When people ask me what it’s like to live in Oswestry, I always smile because it’s a question I genuinely enjoy answering. Not just because I own Daniel James Residential, but because this is home for me and my family.
We didn’t end up in Oswestry by chance. Like many people considering a move, we did our research. We looked at what different towns had to offer, compared property prices, considered schools, transport links and lifestyle, and for us, Oswestry stood out.
Now, having lived here for a number of years, I can honestly say it was one of the best decisions we made.
A Market Town That Hasn’t Lost Its Character
One of the things I love most about Oswestry is that it has managed to keep its identity as a traditional market town while continuing to evolve.
The town centre is full of independent shops, cafés, restaurants and local businesses that give it a real sense of character. Rather than feeling dominated by national chains, there is still a strong independent spirit, and I think that’s something residents are incredibly proud of.
On Wednesdays and Fridays, the town comes alive with the traditional market. Whether you’re looking for fresh produce, local crafts or simply enjoying a wander through the stalls with a coffee in hand, it’s a reminder of what makes Oswestry different from many larger towns.
Everything You Need, Close to Home
One of the biggest advantages of living here is convenience.
Oswestry has an excellent range of supermarkets, leisure facilities, healthcare services, cafés, restaurants and retail parks, meaning you rarely have to travel far for your everyday needs.
Despite being a relatively small market town, it offers an impressive range of amenities that many people don’t expect until they visit.
A Wonderful Place to Raise a Family
As a father, this is probably the part that means the most to me.
Our children attend one of the excellent local schools, and we’ve been incredibly pleased with the education and opportunities available to them.
One place our family regularly visits is Cae Glas Park. It’s beautifully maintained and right in the heart of the town. Whether it’s taking the children to the play area, enjoying an ice cream during the summer or simply spending an afternoon outdoors, it’s somewhere we’ve made countless family memories.
It’s these little moments that make somewhere feel like home.
A Real Sense of Community
One thing that immediately stood out after moving here was the community spirit.
People genuinely look after one another. Local businesses support each other, community events are well attended and there is a real pride in the town.
As someone who works with buyers relocating from across the country, this is something many of them comment on once they’ve settled in.
Oswestry feels welcoming.
The Gateway to North Wales
Location is another huge advantage.
Living in Oswestry means you’re only a short drive from North Wales, giving you easy access to some of the country’s most beautiful scenery.
Whether it’s a walk around Llyn Tegid, exploring the mountains of Eryri National Park or spending a day on the coast, everything feels within easy reach.
It’s one of the reasons we chose Oswestry in the first place.
Fantastic Transport Links
Although Oswestry offers the lifestyle of a market town, you’re still incredibly well connected.
Gobowen railway station is just a few minutes away and provides straightforward rail connections to Shrewsbury and Chester, making commuting or enjoying a day out simple.
For those travelling further afield, you’re also well positioned for several major airports.
Within around an hour to an hour and a half, you can reach airports including Liverpool John Lennon Airport, Manchester Airport and Birmingham Airport, making both UK and international travel convenient.
More House for Your Money
Working as an estate agent gives me a unique perspective on the local property market.
One thing I regularly discuss with buyers relocating from elsewhere is value for money.
Compared with nearby towns such as Shrewsbury, buyers can often secure a larger property, a bigger garden or a more desirable location for the same budget in Oswestry.
For many families, that difference can be significant.
It’s one of the reasons we’re seeing increasing interest from people moving from larger towns and cities who want more space without compromising on lifestyle.
If You Love the Outdoors, You’ll Love Shropshire
One of the biggest reasons we chose this part of the country was the quality of life.
Shropshire is, in my opinion, one of England’s most beautiful counties.
Rolling countryside, picturesque villages, walking trails, canals, hills and open spaces are all on your doorstep.
Whether you enjoy walking, cycling, running or simply getting outside with the family, there is no shortage of places to explore.
Living here encourages a slower pace of life without sacrificing convenience, and that’s something we really value.
Why We Chose Oswestry
When we were deciding where to live, we wanted somewhere that balanced family life, affordability, community and accessibility.
Oswestry ticked every box.
It offered excellent schools, fantastic amenities, beautiful countryside, easy transport links and more property for our budget than many neighbouring towns.
Several years later, I can honestly say we’d make the same decision again.
As both a resident and an estate agent, I feel incredibly fortunate to call Oswestry home.
If you’re considering moving to the area and would like honest, local advice from someone who both lives and works here, I’d be delighted to help.
Daniel James McGowran MNAEA
Daniel James Residential