A Buying Agent's Guide to Surrey

Surrey offers a rare combination of picturesque countryside living and exceptional accessibility, making it one of the most desirable counties in England. With fast connections to London, Gatwick, and Heathrow, and a wealth of renowned private schools, Surrey provides an ideal setting for families seeking both convenience and quality of life.

The name “Surrey” is derived from the Saxon term “Suthrige,” meaning “southern kingdom.” The Saxons settled in the area in the 5th century, drawn by the fertile land along the River Wey and the region’s abundance of livestock. This led to a thriving wool, linen, and leather trade, which in turn fostered prosperous market towns like Godalming, Farnham, and Guildford. By the 19th century, Surrey transitioned from an agricultural economy to one of affluence, as wealthy business owners built grand country estates within easy reach of London.

Today, Surrey is England’s most densely wooded county, with over a fifth of its land covered by trees. It is therefore no surprise that it is renowned for it’s outstanding natural beauty in the stunning Surrey Hills which attracts outdoor enthusiasts for biking and hiking, and promoting a healthy lifestyle ideal for family living.  The county’s landscapes have also appeared as the backdrop to several iconic films, including Four Weddings and a Funeral, The Holiday, and Skyfall.

Whether you are looking for a bustling town or a chocolate box village, Surrey doesn’t disappoint. Guildford, the county’s vibrant hub, features a mix of independent boutiques, a thriving café culture, and excellent rail connections to London and the coast. Kingston, just outside London, is a bustling shopping destination with riverside dining and a lively atmosphere. Epsom, known for its historical links to health and wellness (including the famous Epsom salts), also hosts the world-renowned Epsom Derby each July at the iconic Downs. To the east, the picturesque town of Oxted is home to charming boutiques, eateries, and scenic walking and biking trails.

For those seeking a quieter lifestyle, Surrey is dotted with the most charming villages, often with its own village green, local pub, and shop. Notable villages include Shackleford, Shere, Chiddingfold, Shamley Green, Frensham, and Ripley, offering a quintessentially English way of life. And with easy access to both Heathrow and Gatwick airports, travel for work or leisure is always convenient.

One of Surrey’s standout features is its impressive selection of prestigious private schools. For younger children, there are excellent preparatory schools such as Aldro, Amsbury, Cranmore, Hoe Bridge, Longacre, Priorsfield, and RGS Prep. Secondary education in Surrey is equally distinguished, with some of the top schools in the UK like Guildford High School, The Royal Grammar School Guildford, Epsom College, Reeds, Reigate Grammar School, St George’s, Charterhouse, St John’s Leatherhead, and Cranleigh.

Surrey offers an enviable lifestyle that balances natural beauty, outstanding education, and unparalleled access to London, making it the perfect choice for those who are property searching for countryside serenity and urban convenience combined.