Best places to live in Surrey

Many people consider Surrey to be a great county, but for those wishing to move there, a key question is, where are the best places to live in Surrey?

Whether you are looking for a cosmopolitan town or a quiet, pretty village, Surrey won’t disappoint. Throw in its areas of outstanding natural beauty, great education options, easy commuter links to London, plus proximity to Gatwick and Heathrow Airports, and it has something for everyone.

Discovering the best places to live in Surrey

Here we explore some of the best places to live in Surrey, including just a few of the county’s many hidden gems.

Epsom

Epsom is one of the premier locations to reside in the region. Its proximity to the capital allows for a commute to London in under an hour by train.

The town offers a broad mix of homes, from Georgian and Victorian properties to modern developments. Sought-after residential areas include gated developments that offer privacy and exclusivity. The Ridge and the Woodcote Estate are particularly desirable, known for their spacious, high-quality homes set on tree-lined roads.

Epsom’s excellent schools make it one of the best places to live in Surrey for families. Esteemed options include Rosebery School, a high-performing girls’ secondary, and Epsom College, a prestigious independent co-educational school. For further education, North East Surrey College of Technology (NESCOT) offers a range of academic and vocational courses.

Epsom’s heritage is reflected in its listed buildings and historic market town status.

Spaces such as Epsom Common and Epsom Downs provide opportunities for outdoor pursuits. Nearby Kingston upon Thames offers additional amenities and riverside attractions.

Commuters benefit from direct rail links to London Waterloo, Victoria, and London Bridge. Additionally, the A24 and M25 provide easy road connections. Epsom stands out not only for its market town vibrancy but also for its cultural significance. It is the namesake for the famous Epsom Salts and home to the Derby at Epsom Downs.

Situated between Epsom and Ashtead, the Royal Automobile Club (RAC) at Woodcote Park is set within 350 acres of Surrey countryside. The club offers extensive facilities. There are two 18-hole downland golf courses, squash and tennis courts, a gym, and a full-size indoor swimming pool. Additionally, the club has treatment rooms and a choice of three restaurants, as well as bars.

Godalming

Godalming is one of Surrey’s most attractive market towns, known for its period architecture and high-performing schools. Its position on the River Wey, surrounded by countryside, contributes to its reputation for being one of the best places to live in Surrey.

The town offers a mix of Georgian, Victorian, and contemporary homes, catering to a range of buyers. Queen Elizabeth I granted it borough status in 1575. In 1881, it became the first town in England to have a public electricity supply.

Godalming has five conservation areas and 350 listed buildings, reflecting its long history as a marketplace since Anglo-Saxon and Roman times.

Busbridge Infant School and St Mary’s Church of England Voluntary Controlled Infant School are popular choices at primary level. Secondary options include both state and independent schools. The most notable is Charterhouse, one of the UK’s leading co-educational boarding and day schools, founded in 1611. Godalming College provides a well-regarded sixth-form education.

Regular rail services connect the town to London Waterloo in as little as 39 minutes, with increased frequency during peak hours. The A3 trunk road provides easy access to the capital and the southwest. Guildford, home to the University of Surrey, is just five miles away.

Although within easy reach of London, Godalming retains a rural character. With water meadows, heathland, and wooded hills, it offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor pursuits. A selection of traditional inns and hotels also attracts visitors looking to experience this part of Surrey.

Farncombe

A stone’s throw from Godalming, Farncombe is an increasingly sought-after village for homebuyers. The area offers a mix of period and modern homes, with a strong local identity.

Farncombe has access to a well-regarded selection of schools and Farncombe railway station provides direct services to London Waterloo, making it a practical choice for commuters.

Reigate

The market town of Reigate blends heritage and contemporary living, making it one of the best places to live in Surrey.

Founded in 1675, Reigate Grammar School is one of the country’s top-performing independent schools. Reigate College provides highly regarded sixth-form education. Nearby in Dorking, the Priory Church of England School and The Ashcombe School serve secondary-age students.

Reigate retains its market town character, with a vibrant high street lined with independent boutiques, cafés, and restaurants. The historic Market Place remains a focal point, while Reigate Castle and the Old Town Hall reflect the town’s rich heritage. Green spaces such as Priory Park and the nearby Surrey Hills contribute to the town’s appeal.

Its railway station provides direct services to London Bridge and London Victoria. The M25 is nearby, ensuring convenient road access to Gatwick, Heathrow, and beyond.

Farnham

Farnham is a popular market town less than an hour from London by train. With excellent schools, striking Georgian architecture, and access to the Surrey Hills and North Downs, it is consistently considered one of the best places to live in Surrey.

Farnham has a strong sense of character, with its 12th-century castle and historic streets. Castle Street forms the architectural heart of the town, while the nearby Lion and Lamb Yard is home to a mix of independent boutiques, wine merchants, cafés, and eateries.

With regular farmers’ and craft markets, Farnham retains its market-town heritage. The town is also well known for its antiques and vintage markets, with venues such as the Farnham Maltings celebrating its creative heritage.

The surrounding countryside is idyllic, including Bourne Woods, a beautiful ancient woodland with great amenities that has provided the perfect backdrop for TV hits such as Gladiator and House of the Dragon, the prequel to Game of Thrones.

Frensham Common, an area of 922 acres of heathland, is home to Frensham Ponds. On the northern edge of the pond, organised wild swims take place with a focus on mental well-being. Nearby, Frensham Little Pond offers peaceful walking routes and picnic spots and is recognised as a haven for local wildlife.

The Great Pond is notable for its two sandy ‘beaches’, making it a popular spot for family outings and summer picnics.

South Farnham School is a high-achieving primary, while Frensham Heights and Edgeborough Prep School offer great independent options. The University for the Creative Arts adds to Farnham’s reputation as a hub for design and the arts.

Farnham benefits from regular rail services to London Waterloo. The A31 and A3 provide direct road links to the capital and the South Coast. The nearby M3 and M25 ensure wider connectivity across the UK.

Guildford

Guildford offers the best of both worlds—an energetic town atmosphere combined with easy access to the Surrey Hills. The town provides a diverse range of properties, from period homes in its historic centre to modern developments on the outskirts.

Guildford Castle and the cobbled High Street reflect its long history, while its vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment options make it a hub for both residents and visitors. The surrounding countryside offers scenic walking and cycling routes for those seeking a break from urban life.

The Royal Grammar School, founded in the 16th century, is among the country’s top-performing schools. Guildford High School and Tormead are also popular choices. Additionally, the University of Surrey is a leading research institution with an international reputation.

Fast and frequent rail services connect Guildford to London Waterloo. The A3 and M25 provide convenient road links to the capital and beyond. The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre and G Live host a varied programme of performances, and a strong community feel remains despite Guildford’s size.

Cobham

Just 25 miles from central London, another of the best places to live in Surrey is Cobham, a large village and one of Surrey’s most sought-after locations. With prestigious properties, gated developments containing large, detached houses, smart apartments, and leafy surroundings, it attracts those looking for a peaceful and elegant lifestyle.  

Despite its size, Cobham retains a village atmosphere, shaped by its historic roots in the three smaller communities of Street Cobham, Church Cobham, and Downside. The area offers a wealth of independent shops, restaurants, and traditional pubs, reinforcing its friendly character.

Education is a key draw for families. There are numerous primary and secondary schools in and around the area, spanning state, independent, and private options. Parkside School, a private prep school, and Reeds School, an independent secondary are two examples of the esteemed schools in Cobham. Additionally, there is the ACS International School. Further education is available at nearby Brooklands College, while the University of Surrey provides higher education opportunities.

Cobham benefits from strong road and rail links. The A3 provides a direct route into London and connects to the M25 at Junction 10. Trains from Cobham & Stoke d’Abernon station reach London in around 40 minutes. Nearby Surbiton and Esher stations offer even faster journeys of approximately 30 minutes.

Surrounded by stunning countryside, Cobham is close to landmarks such as Box Hill, Leith Hill, and Holmbury Hill. Painshill Park, Claremont Gardens, and the RHS Gardens at Wisley add to the area’s appeal.

The village of Oxshott is close by with Danes Hill School, a leading independent preparatory school located there. With beautiful green spaces including Oxshott Heath, and private developments, Oxshott is another desirable location for those looking for a village setting.

Haslemere

Haslemere is a historic market town approximately 38 miles southwest of London. Set within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty between the scenic hills of Hindhead and Blackdown, the area offers truly stunning countryside.

The town centre features timbered and tile-hung houses, and a popular high street complemented by a variety of independent shops, cafés, and restaurants. Swan Barn Farm, managed by the National Trust, serves as a gateway to some of Surrey and Sussex’s most beautiful countryside and marks the start of the 64-mile-long Serpent Trail.

Cultural amenities include the Haslemere Educational Museum, which offers insights into local history and natural sciences and the nearby Cowdray Farm Shop is a popular place to visit. Haslemere is well-connected by rail, with its station offering services to London and Portsmouth, making it a convenient location for commuters.

The town’s proximity to the South Downs National Park provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, including walking and cycling. There are quality education options in the area, catering to various age groups, including Woolmer Hill, Bohunt School, Highfield and St Ives.

Esher

The charming town of Esher is one of Surrey’s most sought-after locations. With a vibrant high street, excellent schools, and proximity to London, it appeals to families and professionals seeking a balance of town and country living.

Esher Church School provides primary education, while Esher Church of England High School serves secondary-age students. The town is also home to Esher Sixth Form College, which is highly regarded for its academic performance and wide course offering. For younger children, nearby Shrewsbury House Pre-Preparatory School provides independent education.

Just two miles from Esher, the neighbouring village of Claygate is equally popular. Claygate offers good schools, and a thriving parade of independent shops and cafés along its lovely high street. There is also a railway station with regular services to London Waterloo.

Esher itself boasts a lively town centre, with a mix of boutiques, restaurants and larger retailers.

Esher Theatre adds to the cultural offering. Green spaces such as Esher Common and Sandown Park Racecourse offer leisure opportunities. The town has regular trains to London Waterloo and quick road access via the A3 and M25. Its comprehensive amenities, picturesque surroundings, and convenient travel links put Esher among the best places to live in Surrey.

West Molesey and East Molesey

West Molesey is one of two villages, alongside East Molesey, that make up the broader area of Molesey in the borough of Elmbridge, Surrey.

While the two villages share historical roots and a riverside setting, West Molesey offers a quieter, more residential feel, making it especially popular with families seeking space and access to green open spaces.

The area is home to St Lawrence Church of England Junior School, with several other primary and secondary options available nearby. East Molesey, just across the River Mole, provides additional schooling options and amenities, contributing to the overall appeal of the area.

West Molesey has independent shops, and local cafés. There is easy access to open spaces such as Hurst Park and the towpaths of the River Thames. Molesey Lock, on the edge of the village, is a popular spot for walking and boating.

For commuters, nearby Hampton Court Station in East Molesey offers regular services to London Waterloo. Road links via the A308 and proximity to the A3 and M25 make travel straightforward by car.

Leatherhead

Leatherhead is a popular town with a rich heritage, reflected in its listed buildings and archaeological finds dating back to Anglo-Saxon and Roman times.

Set on the banks of the River Mole, Leatherhead acts as a gateway to the Surrey Hills, with Box Hill around five miles away.

There are numerous preschools, primary schools, and secondary schools in the area. St Peter’s Catholic Primary School is a popular choice for younger children. St John’s School, an independent secondary, is regarded as one of the best in Surrey. Kingston College provides further education options nearby.

Leatherhead’s connectivity makes it one of the best places to live in Surrey. Kingston upon Thames is within easy reach, offering riverside walks and additional amenities. Direct rail services connect Leatherhead to London Waterloo and Victoria in under an hour. The A24 links to the M25 at Junction 9, providing access to the UK’s wider motorway network. A drive into central London typically takes around an hour and a half.

The town hosts the Mole Valley Arts Alive Festival, and its high street features a mix of independent shops, well-known retailers, and popular pubs and restaurants, ensuring a lively atmosphere.

Dorking

The popular market town of Dorking is set within the picturesque Surrey Hills. It blends period architecture, excellent schools, and access to open countryside making it among the best places to live in Surrey.

The Ashcombe School and The Priory CofE School provide comprehensive secondary education, while there are a range of options for younger students. Reigate Grammar School, one of the country’s top independent schools, is a popular option nearby.

Dorking retains its market town character, with a vibrant high street, independent shops, and a thriving café culture. West Street is particularly known for its antique shops, while the town hosts regular markets and cultural events.

Additionally, it is home to Denbies Wine Estate, the largest vineyard in the UK, which has a varied calendar hosting everything from wine tasting to running events. The surrounding countryside offers ample walking and cycling opportunities, with Box Hill and Leith Hill providing panoramic views.

Dorking is well connected, with three railway stations—Dorking Main, Dorking Deepdene, and Dorking West—offering direct services to London. The A24 and A25 provide easy road access to the capital and surrounding areas.

Ashtead

With its blend of history and modernity, the sought-after village of Ashtead in the Mole Valley district is another of the best places to live in Surrey.

The City of London Freemen’s School, an independent day and boarding school, has been based in Ashtead Park since 1926. Maintained schools include Barnett Wood Infant School, The Greville Primary School, and West Ashtead Primary Academy.

Ashtead is supported by local organisations and a variety of shops, cafés, and essential services. The Ashtead Common nature reserve is just under 500 acres and offers ancient woodland, walking trails, and abundant wildlife. Additionally, the nearby Royal Automobile Club (RAC) offers intensive golfing and leisure facilities.

Ashtead railway station provides regular services to London Waterloo. The M25 is within easy reach, ensuring convenient road access to surrounding areas.

Tadworth and Epsom Downs

Tadworth, set alongside the renowned Epsom Downs, is considered one of the best places to live in Surrey for its rural tranquillity whilst being under an hour by train from the capital. The area is known for its excellent schools and the historic Epsom Downs Racecourse.

Housing options range from period cottages to modern family homes, attracting buyers in search of green space and a slower pace of life. The village atmosphere is complemented by the open landscapes of the Downs.

Tadworth Primary School and Chinthurst School are well regarded. The nearby City of London Freemen’s School in Ashtead provides an independent secondary education with a distinguished reputation. Rail services from Tadworth station provide direct routes to London Bridge and London Victoria. The M25 ensures easy road access to the wider motorway network.

Weybridge

Weybridge is set along the River Wey and River Thames and offers historical character and modernity in equal measures.

St George’s College is a well-regarded independent co-educational day school in the area, while Heathside School offers a popular state secondary option. Brooklands College serves as a further education provider, offering a range of courses for post-16 students.

One of the best places to live in Surrey, Weybridge has a vibrant high street, with a mix of independent boutiques, cafés, and well-known retailers. The town is also home to Brooklands Museum, which celebrates its pioneering motoring and aviation heritage.

Green spaces such as the Thames Path and Weybridge Heath provide opportunities for walking, cycling, and outdoor recreation. The town benefits from excellent transport links. Weybridge railway station offers direct services to London Waterloo, making it a popular choice for commuters. The M25 and A3 ensure convenient road access to London, Heathrow, and Gatwick.

Egham

Just 30 minutes from London by train, Egham offers a well-connected yet peaceful lifestyle. Known for its historic significance and proximity to Royal Holloway, University of London, the town blends heritage with modern development. Located near Runnymede, where the Magna Carta was signed in 1215, Egham enjoys a unique place in English history while providing access to scenic countryside and the River Thames.

The town is among the best places to live in Surrey with a lively high street with independent shops, while nearby Staines offers larger retail centres. Thorpe Park, one of the UK’s biggest theme parks, is just four miles away, and Windsor Castle and Great Park are within a short drive. Neighbouring Englefield Green is a beautiful village with a pretty village green ideal for relaxation and recreation.

The town is home to Strode’s College, a former grammar school now operating as a sixth-form college. The independent Sir William Perkins’s School for girls, which consistently achieves strong results, is nearby in Chertsey. The Magna Carta School, a specialist technology and ICT comprehensive school, serves pupils aged 11-16. The Royal Holloway campus of the University of London is just south of the town, adding to its academic appeal, and the ACS International School is nearby.

Egham railway station sits on the mainline between Reading, Weybridge, and London Waterloo, with frequent services and peak-time journeys taking just over half an hour. The town is also well positioned for road travel, lying just west of the M25 at Junction 13. Heathrow Airport is a short drive away.

Virginia Water

Virginia Water is one of Surrey’s most prestigious locations. Known for its exclusive gated estates, luxury homes, and serene natural surroundings, it is little wonder that it is considered one of the best places to live in Surrey.

The area is highly sought after by international buyers, drawn by its proximity to London, excellent transport links, including a mainline station with services to Waterloo, and strong local amenities. The community is centred around world-renowned venues such as Wentworth Club and nearby Sunningdale Golf Club.

Windsor Great Park and Virginia Water Lake offer expansive green spaces while families benefit from top-tier education options, including ACS International School.

Woking

Woking is a dynamic Surrey town offering a blend of urban convenience and access to open countryside. With modern developments, green spaces, and a thriving town centre, Woking continues to grow as a desirable place to live.

A mix of architectural styles, from period homes to contemporary high-rise developments can be found in Woking.

While it has undergone significant regeneration, Woking retains its links to Surrey’s heritage, with listed buildings and nearby attractions such as RHS Garden Wisley. Parks and eco-friendly initiatives reinforce its commitment to green living.

The well-regarded Woking College provides sixth-form education, while several leading international schools nearby broaden the academic options. The town’s schools cater to a range of needs, making it an attractive choice for families.

Woking station is a major commuter hub, with frequent fast trains to London Waterloo. By road, the A3 and M25 provide easy access to the capital and Heathrow and Gatwick airports.

The town continues to evolve, with ongoing redevelopment bringing new amenities, including shopping and cultural attractions, earning it its place in our best places to live in Surrey listing. The Peacocks Centre is a key retail destination, while the Lightbox gallery and museum contribute to Woking’s cultural appeal.

West Byfleet

The village of West Byfleet originally developed around its railway station and has grown into a thriving residential area with ongoing regeneration enhancing its appeal. It benefits from organisations such as the Byfleet, West Byfleet & Pyrford Residents’ Association playing a key role in local engagement. The village centre features a variety of shops, cafés, and essential services.

West Byfleet’s selection of well-regarded schools contributes to it being one of the best places to live in Surrey for families. West Byfleet Junior School provides a strong foundation for younger students. Nearby, Fullbrook School in New Haw offers a broad secondary curriculum and a reputation for academic excellence.

Near to West Byfleet, Basingstoke Canal provides scenic routes for walks and cycle rides.

The railway station offers direct services to London Waterloo, making it a popular choice for commuters. The A3 and M25 ensure easy road access to London, Heathrow, and the wider South East.

Cranleigh

Another of the best places to live in Surrey is Cranleigh. Surrounded by the Surrey Hills, it is often described as England’s largest village and appeals to those seeking a peaceful setting with easy access to larger towns.

Cranleigh School, an independent boarding school founded in 1865, is highly regarded for its academic and extracurricular programmes. St Joseph’s Specialist Trust provides tailored education for students with specific needs, while Cranleigh C of E Primary School offers a supportive learning environment for younger children.

Cranleigh residents benefit from local groups such as the Cranleigh History Society, fostering a strong connection to its heritage. The village centre features independent shops, cafés, and essential services, maintaining a welcoming atmosphere. The surrounding countryside provides walking and cycling routes, adding to its outdoor appeal.

Although Cranleigh does not have its own railway station, nearby Guildford and Horsham provide train services to London and beyond. The A281 and A3 offer convenient road links to the capital and the South Coast.

Worcester Park, Stoneleigh and Ewell

Worcester Park, Stoneleigh and Ewell are neighbouring locations situated around 15 miles from central London. These areas remain consistently popular with families and professionals seeking a quieter pace of life while retaining straightforward access to the capital.

In Stoneleigh, Nonsuch Primary School and Auriol Junior School provide well-regarded primary education. Worcester Park is home to Cheam Common Infants and Junior Schools, both long-established, and Cuddington Community Primary School.

Ewell also offers excellent education options, including Glyn School, a high-performing secondary school for boys, and North East Surrey College of Technology, which provides a broad range of further education courses.

Each area benefits from a range of local amenities. Stoneleigh Broadway maintains a village-like atmosphere with its shops and cafés, while Central Road in Worcester Park offers both independent retailers and high-street names. Nearby green spaces such as Nonsuch Park and Auriol Park provide opportunities for leisure and relaxation.

In Ewell, the historic Bourne Hall and nearby conservation areas reflect the area’s long heritage.

These locations are well connected by both rail and road. ​Worcester Park station (Zone 4) offers direct services to London Waterloo, with journey times averaging around 30 minutes. Stoneleigh station provides direct trains to London Waterloo, typically taking approximately 33 minutes.

Ewell is served by two stations: Ewell West, with direct services to London Waterloo averaging about 36 minutes, and Ewell East, offering direct connections to London Victoria with journey times averaging around 42 minutes.

All three areas are also within easy reach of the A24 and M25, providing convenient road access for commuters.

Best places to live in Surrey: Hidden Gems

Surrey is home to a multitude of beautiful villages that offer a distinctive blend of rural tranquillity and everyday practicality within easy reach of London. Here are just a few of the hidden gems that our experts consider to be among the best places to live in Surrey.

Ripley

Ripley is a sought-after village near Woking. Despite its rural setting, it has a good range of independent shops, and a large village green hosting events and sporting activities throughout the year.

Set along the River Wey, Ripley is surrounded by picturesque countryside. Nearby landmarks include Newark Priory, RHS Wisley, and Dunsborough Park. The A3 links to the M25 within minutes, while Woking station provides direct trains to London Waterloo in around 30 minutes.

Shamley Green

Shamley Green is located in the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, just a few miles south of Guildford. With its traditional village green, period cottages, and welcoming pubs, it offers a peaceful rural lifestyle.

The village is home to a well-regarded primary school and has access to scenic walking and cycling routes through the surrounding countryside.

Ockham

Ockham is known as the birthplace of the medieval philosopher William of Ockham. The village features traditional Surrey architecture and is surrounded by scenic countryside.

The Black Swan, a historic pub, offers local cuisine and a warm atmosphere. Ockham Common provides open heathland and woodland trails, ideal for outdoor activities.

Shere

Shere is a quintessential English village in the Surrey Hills. It boasts charming cottages, a medieval church, and a tranquil stream running through its centre. The village is a popular filming location due to its picturesque setting. Local amenities include traditional pubs, tea rooms, and boutique shops.

Chiddingfold

The beautiful village of Chiddingfold is known for its annual bonfire celebrations and rich heritage. The village green is surrounded by Georgian houses, and there are three traditional pubs, creating a classic English village ambiance.

There is also a school, a surgery, a village store, butchers, and wonderful walks in the area. Chiddingfold was once renowned for its glassmaking industry during the medieval period. Today, it offers a peaceful rural setting with easy access to nearby towns.

Crondall

Crondall is a village situated three miles west of Farnham. It features a mix of historic buildings, including many old Tudor and Georgian houses, and offers scenic countryside views.

There is a thriving community with a village shop, village hall, school, a surgery, two pubs, and a winery. The village has local events throughout the year. Its proximity to Farnham provides residents with additional amenities and transport links.

Help to search for the best places to live in Surrey

Whether you’re seeking a family home in a thriving town, a character cottage in a peaceful village, or a property within reach of London, Garrington’s experienced team can help you find the best places to live in Surrey.

With in-depth local knowledge, a network of industry contacts, and a tailored approach, we work closely with clients to identify the right locations and secure the most suitable homes, many of which are sold off-market.

If you are considering a move to Surrey, Garrington is well placed to provide trusted guidance every step of the way. To further explore the best places to live in Surrey, please get in touch to discuss your requirements without obligation.