Jack Masterson, 36, a videographer from Huddersfield, and his wife Natalie, 35, a former NHS nurse, made the bold decision in 2025 to relocate to North Vancouver, Canada, with their two young children. For the family, the move chased adventure, better work-life balance and a fresh start – dreams shared by many UK families.
Dreaming of a different life overseas
Like many families thinking about moving from the UK, their journey began with a simple question they couldn’t shake: what if we tried something else?
“For years, Natalie and I both had this nagging question in the back of our minds: ‘What if we moved elsewhere?’” Jack says. “Then the conversation quite quickly became ‘where and when’.”
They wanted more outdoor space and family time for their fast-growing children. Canada stood out for its scenery, friendliness and the balance between city life and nature. Curiosity soon turned into research on visas, jobs and shipping.
Why Canada made sense for their family
For Natalie, a former NHS nurse, the real turning point was discovering Canada’s targeted pathway for healthcare workers. The Express Entry route offered a clear, structured way into the country for people with in-demand skills, including nursing.
It felt like the perfect fit. Natalie’s background matched what Canada needed, and the visa gave the family a realistic timeline and route forward. “With this option available to our family, Canada became a no-brainer,” Jack explains. “They’re short on nurses over here. If you can do it and want an adventure, look no further.”
It aligned with their lifestyle goals too: clean air, strong public services and an outdoor-focused way of living. Natalie could use her skills in a new setting; the family gained space and new opportunities.
Taking the leap: from Huddersfield to North Vancouver
Once the decision was made, things moved quickly. Natalie travelled out first in March to get settled and start work. Jack followed shortly after with the children, saying goodbye to their life in Huddersfield and stepping into a very different landscape within six months.
“Life here is such a drastic change from Yorkshire,” Jack says. North Vancouver sits just across the water from downtown Vancouver but feels calmer and closer to nature. Their new neighbourhood has forest trails, mountain views and local parks as part of everyday life rather than just holiday escapes.
Back in the UK, Jack ran a videography business. In Canada, he has been rebuilding his client base while also enjoying a bit more space to breathe. “It’s given me the opportunity to explore, ski and hike around Lynn Canyon Park with the family,” he says.
Settling into British Columbia life
One of the biggest surprises has been how many other Brits they’ve met. British Columbia has long been popular with people relocating from the UK, and North Vancouver in particular has a strong expat community.
“There’s a reason it’s called British Columbia – it’s because there are so many Brits here,” Jack laughs. Locals even have a nickname for British expats: “limey”, a throwback to old sailing days when sailors were given limes to prevent scurvy.
For the children, this mix of familiarity and newness has helped. They’ve adapted quickly to their new surroundings, spending more time outside and getting used to school days that come with mountain backdrops rather than terraced streets. Weekend plans now often involve walks, trails or exploring new corners of the region.
What they miss and what feels worth it
No move is perfect, and Jack is upfront about the adjustments. The cost of living broadly aligns with the UK – a loaf of bread can cost around CA$5 (£2.50), and while taxes may be lower, everyday prices can still sting post-COVID. Tipping culture also baffles him.
Pubs top the “things we miss” list. “Microbreweries are ace, but the pub is a British institution,” Jack notes. In British Columbia, supermarkets don’t sell beer – you have to go to government liquor stores instead. It’s sparked half-serious chats among local Brits about opening an English-style pub in Lynn Canyon, blending Yorkshire charm with Canadian views.
Yet the upsides dominate. “In comparison to Yorkshire, you’re just in a prettier place,” Jack says. Short drives to trails, lakes or viewpoints deliver instant adventure. Cleaner air, friendlier vibes and family-focused days make the quirks fade. “Life in Vancouver has been an adjustment, but one I wouldn’t change.”
Getting support with the move
The family’s UK to Canada move was supported by John Mason International. With decades of experience helping families relocate, we provided tailored services to make the process as stress-free as possible.
Our expertise in international shipping, customs clearance and logistics meant Jack and Natalie could focus on settling in. With UK emigration on the rise and a growing number of moves to Canada, we’re proud to partner with families on journeys like theirs.
For families inspired by their story, take a look at our resources on moving to Canada from the UK. They cover Express Entry, healthcare pathways, shipping and more to help you plan your own Canadian adventure.