Surrey Villages You Might’ve Missed from Seymours, Surrey Estate Agents
14 May, 2021If you live in one of Surrey’s many bustling towns, you could well be forgiven for thinking the area isn’t as green as everyone makes it out to be! But venture just a stone’s throw away from the vibrant town centres, and you’ll soon discover picture-postcard cottages, quaint country lanes and an array of welcoming cosy English pubs.
Virtually undisturbed for generations, a visit or move to one of these charming villages will have you transported back in time, each full of rich history to explore. But these hidden gems are easily missed if you are not in the know! So, in today’s blog post, we’ll be sharing all of the knowledge we’ve gained as the expert Surrey estate agents, and telling you about a few of the most picturesque villages around the area that may have slipped under your radar.
Get to know Surrey
Before we dive into some of the most quaint villages in the area that you may have missed, what makes Surrey such a special place to live?
The home county has long been favoured by commuters; with its close proximity to London and excellent transportation links you can be in the capital in under an hour in most cases. But what makes the area even more appealing is the beautiful rolling hills that surround the localities, boasting an array of wild flora and stunning views. You can spend idyllic weekends exploring the nature trails or tucking into a delicious homemade treat at one of the many independent coffee spots. This slower-paced lifestyle is one high in demand, a haven for those looking to escape the city. However, if you still crave the hustle and bustle of town life, you are just a short distance away from the likes of Guildford and Woking, both boasting a selection of boutique retailers and restaurants to enjoy. There really is so much to discover and do in the area!
But how do you choose where to relocate when there is so much on offer, and when each hamlet is so unique? Our team of Surrey estate agents have the insider knowledge you need, whatever you may be after from your new home. Here are some of our top picks you may not have yet considered when looking for a quieter village lifestyle…
#1 Shamley Green
Previously attracting the likes of Alfred Hitchcock and Eric Clapton, Shamley Green is a very quaint, quintessentially English village. Following a narrow country lane through woods and forestry, you’ll come across a signpost pointing “This way” in one direction, “That way” in another and “Somewhere else” on a third arm. Fortunately, however, there is a real sign too!
Cucknells Wood, located just a short wander away, is a 400 year old nature reserve managed by the county wildlife trust. Whilst stunning throughout the seasons, spring is particularly beautiful with bluebells blanketing the forest floor.
Best for: Those looking for a quintessentially English escape, with stunning walks available year-round.
#2 Brockham
A small, tight-knit community resides in the vibrant village of Brockham, it’s also the home of one of the Seymours partners from the Dorking office. Nestled at the foot of the North Downs, your doorstep will serve as the perfect launchpad for hikes across the rolling hills to take in the breathtaking views.
Uniquely positioned in a semi-rural spot, the area is perhaps most famous for its annual bonfire display. Though you may have also seen images of the picturesque setting as it is one of the most photographed spots villages in the country with the perfectly framed village green at its centre (ideal for long, summer days spent with the family or friends, relaxing with a picnic!)
Best for: Those in search of the perfect chocolate-box village, and avid hikers wanting a vast selection of woodland hikes.
#3 West Clandon
A quiet hamlet located just 3km from Guildford, West Clandon was first mentioned in the Doomsday Book of 1086 much like the more popular Shere nearby. And the rich history doesn’t stop there, the picturesque village is also the home to a mystic legend; a soldier, condemned for deserting the army, agreed to fight a dragon for clemency. You’ll be pleased to hear he duly did rid the village of the dragon and actually settled in the area himself.
However, there is still a dragon to this day; a large-scale chalk piece covers a nearby hillside. The piece was created in 1977 to commemorate Elizabeth II’s silver jubilee, and whilst it does occasionally disappear undergrowth it is periodically exposed by a team of volunteers in the area.
Best for: Young knights in training or those after a village with a rich history to discover.
#4 Chobham
An attractive olde-worlde village, Chobham is filled with independent shops, pubs and cafés. Located just 25 miles outside of the capital yet surrounded by greenery, it’s a highly desirable spot. Not only is the high street a thriving centre ideal for days out with the family, but just minutes away you also have the largest nature reserve in the south, Chobham Common. Home to more than 100 different bird species, young families and avid bird-watchers could spend hours exploring the different routes.
Best for: Young families wanting to find the perfect combination of countryside and high-street hustle and bustle!
#5 Sandhurst
With new housing developments recently built, Sandhurst’s popularity has been on the rise and is particularly attractive to first-time buyers and young families. Considered more of a town than a village, there is a variety of activities on offer; Little Sandhurst is one of our Seymour team’s favourite spots with its stunning nature reserve, perfect for walking the dog – or why not stop at The Bird In Hand to enjoy some of the homemade, wholesome food served daily.
Did you know? HRH The Duke of Cambridge (Prince William) resided at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst between January and December 2006.
Best for: Young families or first-time buyers wanting to move to a larger, up-and-coming town whilst remaining in close proximity to the countryside.
#6 Pyrford
Another quiet hamlet soaked in history that we’ve seen plenty of people fall in love with over our time as Surrey estate agents! The small, dispersed village layout has remained much the same, dating back to the Saxon period, it boasts an array of listed buildings, especially late medieval wooden framed homes, that make for an ever-interesting stroll through the area.
With the River Wey bordering the spot, on a glorious summer day you can spend hours watching the canals float by you as you enjoy a sweet treat from the local bakery!
Best for: Traditional village seekers, and those in search of a picturesque scene to call home.
#7 Hascombe
A picture-postcard village, Hascombe is home to one of the best gastropubs in Surrey: The White House, a favourite of our Seymours team for a relaxed evening. Perfectly combining beer garden relaxation with champagne-fuelled fine-dining, the popular spot has something for everyone.
Before visiting The White House for an exquisite Sunday roast, spend your day exploring Hascombe Hill’s spectacular views and countryside trails. The site of an Iron Age hill fort, you made well be forgiven for thinking you’ve stumbled into a mini Stonehenge with a modern stone circle erected on the site.
Best for: Those in search of the perfect balance between history, community and countryside.
#8 Mayford
The classic countryside escape, Mayford is a little slice of heaven for the London commuter. Centred around a small roundabout, the quaint village will certainly have you in a spin! With flowers lining the little hamlet, it’s a breath of fresh air away from the daily rush.
Located on the outskirts of Woking, just a short drive will see you in the heart of the vibrant town centre where you’ll have access to the popular highvstreet shops and restaurants. Furthermore, It’s close proximity to the town means you can be in the capital in under thirty minutes.
Best for: A quaint countryside retreat close to town-life, with a very close-knit community.
Surrey estate agents: Where to live in the area
When searching for your ideal home, there are many villages in Surrey to consider – and our list is certainly not exhaustive! It can be difficult to know where to search when there is so much on offer, but whether you are after the vibrancy of a town centre, or instead crave the relaxed, community feel of a village – there is something for everyone in Surrey.
Perhaps there’s a new location above you are yet to explore as an option for your next property? Why not get in touch today and discover the houses currently for sale in these stunning hidden spots. As real estate experts, our team has the experience to ensure your next move is a success and each of our team members is passionate about finding the perfect property for you.
Work with the Surrey estate agents you can trust and find your dream home today. Seymours, your property partner for life.