Hillside sits in a family-friendly pocket of Somerset where good schools, low crime and solid air quality run through every corner of the area. Schools are a real strength throughout, from the Outstanding primary in Redfield to Westfield's Good-rated primary and the well-regarded secondaries near Mendip Hills, giving families plenty of confidence whichever part they settle in. Crime rates sit below the national average across the board, with Westfield seeing a particularly sharp drop over the past two years, and the whole suburb benefits from clean air and a settled, community feel. House prices offer good value compared to surrounding areas, with Westfield standing out for detached and terraced homes and Midsomer Norton North offering particularly competitive flats. Mendip Hills pushes this further, with rural pricing that beats the national average, though you're trading that value for distance from everyday amenities. That's the main divide within Hillside: Redfield and Westfield give you walkable high streets, supermarkets, GP surgeries and pharmacies on the doorstep, while Midsomer Norton North and Mendip Hills lean on nearby towns for these essentials. Transport is largely car-dependent, with the A362, A37 and A367 providing the main links to Bath and surrounding towns, though Redfield's railway station is a useful exception for commuters wanting to skip the roads. Over a third of Mendip Hills residents work from home, reflecting its quieter, more rural character, whereas Redfield and Westfield suit those wanting village convenience without sacrificing transport options. Whichever neighbourhood you choose, Hillside delivers a practical, settled base with strong schools and reliable value for buyers prioritising family life over city-centre buzz.