 

So do you think an isolated home could be for you? Click here for six of the best

 

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