Surrey, located in the southeast of England, is often considered a great place to live for a variety of reasons. It’s a county that strikes a nice balance between picturesque countryside, charming towns, and proximity to London, making it attractive to a wide range of people—from families to professionals and retirees.
Things to Do in Surrey
Surrey offers plenty of activities that cater to different interests:
- Exploring the Surrey Hills: The Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a popular spot for walking, cycling, and hiking. Areas like Box Hill and Leith Hill are particularly well-known for their beautiful landscapes and views.
- Visiting Historic Sites: If you’re interested in history, Hampton Court Palace is a must-visit. Located in East Molesey, this Tudor palace offers tours of its grand rooms and expansive gardens. Guildford Castle is another historic landmark, providing a glimpse into the area’s medieval past along with panoramic views of the town.
- Family-Friendly Activities: For families, Thorpe Park in Chertsey offers a variety of rides and attractions, while Chessington World of Adventures combines a zoo with a theme park, making it ideal for kids and adults alike.
- Arts and Culture: Surrey has a rich cultural scene with places like The Lightbox in Woking, which hosts art exhibitions and workshops. The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre in Guildford is another cultural hub, offering a mix of plays, musicals, and comedy shows.
- Shopping and Dining: Guildford’s High Street is a prime shopping destination, with a mix of big-name retailers and independent boutiques. Cobham and Farnham also offer charming shops and cafes for a more relaxed shopping experience.
House Prices in Surrey
Surrey is known for its higher-than-average property prices, largely due to its desirable location and quality of life:
- Guildford: The average house price is about £620,000, with detached homes reaching over £1 million. Semi-detached properties typically go for around £553,000, and flats for about £300,000.
- Cobham: Cobham is one of the pricier areas in Surrey, with an average house price of around £1.2 million. The area is known for its luxury homes and is particularly popular with families moving out of London.
- Farnham: Farnham offers a mix of historical charm and modern living. The average house price here is about £555,000, with detached houses averaging £972,000 and semi-detached homes around £494,000.
- East Molesey: Near Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey has an average property price of around £829,000. Flats are more affordable at £444,000, but terraced homes can be pricier, averaging around £686,000.
- Windlesham: This area is known for its luxurious estates, with house prices averaging around £1.5 million. Windlesham is favored by those looking for a peaceful, rural setting without being too far from London.
Nightlife in Surrey
Surrey’s nightlife varies from town to town, offering something for everyone:
- Guildford: Guildford is a key spot for nightlife in Surrey. The Boileroom is a popular live music venue, while The Star Inn offers a more traditional pub experience. For those who enjoy comedy, Komedia hosts regular comedy nights.
- Woking: Woking also has a good mix of nightlife options, including The Lightbox, which hosts evening events and exhibitions, and Jongleurs Comedy Club for a fun night out. Bars like Cellar Magneval offer a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying a glass of wine with friends.
- Reigate: Reigate’s nightlife is more understated but still offers good options, such as The Vineking, a wine and cocktail bar, and Urban 9, a stylish cocktail bar that’s popular with locals.
- Farnham: Farnham’s nightlife is centered around its traditional pubs, such as The Nelson Arms and The Mulberry, which are great for a laid-back evening out. Live music is a regular feature, adding to the cozy atmosphere.
Overall, Surrey is a great place to live, offering a mix of scenic beauty, historic charm, and modern conveniences. While house prices can be high, the quality of life—ranging from excellent schools and outdoor activities to a rich cultural scene—makes it a worthwhile investment for many. Whether you’re looking for a quiet village atmosphere, a lively town, or proximity to London, Surrey has something to offer everyone.
