Why moving to Surrey holds such appeal: Expert insights
Moving to Surrey is an ever-popular choice for homebuyers looking for a quieter pace whilst maintaining proximity to London.
Surrey is one of the most sought-after counties for families looking to move from London, ex-pats returning to the UK, and foreign nationals wanting a sizeable home with exceptional links to London and its airports.
The county provides a mix of housing, whether in beautiful countryside, in or close to idyllic villages, or family homes in bustling towns and villages. Properties range from those set in manageable plots to mansions in gated developments. Surrey can cater to all requirements!
Garrington’s Maddy Simpson, a specialist buying agent for Surrey, shares her insights into why moving to Surrey is such a popular choice for homebuyers.
Surrey’s property market
Surrey is a magnet for families owing to its exceptional train and road commuter links, excellent schools, and vibrant high streets and communities.
Most purchasers aim to strike a balance between accessibility and tranquillity, usually opting for houses in towns or villages with a strong sense of community.
Family-friendly commuter locations in Surrey
Surrey’s unrivalled connectivity to London makes it an ideal choice for commuters. Four differing locations that exemplify the options in Surrey are:
Esher & Cobham – Both 30 minutes to London Waterloo
Esher and Cobham are popular locations for those who want greater space but are very London-centric. They are also a magnet for international buyers due to their easy access to London and Heathrow. They offer both quick train commutes from their respective stations as well as convenient travel to London via the A3.
These towns offer a mixture of property styles from cottages and family houses to gated developments. They both have vibrant high streets with boutique shops and restaurants. Plenty of good schools, both state and private; Esher 6th Form College is very well regarded. There are also great sports clubs and exclusive golf clubs.
Whilst close to London, rural Surrey is still easily accessible for walking and cycling.
Woking – 26 minutes to London Waterloo
Woking station, with its extremely fast train service to London, is a prime commuter station for the residents of Woking, Virginia Water, Chobham, Ripley, and smaller surrounding villages.
It provides great access to London, the countryside, and the convenience of a host of busy and charming towns and villages all with great shops, restaurants, theatres and pubs.
Education is well catered for in the state sector and there is easy access to private schools in the immediate and wider area.
Guildford – 38 minutes to London Waterloo
Guildford, Surrey’s county town, is a thriving business district and a hub for property seekers wanting a speedy commute. The surrounding Surrey Hills features picturesque villages with breathtaking views, great for walking and cycling.
Known for its vibrant cobbled High Street, the town is home to fantastic shops, restaurants, and clubs. It also offers excellent entertainment opportunities such as the renowned Yvonne Arnaud and G Live theatres, together with other smaller venues.
You can enjoy peaceful walks along the river Wey and around the grounds of Guildford Castle.
Schools in the Guildford area are second to none with educational offerings ranging from highly considered state primary and secondary schools, and 6th-form colleges, to top-performing private schools within the town and surrounding area.
These include Godalming 6th Form College, the Royal Grammar School (boys), Guildford High School (girls), Tormead (girls), Cranleigh School (co-ed & boarding) and Charterhouse (co-ed & boarding).
Farnham – 55 minutes to London Waterloo
This Georgian market town provides a slightly longer train commute to London Waterloo, however, its unique family-friendly and community-oriented atmosphere together with its rural environs and good access to the A3 make it a firm favourite.
Its Georgian streets and the 12th-century Farnham Castle reflect its rich heritage. Additionally, its plethora of quality shops and restaurants, coupled with numerous sports clubs, societies, and arts scene at The Maltings creates an energetic atmosphere.
Surrounded by Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty with easy access to the Surrey Hills and Frensham Ponds, Farnham is perfect for outdoor activities.
Families are drawn to Farnham and its surrounding villages for their safe environment, exceptional schools, and sports and leisure activities.
Schools, both state and private are excellent. They include Rowledge, South Farnham School, Weydon (all state), Edgeborough, Barfield, Frensham Heights, and Lord Wandsworth College (all private).
Why Surrey appeals to young families
For families moving out of London, recreating the vibrancy and convenience of city life is often a priority. Surrey delivers on several fronts.
Its busy villages and numerous sports clubs and societies create a lively community atmosphere that helps families feel connected. The social buzz, coupled with excellent local amenities, makes the transition from urban to suburban, semi-rural, and rural living seamless.
Surrey provides families with access to many beautiful green spaces.
There are abundant areas to enjoy outdoor activities such as walking, running, cycling, or simply children being able to play in safe, picturesque surroundings.
Schools and accessibility are also a draw with top-rated schools and convenient access to train stations, motorways and airports, all adding to Surrey’s appeal.
Other family-friendly commuter locations in Surrey
In addition to the towns we have mentioned, Surrey has numerous other commuter towns and villages that are particularly well-suited to families. Here are some examples:
Haslemere – 55 minutes to London Waterloo
Another gem in Surrey’s crown is Haslemere. The town and its surrounding villages are home to charming period properties. Amenities are centred around the historic High Street with interesting boutique shops, cafes, and Wey Hill, which provides for more everyday shopping needs.
Due to its size, it provides a more intimate atmosphere than other locations. Good schools, both state and private are found within Haslemere and close by. The Surrey Hills and South Downs are right on the doorstep. Additionally, the Devil’s Punch Bowl provides a stunning landscape.
Dorking – 53 minutes to London Waterloo, London Bridge, and Victoria
Dorking benefits from being both in the Surrey Hills and having a vibrant town centre, filled with unique shops. Families benefit from excellent schools, while commuters appreciate easy access to London via the town’s three train stations.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Dorking is a hub for walking and cycling trails.
These include the Dorking Circular, and taking in the breathtaking views from Box and Leith Hill.
Godalming
Godalming is a picturesque market town, surrounded by beautiful countryside and the River Wey’s water meadows. Its nearby villages provide charming rural locations.
Educational opportunities include numerous primary and secondary schools, and the popular Charterhouse School, alongside the well-regarded Godalming 6th Form College making Godalming a desirable choice for families moving to Surrey.
Cranleigh
Cranleigh is considered England’s largest village and offers a combination of small-town charm, excellent amenities, and pretty surrounding villages. Near to the Surrey Hills and South Downs, it offers a vibrant mix of independent restaurants, cafés, shops, and great pubs.
Cranleigh School is very well regarded both locally and further afield. There are also a plethora of other excellent state and private schools.
All these locations benefit from easy access to Heathrow and Gatwick airports, major road networks, and reliable train services.
The role of a Surrey buying agent
For those considering moving to Surrey, engaging a buying agent can transform the experience. Maddy Simpson outlines the value she brings to her clients:
- Establishing the Brief: A clear understanding of the client’s needs forms the foundation of every property search. Once agreed, expertise is applied to identify properties that meet these requirements.
- Access to Off-Market Opportunities: With extensive industry contacts and a proactive approach, hidden opportunities not publicly listed can be uncovered, providing clients with a valuable advantage.
- Comprehensive Support: From previewing properties and curating shortlists to negotiating offers and overseeing the legal process, a seamless service is offered from start to finish. This approach helps clients save significant time, money, and effort throughout the process.
Moving to Surrey
The combination of excellent transport links, stunning countryside, and vibrant communities make moving to Surrey a prime choice for families, and with many sought-locations offering less than a 30-minute commute to London, it’s great for professionals.
With expert guidance from a buying agent, finding your ideal property in this remarkable county becomes an efficient and rewarding journey.
If you are considering moving to Surrey, Garrington can provide expert help and guidance for your property search. Contact Garrington to discuss your plans without obligation.
