Haslemere

Haslemere is a picturesque market town located in the southwestern corner of Surrey, nestled on the edge of the South Downs National Park. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, historic architecture, and close-knit community, Haslemere is a sought-after location for families, professionals, and retirees alike. The town offers the best of both worlds: a peaceful, rural lifestyle with easy access to London and nearby towns like Guildford and Farnham.

With its charming High Street, top-rated schools, and excellent transport links, Haslemere is a town where people can enjoy a high quality of life, surrounded by some of the best scenery in southern England.

Overview

Haslemere boasts a rich history dating back to the 12th century and is located in the picturesque Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The town centre, with its mix of independent shops, pubs, and cafes, exudes a traditional market town charm. While Haslemere retains much of its historic character, it has also evolved into a modern, well-connected commuter town with excellent amenities, top schools, and a thriving community.

The town is popular with those who appreciate outdoor living, as it’s surrounded by beautiful countryside perfect for walking, cycling, and exploring. Additionally, the excellent rail links to London Waterloo (about an hour’s journey) make it an attractive option for professionals working in the capital but looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Key Areas in Haslemere

1. Haslemere Town Centre The heart of Haslemere is its bustling High Street, which features a wonderful selection of independent shops, cafes, restaurants, and local services. It’s a charming and vibrant area where you’ll find everything from antique shops and bookshops to boutique clothing stores and artisanal cafes. A focal point in the centre is The Georgian Hotel, a historic building that offers both hospitality and character to the town.Haslemere’s town centre is also home to a number of historic buildings, including the Town Hall, and offers a range of pubs and eateries like The Lion Brewery and The Wheatsheaf. The town has a strong sense of community, with regular events and markets taking place throughout the year.
2. Grayswood A peaceful village on the outskirts of Haslemere, Grayswood offers a more rural, semi-rural lifestyle with proximity to the town centre. It’s a quiet area with beautiful, historic cottages, larger family homes, and a great local primary school. Grayswood is ideal for those seeking a tranquil setting with easy access to Haslemere’s amenities, as it is just a short drive or walk into the town centre.
3. Haslemere Heights Located to the east of the town centre, Haslemere Heights is a desirable residential area offering larger homes with spectacular views over the surrounding countryside. Many of the properties here are detached or semi-detached, with gardens and private drives, making it a popular choice for families. The area is quiet, with easy access to the countryside and the town centre, making it a great choice for those seeking a balance between peace and convenience.
4. Beacon Hill Situated to the northeast of Haslemere, Beacon Hill is a small village that’s part of the town’s outskirts. The area offers larger homes, many with significant grounds, and is ideal for those looking for more space. There are plenty of scenic walking routes, including access to Hurtwood Forest and Blackdown, the highest point in Surrey. Beacon Hill also offers a strong sense of community and is known for its local primary school, which is highly rated.
5. Camelsdale Located to the southwest of Haslemere, Camelsdale is a quieter residential area with a more suburban feel. The area has a good mix of family homes, from Victorian terraces to newer developments. Camelsdale Primary School is located here, making it a popular area for young families. The proximity to Haslemere’s shops and the beautiful countryside of the Surrey Hills are two major benefits of living in this area.

Transport & Connectivity

Train: Haslemere is ideally located for commuters, with the Haslemere Railway Station offering direct services to London Waterloo in about 50 minutes. There are also connections to Guildford and Portsmouth, as well as regional services that make it easy to travel to nearby towns and cities. The station is located just a short walk from the town centre, providing easy access for residents.

Road: The town is conveniently located near the A3, which links to London (approximately 40 miles) and Portsmouth to the south. The A3 provides a direct route to Guildford, making Haslemere easily accessible by car. The M25 is also within driving distance, offering easy access to the wider motorway network.

Bus: Local buses provide regular services to neighbouring towns like Farnham, Guildford, and Godalming, as well as surrounding villages.

Education

Haslemere is home to several excellent schools, making it an attractive destination for families with children.

• Haslemere Primary School: A popular and highly rated primary school located in the town, known for its strong academic results and excellent facilities.
• Grayswood Primary School: A well-regarded school in the village of Grayswood, offering a nurturing environment and good academic standards.
• Haslemere College: This secondary school offers a wide range of subjects and extracurricular activities, with a good reputation for both academic achievement and sports.
• The Royal Grammar School, Guildford: One of the area’s top independent schools, which is easily accessible from Haslemere and highly regarded for its academic standards.
• Charterhouse: A prestigious independent school for boys and girls, located just a few miles away in Godalming.

Leisure & Amenities

1. Haslemere Leisure Centre The Haslemere Leisure Centre offers a wide range of facilities, including a gym, swimming pool, sports hall, and group fitness classes. It’s a great place for fitness enthusiasts and families looking for recreational activities.
2. The Devil’s Punch Bowl
   A short drive from the town centre, The Devil’s Punch Bowl is a popular spot for hiking, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and a wealth of walking and cycling paths. It’s part of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures.
3. Haslemere Museum
   Haslemere Museum, established in 1888, is an excellent small museum showcasing the natural history, archaeology, and local heritage of Haslemere and the surrounding areas. It’s a great place for visitors and residents alike to learn about the town’s history.
4. Shops & Restaurants
   Haslemere has a variety of independent shops and boutiques on its charming High Street, offering everything from local produce to unique gifts and antiques. There’s also a Waitrose supermarket for your everyday shopping needs. For dining out, you’ll find several good options, including The Swan Inn, which serves classic British pub food, and The Georgian Hotel for a more upscale dining experience.
5. Local Pubs
   Haslemere is known for its friendly local pubs, many of which serve real ales and classic pub fare. Popular spots include The White Horse, The Lion Brewery, and The Wheatsheaf.

Housing & Property

Haslemere’s housing market is relatively affluent compared to other towns in Surrey, but it offers a variety of property types to suit different needs.

• Property Prices: As of 2024, the average price for a semi-detached house in Haslemere is around £550,000, while detached family homes in sought-after areas like Beacon Hill or Haslemere Heights can exceed £1 million. For those looking for a more affordable option, areas like Camelsdale or Grayswood might offer good value for money with prices starting from £400,000 for a smaller family home or terraced house.
• Renting: Renting in Haslemere is more affordable than in Guildford or other Surrey towns, but rental prices can still be high due to the town’s desirability. Expect to pay around £1,500-£2,000 per month for a two- or three-bedroom property, with larger homes or more premium locations pushing rental prices upwards of £2,500 per month.

Local Events & Community

Haslemere has a strong sense of community, with a range of local events and activities for residents of all ages:

• Haslemere Festival: A biennial festival that celebrates the arts, music, and culture of the town, with performances, exhibitions, and outdoor activities.
• Haslemere Christmas Market: A traditional Christmas market with festive stalls, local crafts, food, and seasonal entertainment.
• Farmers’ Markets: Held regularly in the town centre, offering fresh, locally grown produce, meats, and artisan goods.

Conclusion

Haslemere is a vibrant market town that offers the perfect blend of rural charm, excellent transport links, and a strong sense of community. Its beautiful location within the Surrey Hills, combined with its historic buildings, good schools, and thriving local amenities, makes it an ideal place for families, professionals, and retirees looking for a peaceful lifestyle with access to London. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely stroll along the High Street, hiking through the countryside, or commuting to the capital.