Winchester is a location that seems to divide opinion - some see it as a tranquil city in the heart of Hampshire, while others think of it as an over-priced, rather dull place to live.

Before looking at the positive aspects of living in Winchester, let's take a look at some of the key criticisms that are levelled against the city.

The first is that the city's streets are struggling under the weight of traffic. It's certainly true that the street layout of Winchester largely reflects the original street plans that date back to Roman and Saxon times.

More people commute to Winchester than travel from the city to work elsewhere, meaning that routes into the city are extremely busy during the mornings, while routes out of Winchester are busy late afternoon.

This is not a problem that is peculiar to Winchester and tends to effect commuters more than residents but if you are worried about traffic noise then you would be wise not to purchase a property in one of the busier streets.

Reading various comments produced on the internet, you can be forgiven for believing that Winchester has a rowdy culture that is out of control. Fortunately, to give such an impression is incorrect.

The city does have a large student population and the pubs and bars along Jewry Street, in particular, are extremely popular. Levels of noise and general rowdy behaviour are still considerably lower than you would find in Portsmouth or Southampton, for instance.

Looking at the positive aspects of living in Winchester, you'll find that crime rates here are very low and that the local schools score extremely well in education league tables.

The city has excellent transport links too, with a mainline railway station providing a direct route to London Waterloo in less than an hour. For those who enjoy rural pursuits, Winchester is surrounded by some of Hampshire's finest countryside, while the New Forest can be reached in 20 minutes.

Much of the housing stock here consists of fine, period properties. This is a place full of history and character.

Don't be put off living in Winchester - come and find out what it's like.