A father decided to leave his high-paying job in the United States to move to Yorkshire, England, with his family in search of a different lifestyle. Tom Bateman, 35, and his wife Brittany, 36, had been living in the US for 17 years but wanted to raise their four children in England.
Tom, who had a successful career in corporate marketing earning over $200,000 (£150,000) annually, felt constrained by his achievements and missed the British sense of humor and wit. To be closer to family and create a more fulfilling life, he opted to take an 80% pay cut to work alongside his father in Bradford, teaching children bike lessons for £30,000 a year. The family embraced downsizing, selling off their possessions in the US to adapt to their new circumstances.
Reflecting on his decision, Tom explained, “I found myself increasingly tied down by the trappings of success. I wanted a change, to connect more with my roots and loved ones.” Tom and Brittany, who first met in York at 17, had been shuttling between the UK and the US before settling in California and starting a family.
Despite enjoying their time in various American cities, Tom felt a growing yearning for the subtle nuances of British culture, especially the humor and social interactions unique to the UK. Missing his family and prompted by personal loss, including the untimely death of his older brother in 2016, Tom decided it was time to prioritize his relationships and return to his homeland.
Brittany, who homeschools their children, eagerly anticipates the move, drawn to the charm of English countryside living with its quaint villages and footpaths. Their two dogs, Charlie and Mabel, will also join them on their transatlantic journey. Tom is excited about rediscovering British delights like Greggs pastries, authentic curry, and a pint at the local pub.
The couple is enthusiastic about exploring the Yorkshire Dales at a leisurely pace, free from the constraints of short vacations. As they prepare to move, the reality of their life-changing choice is beginning to sink in, with Tom musing about how the transition will feel once they touch down in England.