Courtney Pochin, a senior lifestyle reporter, moved from London to Tunbridge Wells in Kent in January 2024 seeking a quieter life after her husband's cancer diagnosis. Within a month, she was begging her landlord to let her leave. The couple returned to London after six months, citing the grueling commute and lack of activities as key reasons.
London's Population Decline
According to new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), more than 400,000 people left London in a year, with the population down 0.3% in 2025. Social media feeds are filled with people swapping the capital for countryside or coastal living, but Pochin's experience suggests the reality may not match the appeal.
The Move to Tunbridge Wells
Pochin and her husband found a two-bedroom cottage in Tunbridge Wells with a kitchen larger than their London flat, plus a garden and parking, all for the same rent. The town offered green spaces, independent stores, and coffee shops. They signed a rental contract with a six-month break clause, just in case.
The Commuting Reality
Pochin faced frequent train delays and cancellations, waking at 5am to get to work and sometimes not returning until 11pm. She described it as merely existing, not living. Her husband also regretted the move, finding Tunbridge Wells boring and missing the spontaneity of London life—like last-minute theatre tickets or visits to the National Gallery.
The Decision to Return
The couple moved back to London, this time to Zone 3, where they enjoy a compromise: small-town feel without leaving the city. Pochin now commutes on the District Line at a more reasonable hour. She noted that while Tunbridge Wells is a lovely place, it simply wasn't right for them.
Lessons Learned
Pochin concluded that trying the move was worthwhile to eliminate the 'what if.' She and her husband now appreciate London more, having experienced life elsewhere. The experience underscores that suburban living isn't for everyone, despite the trend of leaving the capital.
