Reigate is a charming town located in the borough of Reigate and Banstead in Surrey. Known for its scenic beauty and relaxed lifestyle, the area is a popular choice for families, young professionals, and downsizers alike. Reigate boasts a thriving community with a vibrant high street, and excellent transport links to London and Gatwick and of course, the picturesque countryside which includes The Surrey Hills, and surrounding areas. The properties in the area range from charming cottages to modern houses, making it an attractive location for anyone looking to settle down in a peaceful yet convenient setting. As part of our Walk Around series, our Southern Home Counties specialist, Mark Crampton takes us on a virtual stroll around Reigate.
Reigate is home to several exceptional schools, known for their academic excellence, holistic development and dedicated faculty. Reigate Grammar School (fee-paying, unlike Grammar Schools in other parts of England), which has just been awarded ‘Excellent in All Areas’ for Education Quality by ISI offers a comprehensive curriculum with a wide range of subjects, allows students to explore their interests and develop a well-rounded skill set.
Dunottar School, for students aged 11 to 18, encourages them to exhibit the seven behaviours of ‘warrior learners’: aspiration, creativity, tenacity, independence, curiosity, collaboration and inclusivity.
The Royal Alexander and Albert School (RAAS) is a state co-educational boarding school set in the stunning Gatton Park amidst rolling countryside. It offers boarding and flexi boarding for ages between 7 and 18. Ofsted has reported “the child-focused, high-quality care provided by the boarding staff” is “passionate and dedicated.”
The heart of Reigate is dominated by the beautiful Priory Park with the stunning Grade I listed Reigate Priory School set in the centre, a very popular state junior school.
Coined “a little gem” by Peter Alliss, Reigate Heath Golf Club is postcard perfect. Set within a 120-acre Site of Special Scientific Interest, the course features 9 holes amongst heather and gorse-lined fairways, alongside an old clubhouse and windmill. Following a heated round of golf, players should head to The Black Horse for a drink. Its charming, low-beamed cosy bar is the perfect winter hub for those colder days. Whereas, in Summer, their stunning garden is complete with a stretch tent for outdoor dining, plenty of tables in the sun and even its own tipi available to hire for small gatherings.
The Pilgrim Brewery holds a special place as the oldest craft brewery in the Southeast, tracing its roots back to 1982. Last year, they opened the doors of The Hatch, an enchanting, intimate pub situated at Shaw’s Corner. As part of their ethos, they will not stock mainstream beers or spirits but instead, seek out great local craft and artisan producers.
Just a 20-minute drive from Reigate, you’ll find Denbies Wine Estate, one of England’s largest vineyards. Spanning over 265 acres, it represents over 10% of all vine plantings in the UK. With its impressive scenery, the estate offers activities such as train tours with afternoon tea and, of course, wine tasting.
A once-in-a-lifetime experience, Beaverbrook Hotel is known for its quintessential Britishness and is nestled in the heart of the stunning Surrey Hills. Take a potter around the hotel and grounds and you might spot a spitfire emblem, a botanical Bar or a room entirely dedicated to the ‘shaken, not stirred ‘author.
In June, the renowned chef Tom Kerridge takes the helm of Pub in the Park, an esteemed annual event often hailed as the epitome of a “food and music festival” experience. This highly anticipated gathering seamlessly combines acclaimed restaurants, captivating live performances, exceptional culinary talents, and, naturally, a delightful array of delectable cuisine. Nestled within the enchanting confines of Reigate Park, this beloved pop-up event promises an unforgettable fusion of gastronomy and entertainment, drawing in crowds year after year.
Reigate Priory Parkrun is a well-attended weekly event that invites participants of all ages and fitness levels to enjoy a scenic 5km run within the historic grounds of Reigate Priory Park. This community-driven initiative fosters a sense of camaraderie and attracts both seasoned runners and newcomers who relish the opportunity to embrace the beauty of the park while engaging in a healthy activity.
Don’t miss out on the remarkable Brockham Fireworks, attracting both locals and visitors alike. Set amidst the beautiful village of Brockham, this event features an awe-inspiring display of fireworks, renowned as one of the largest in England.
Christmas in Reigate is made magical with their annual fayre, hosted on Church Street. Now in its 12th year, it continues to thrive and attract a large crowd, making it the busiest day in Reigate! Highlights include the Christmas Light switch on at 16:30, an appearance from Father Christmas on the roof of the Old Town Hall and the Chocolate Tombola, which helps to raise funds towards the Christmas Lights Appeal.
Reigate entices young families seeking picturesque Surrey surroundings and top-notch educational opportunities, often prompting relocations from places like Clapham and Wimbledon and even further afield. It’s convenient train connections to Victoria or London Bridge also make it appealing to rail commuters, and J8 of the M25 makes road travel easy to anywhere in the South East. The area’s sandy soil holds a special allure for horse owners, offering optimal riding conditions and enhancing its appeal among equestrian enthusiasts. Price points tend to be around £1-3m for a family house with architectural styles ranging from large dwellings built in Victorian era and the 1920s to more recent contemporary houses. For some of the very best houses prices can sometimes edge closer to £5m.
Hot spots include High Trees Road, which garners premium prices in the market due to its coveted location and proximity to the town centre. Some of the houses on the South side of this road get fabulous views from the elevated position. Similarly, Pilgrims Way is probably one of the most sought-after roads, situated discreetly on the outskirts of town, offering convenient access to nearby hiking trails whilst also boasting some of the larger plot sizes in the town.
For Reigate property advice, click here to speak to Mark directly.