Charlotte
Born and raised in Norwich, Charlotte spent seven years living in London before choosing to return to her home city, in search of an affordable home and a better quality of life. When she’s not wild swimming with friends, she’s living her best life in NR3 and working for an industry-leading sustainability company.
The leap from London
I’m originally from Norwich. I moved away for university to Manchester and then to London to work. I loved it there, but I always knew I wanted a better quality of life – and I couldn’t afford to get on the property ladder in London.
In 2018 I was travelling on a sabbatical from my job and had a bit of an epiphany. I was ready to move back to Norwich. Living here is great – there’s lots going on. You’re close to the countryside and the beach. It’s cheaper, so you’ve got more money in your pocket. And it’s a slower pace of life, which is nice.
World of work
I moved here without a job, which was a bit daunting, but got one within two weeks. Now I’m an account manager, looking after corporate accounts for companies, doing sales, and project managing. I work for a sustainability tech company in Norwich. I still work hard, but there’s no commuting time. And it’s so easy to meet friends after work, while in London I would easily spend an hour on the Tube.
Diving right in
Me and my friends started a wild swimming group in lockdown as a way to meet up outside. Now we go come rain or shine, and in the depths of winter. We call ourselves the Norfolk Nutters!
We’ll car share to the beach or the Broads first thing or after work. Our favourite spots are Trimingham, Sea Palling, Waxham, Ebridge Mill or near Trowse in Norwich. It’s so nice to be out in nature. Compared to swimming in London, it’s easier, freer and you don’t have to queue.
There’s no place like home
Here, I’ve been able to afford my own house and get Rufus, my dog! I can walk into the city, which has everything you need. I love being near to green spaces too. There’s so much culture, and music, and food to enjoy. And it’s a friendly, community-driven city. If you don’t know anyone, there are lots of groups you can join. I’ve met really nice people at work, at life drawing classes, and through swimming.
