Surrey, located in the southeast of England, offers a variety of attractive places to live, each with its own unique characteristics, amenities, and lifestyle benefits. Here are some of the best places to live in Surrey:
1. Guildford
- Description: A historic town with a vibrant atmosphere, excellent shopping, dining options, and cultural attractions.
- Amenities: Guildford offers a mix of independent shops, high street brands, and a bustling market. It has good schools, leisure facilities, and access to green spaces like Stoke Park.
- Transport Links: Direct train links to London Waterloo in about 35-40 minutes.
- Attractions: Guildford Castle, Guildford Cathedral, and the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty nearby.
2. Woking
- Description: A diverse town with modern developments and cultural diversity.
- Amenities: The town center features shopping malls, restaurants, and theaters. Woking Park and nearby countryside provide recreational opportunities.
- Transport Links: Excellent rail connections to London Waterloo and easy access to the M25.
- Attractions: The Lightbox gallery and museum, New Victoria Theatre, and the Basingstoke Canal.
3. Epsom
- Description: Known for its famous Epsom Downs racecourse and historic market town charm.
- Amenities: Epsom has a mix of high street and independent shops, good schools, and recreational facilities.
- Transport Links: Direct trains to London Victoria and Waterloo, and easy access to the M25.
- Attractions: Epsom Downs Racecourse, Epsom Playhouse, and the Downs nearby for walking and leisure.
4. Farnham
- Description: A picturesque town with Georgian architecture and a strong sense of community.
- Amenities: Farnham offers boutique shops, cafes, and markets. It has good schools and is surrounded by countryside for outdoor activities.
- Transport Links: Mainline train services to London Waterloo, and access to the A31 for commuting.
- Attractions: Farnham Castle, Farnham Park, and Alice Holt Forest for outdoor pursuits.
5. Reigate
- Description: A market town with a historic feel and attractive surroundings.
- Amenities: Reigate boasts a mix of shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities. It has good schools and parks like Priory Park.
- Transport Links: Direct train services to London Victoria and London Bridge, and proximity to the M25.
- Attractions: Reigate Caves, Reigate Hill and Gatton Park for scenic walks, and nearby Box Hill.
6. Cobham
- Description: A desirable village with a blend of traditional charm and modern amenities.
- Amenities: Cobham offers boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. It has excellent schools and recreational facilities like Painshill Park.
- Transport Links: Close to the A3 for commuting to London, and nearby rail links at stations like Cobham & Stoke d’Abernon.
- Attractions: Painshill Park, Cobham Mill, and countryside walks along the River Mole.
7. Leatherhead
- Description: A historic market town with a riverside setting and convenient amenities.
- Amenities: Leatherhead features shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities. It has good schools and access to green spaces like Norbury Park.
- Transport Links: Direct train services to London Victoria and Waterloo, and easy access to the M25.
- Attractions: The Swan Shopping Centre, Polesden Lacey estate, and the River Mole for walks and nature.
Summary:
Surrey offers a range of towns and villages, each with its own appeal based on lifestyle preferences, commuting needs, and local amenities. Whether you prefer a historic market town like Guildford or a picturesque village like Cobham, Surrey provides a variety of options for a desirable place to live within easy reach of London and surrounded by beautiful countryside.