Why more families than ever are moving to France

Good schools, medical care, a wealth of family homes and the promise of more sun are luring an increasing number of British families over the channel. But could you be tempted?

Cycling to the local village to stock up on croissants, outdoorsy-summers spent at the beach and gorgeous properties with huge gardens - there's no doubt our neighbours over the channel in France have a lifestyle that appeals to anyone with young children.  

And for an increasing number of British families, France is more than just a holiday destination, it's somewhere they've put down firm roots.  

READ MORE: Why there's never been a better time to buy a chateau in France

According to the latest research, France is the top location of choice for British families emigrating to the EU.

New figures released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that over a third of British children living overseas are growing up in France.

In 2017 there were 20,100 British children living in France, that's 34% of all British kids living in the EU.

"French family homes offer excellent value for money and the education system is very thorough, challenging children to achieve their full potential. Add to that some stunning rural and coastal scenery, and a choice of vibrant cities, and it's easy to see why France is home to more British children than any other EU country," says Fleur Buckley, property services manager for FrenchEntree, which helps British families relocate to France. 

Making the move abroad

And it’s not just those of us with kids who can see the benefit of moving across the Channel, with further research showing that France is now the second most popular country overall (after Spain) for emigrating Britons in general.

While France has long attracted retirees hoping to live out their golden years, figures show that it's not just older UK citizens chasing a romantic dream, 68% of Britons moving to France are aged 15-64 with many are looking for employment.

So if you think you could be tempted, here are five French family homes for sale right now:

Traditional stone farmhouse, £202,477 (€230,000) listed online with French Entree

Set in the rural idyll of Normandy, this 3-bed detached property comes with 9.5 acres of its own grounds, which include an orchard and an old stone bakery.

Barn conversion in the mid-Pyrenees, £150,714 (€171,200) Rightmove

This two-bed converted barn comes with two guest cottages, plus planning permission to convert the barn further. Set on a quiet lane with gardens extending to woodland and fields. It’s the perfect spot to live out the good life.

Aquitaine house with large pool, £348,000 (€395,000)  Rightmove

Just a 10-minute walk from the Bastide town of Monflanquin, which maintains a strong sense of community, this three-bed house comes with a big swimming pool, plenty of outdoor space, a garage and oodles of character.

Modern house full of character, £233,357 (€265,000) French Entree

It’s hard to believe this detached property in Normandy was only built 6 years ago. It has been sensitively designed in keeping with its surroundings and though it looks historic, it benefits from a contemporary build, which includes full insulation and double-glazing throughout. It’s also within walking distance of the local school.

Ready-to-go gite/B&B in the south of France, £700,071 (€795,000)  French Entree

If you’re looking for a place in the sun with a job thrown in, then this could be for you. Set just outside Beziers, this gorgeous completely renovated property comes with eight bedrooms, a pool, gym, and three kitchens, meaning your dream of running a guest home could soon be realised.