Surrey - Best Places to Live UK

Reasons to live in Surrey UK

Proximity to London: Surrey is located in close proximity to London, making it an attractive option for those who work in the city but prefer a more suburban or rural lifestyle. It offers easy access to London’s employment opportunities, cultural attractions, and international travel through its excellent transport links.
Beautiful Countryside: Surrey is known for its picturesque countryside, rolling hills, and green spaces. The county is home to areas of outstanding natural beauty, such as the Surrey Hills (see image above), Box Hill, and the North Downs, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and horse riding.
Excellent Schools: Surrey is renowned for its excellent educational institutions. The county has a wide range of both state and independent schools, including prestigious boarding schools and top-performing grammar schools. This makes Surrey an attractive destination for families seeking high-quality education for their children.
Vibrant Towns and Villages: Surrey has a number of vibrant towns and picturesque villages, each with its unique character and charm. Places like Guildford, Woking, Farnham, and Reigate offer a blend of historical architecture, shopping districts, cultural events, and recreational facilities. The county also boasts a thriving arts and entertainment scene.
Good Quality of Life: Surrey consistently ranks highly in quality of life surveys due to its low crime rates, good healthcare facilities, and overall standard of living. The county has a strong sense of community, with a range of sports clubs, community organisations, and social events that promote an active and engaging lifestyle.
Access to Nature and Recreation: In addition to its countryside, Surrey offers a variety of parks, nature reserves, and gardens, including the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew and RHS Garden Wisley. Residents can enjoy outdoor pursuits, leisure activities, and a wide range of recreational facilities.
Historical and Cultural Heritage: Surrey has a rich history and boasts several historic sites, such as Hampton Court Palace, Polesden Lacey, and Guildford Castle. The county also hosts numerous cultural events, festivals, and exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing its heritage and providing opportunities for cultural enrichment.
Business and Economic Opportunities: Surrey has a strong economy with a mix of industries, including technology, pharmaceuticals, finance, and professional services. The county offers employment opportunities and attracts businesses due to its proximity to London and excellent transport links.

Best places to live in Surrey UK

Guildford: As the county town of Surrey, Guildford is a vibrant and historic town with a bustling High Street, cobbled streets, and a range of amenities. It offers a mix of cultural attractions, shopping centres, excellent schools, and beautiful green spaces such as the Surrey Hills.
Weybridge: Located on the River Wey, Weybridge is an affluent town known for its leafy suburbs, beautiful riverside settings, and prestigious homes. It offers a range of amenities, including boutique shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities. Weybridge is also well-connected with good transport links to London.
Farnham: Positioned in the western part of Surrey, Farnham is a charming market town with a rich history and a range of amenities. It offers a mix of Georgian and Tudor architecture, independent shops, cultural attractions, and access to the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Reigate: Situated at the foot of the North Downs, Reigate is a picturesque town with a historic centre and a range of amenities. It offers a mix of independent shops, cafes, restaurants, and cultural venues. Reigate is also known for its beautiful Priory Park and excellent schools.
Esher: Located in the Elmbridge district, Esher is an affluent town with a mix of rural and urban characteristics. It offers a range of amenities, including high-end boutiques, restaurants, and leisure facilities. Esher is also known for its proximity to the stunning Hampton Court Palace.
Cobham: Positioned on the River Mole, Cobham is an upscale town with a mix of historic buildings and modern developments. It offers a range of amenities, including boutique shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities. Cobham is also known for its beautiful countryside and proximity to the Surrey Hills.
Dorking: Nestled in the heart of the Surrey Hills, Dorking is a market town known for its picturesque setting and historic charm. It offers a range of amenities, independent shops, cafes, and access to outdoor activities in the surrounding countryside.
Godalming: Located on the River Wey, Godalming is a historic market town with a charming character. It offers a mix of historic buildings, independent shops, and a range of amenities. Godalming is also known for its beautiful countryside and the nearby Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village.
Cranleigh: Situated in the southeastern part of Surrey, Cranleigh is a thriving village known for its community spirit and proximity to the Surrey Hills. It offers a range of amenities, local shops, cafes, and leisure facilities.
Oxted: Positioned in the eastern part of Surrey, Oxted is a commuter town with a mix of rural and suburban features. It offers a range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities. Oxted is also known for its good schools and access to the North Downs.

Best schools in Surrey UK (not official rankings)

St. John’s School, Leatherhead
Epsom College, Epsom
Guildford High School, Guildford
Cranleigh School, Cranleigh
Reed’s School, Cobham
Caterham School, Caterham
Tormead School, Guildford
The Royal Grammar School, Guildford
St. Catherine’s School, Bramley
Charterhouse, Godalming