‘Moving to the middle of nowhere would have been tricky – here I have a happy medium’

Robert Donnelly, 33, lives in Matlock Spa, Derbyshire

Robert Donnelly, a pharmaceutical industry consultant, moved from Greenwich in south-east London earlier this year for a new job in the North West. He decided to rent for the short-term and moved into a threebedroom terraced house at Matlock Spa. He’s now considering buying.

“I moved to Matlock as it was well positioned for my new job between Cheshire and Leeds. It’s a town with good facilities, shops, bars and restaurants yet it is a stone’s throw from the Peaks and beautiful countryside. I was very impressed with the architecture of the properties and the location is great. Compared with other rental properties I viewed in the area, it was significantly superior in location, size, specification and amenities.

“As well as travelling to my offices in Knutsford and Leeds, I also work from home, and I have converted the smaller bedroom into an office to do so in comfort. I have easy access to the M1 as well as a spectacular drive across the Peak District.

“I have enjoyed being able to get out and walk in the countryside as well as being near to good shops, bars and restaurants. Moving to the middle of nowhere after being in London would have been a challenge – here I have the happy medium.”