Fresh air and nature on the doorstep

There is plenty of help on offer to get out of the city, says Kirsty Mcluckie

Moving out of the city to a more rural environment is a natural step for many families looking for more space, a gentler pace of life and access to the countryside.

But it could also be good for you. Prioritising greener, leafy locations should be a key consideration for home movers who are looking to boost their wellbeing, says Anne Ross, sales director at Barratt and David Wilson Homes East Scotland.

Referencing studies by Oxford University and King’s College London, she says: “Recent research has demonstrated the positive effects associated with being close to nature, with effects [which] can last for several hours.

“It’s therefore vital that those who are choosing to move home to obtain a more balanced lifestyle don’t just view properties in isolation, but also consider the natural environment around them and how this will influence their wellbeing.”

For those in the Lothians considering buying a new home, both Barratt and David Wilson Homes have developments which are perfectly suited to buyers aiming to change their outlook.

Haddington features a number of riverside walks along the banks of the Tyne, with green farmland and woodland paths revealing an abundance of wildlife and natural habitats.

David Wilson Homes is selling fourbedroomed detached homes from its Dovecot Mill development in the East Lothian town.

Particularly well located for those considering a move from the city centre, buyers get far more for their money and can swap a two-bedroomed city flat for a four-bedroomed home for around the same price.

A number of homes at the site also include incentives such as part exchange and Movemaker, which can take much of the stress and hassle out of a move.

Prices start from £312,995 for the four-bedroomed detached Drumoig house type, which has an integral garage, a bay windowed lounge at the front, French doors to the rear garden from the kitchen and a utility room. It is offered with part exchange.

Located in the shadow of the Pentland Hills, Heritage Grange, near Liberton, is well-situated to take advantage of the green fields, rolling hills and 60-mile path network, all of which are in view from the development.

The Falkland house type is a fourbedroomed detached home with integral garage, open-plan kitchen with utility, family and dining area.

It comes with an enhanced kitchen and extras such as bathroom upgrades and flooring throughout. It is available with part exchange extra, which sees the developer handling the sale of a purchasers’ existing home while their new home is being built. If a buyer isn’t found within the sale period, the builder will purchase the existing home for market value.

The Lothians’ east coast offers the perfect mix of sea and country for those looking to relocate to a location which aids wellbeing.

Barratt Homes’ Newcraighall Village development is well-positioned to make the most of the coast and countryside on its doorstep, with Portobello Beach, Musselburgh Harbour and the John Muir Way all within walking distance.

A handful of three-bedroomed semidetached homes remain for sale, starting from £278,995, including the Ravenscraig house type, which comes with integral garage and ensuite bathroom.