The three Surrey towns named the best places to live in England
Property Finders Garrington named Epsom, Ewell, and Ashtead in their top ten in their list of best places to live.
To get this data, Garrington analysed over 1,400 towns and villages, each with a population of more than 5,000, using five key categories.
This included school ratings and job opportunities, education, local crime and air quality, property value for money, access to green spaces, and the number of period or listed homes in each area.
(Image: Google Maps) Epsom ranked in second on the list, with Redbourn in Hertfordshire coming in first, and Whitburn in Tyne and Wear ranking in third.
Epsom was praised for its abundance of highly rated schools and high-paying jobs in the area.
Jobs and schools in Epsom ranked in at number seven overall.
Epsom also scored 75 in the natural environment category.
This score reflects Epsom's natural surroundings, including its proximity to parks, green spaces, and areas of outstanding natural beauty, with a score of 75 indicating good access to nature and low flood risk.
The town offers a balance of urban convenience and natural beauty, with Epsom Downs and nearby parks providing plenty of room to unwind.
Epsom is home to the world-famous Epsom Downs Racecourse, where the annual Derby takes place, as well as the University for the Creative Arts and the historic Epsom Playhouse.
Epsom also scored highly for its excellent transport links, with Epsom station having direct trains to London Waterloo, London Bridge, and London Victoria, as well as direct buses to surrounding areas like Sutton, Kingston, and Croydon.
Epsom was also named as the best place to retire in January by The Times.
(Image: Google Maps) Nearby, Ewell ranked in at number eight on the list and was the second Surrey location to be listed, with Merley in Dorset ranking at number seven and Chigwell in Essex ranking at number nine.
Ewell was also praised for its natural environment, with several parks and nature reserves that offer residents access to green spaces.
Notable areas include Ewell Court Park, which features a tranquil lake and ornamental gardens, and Hogsmill Local Nature Reserve, home to a variety of wildlife along the Hogsmill River.
Ewell also scored highly for its heritage and culture, with attractions like Nonsuch Park and Nonsuch Mansion.
The town also offers Ewell Court House, a historic building with its origins dating back to the 16th century.
Ewell Village is home to charming streets with a mix of period homes and modern properties, creating a perfect blend of old and new.
In addition to its historical sites, Ewell features a vibrant local community with several cafes, shops, and pubs, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.
(Image: Google Maps)
Lastly, Ashtead ranked in at number 10, with Chigwell ranking at number 9 and Rawdon in West Yorkshire ranking at number 11.
Ashtead was also celebrated for its picturesque natural environment, boasting several parks and nature reserves that provide residents with green space.
Green spaces include Ashtead Common, a vast area of ancient woodland offering scenic walking trails, and the nearby Epsom Downs, known for its stunning views and wildlife.
Ashtead scores highly for its rich heritage and culture, with attractions like the historic Church of St. George, which dates back to the 13th century, and the nearby Polesden Lacey, an impressive National Trust property.
The village is home to Ashtead Peace Memorial Hall, a community hub with a long-standing history as a place for local events and gatherings.
Ashtead Village features charming streets lined with a mix of period homes and contemporary properties, creating an appealing blend of old and new.
In addition to its historical landmarks, Ashtead offers a vibrant local community, with a selection of cafes, independent shops, and pubs that contribute to a welcoming, village-like atmosphere.
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