Often referred to as ‘Suburb-iton’, this leafy town on the southern bank of the River Thames is quintessentially suburban. As the fictional location of TV show ‘The Good Life’, it’s an image which has stuck since the early seventies. That said, it manages to remain unique from neighboring suburbs thanks to its attractive Victorian era properties and impressive transport links which connect to Waterloo in 15 minutes.
Whether it’s the young professional or growing family, Surbiton appeals to a diverse population. It’s not surprising given the top-performing schools of the area, as well as the local attractions. In the vibrant town centre, all of the major high street retailers can be found, while stylish restaurants offer a selection of international cuisine.
Much of the appeal lies in the wide open spaces which are dotted amongst the residential pockets. Residents can walk along the scenic Thames which meanders nearby, or take the route known as the Hogsmill Valley Walk which navigates to the east of Berrylands. Ferry journeys also travel from here to Hampton Court Palace, offering the chance to tour these spectacular grounds.
Finally, the leisure and cultural attractions in and around Surbiton offer something for all. With Kingston only a short distance away, residents have access to impressive wellness centres, not to mention the historic Rose Theatre, a cinema and the prestigious Hampton Court Palace Golf Club.
Transportation in Surbiton
Surbiton has a reputation for its easy commute thanks to the speedy train service to Waterloo, taking as little as 15 minutes. That’s even faster than many of the more central districts such as Southfields, Putney and Earlsfield.
The impressive Surbiton railway station, which sits within a Grade II listed building, also offers half-hourly trains which stop at Clapham Junction for those changing to Victoria. Other services travel to Woking, Hampton Court and Basingstoke.
Alternatively, those travelling by car have the convenience of the nearby A3 which surrounds Surbiton. This links to the M25 in a short distance, offering convenient access to Central London and other major cities across the UK. Both Heathrow Airport and Gatwick can be reached in approximately 30 minutes via the M25.
Things to Do in Surbiton
Whether it’s the cultural sights, family-friendly entertainment or nearby attractions of Central London, there’s plenty to see and do in Surbiton. Here are some of the highlights.
- Claremont Gardens
- The Crafty Café
- Hollywood Bowl Tolworth
- Coronation Clock Tower
- The Wood and Richard Jefferies Bird Sanctuary
- Kingfisher Leisure Centre
- Surbiton Raceway
- Surbiton Farmers’ Market
- Hampton Court Palace
- Tenpin Kingston
- Thames Ditton Miniature Steam Railway
- White Spider Climbing
What is it Like to Live in Surbiton?
With great schools, a fast commute to London and a relaxed, village atmosphere, Surbiton is the perfect area for families. Located next to the River Thames, Surbiton is 11 miles southwest of central London, with Kingston Upon Thames to the north. Historically part of the ancient parish of Kingston Upon Thames in the county of Surrey, it became a part of Greater London in 1965.
Perhaps best known for being the setting for the famous BBC sitcom “The Good Life”, Surbiton has a reputation for idyllic, leafy suburbia, which isn’t too far from the truth. This welcoming suburban neighbourhood comprises a mixture of grand 19th century townhouses, semi-detached 20th century housing estates and more recent residential blocks with open green spaces.
Transport Links
Whilst Surbiton lacks major motorway connections, the A3 road, which connects London and Portsmouth, does cuts through Berrylands at Tolworth Underpass. The M25 can be reached in just over half an hour too.
The area is well served by a number of regular bus services. The Transport for London bus routes running through Surbiton include: 71, 281, 406, 418, 465, K1, K2, K3 and K4. Other services running through the area include those provided by Hallmark Connections and Stagecoach South. These bus services provide links to the likes of Kingstown town centre, Twickenham, Chessington, Hounslow, Epsom, Dorking, Cobham and Staines.
Surbiton residents also benefit from being in close proximity to two train stations: Surbiton and Berrylands. In fact, Surbiton train station was built in the area now known as Surbiton way back in 1838 as an alternative to a station in Kingston. Fast, frequent services run from Surbiton station to London Waterloo, taking as little as 20 minutes. Both stations also provide easy links further afield to Surrey and Hampshire.
Surbiton will appeal to cycling enthusiasts too. The suburb provides many cycleways to quickly reach open spaces and the countryside.
For international travel, both Heathrow Airport and Gatwick are within very easy reach, with the former being less than 9 miles away from Surbiton.
Schools in the Area
Surbiton has plenty to offer in the way of schools with a number of fantastic primary and secondary schools, as well as highly regarded private schooling options. These include:
- Mark’s Church of England Junior School is a primary school rated as “outstanding” by Ofsted
- Kingston Grammar School is an excellent grammar school
- Surbiton High School is a highly regarded comprehensive secondary school
- Shrewsbury House for boys and Cross Preparatory for girls are popular choices for private schools
Lifestyle, Leisure and Amenities
Surbiton’s town centre is busy and offers a wide range of shopping opportunities. Situated along St Mark’s Hill, Victoria Road and Brighton Road, shoppers can explore a number of independent boutiques and sit down for a coffee at one of the many fantastic coffee shops. The Soprattutto Café, The Press Room, Pickled Pantry and the Clocktower Café are all much-loved among locals.
You will also find many familiar names here such as Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, M&S, Boots, Costa Coffee and Pizza Express.
Maple Road is where the best restaurants are found, including the highly regarded The French Table, No 97 and Cento Uno.
The Lamb is a popular community-minded pub serving a great selection of beers and fine wines. The CAMRA-winning pub hosts music events, monthly cheese clubs, dress-up parties and events too.
Surbiton Farmers’ Market takes places every third Saturday of the month. This award-winning market offers a wonderful atmosphere and a fabulous selection of fresh produce and homemade treats.
Claremont Gardens offers a quiet spot to sit and wonder, which is minutes from the Clocktower Café. Victoria Park is a popular spot with fantastic tennis courts, football pitches and a multi-use open space.
For history buffs, Hampton Court Palace, the residency of Henry VIII, is just a 15-minute drive away from Surbiton.
Leisure and Sports Clubs
Surbiton has a proud and strong sporting tradition. Surbiton Hockey Club on Sugden Road, Long Ditton, is one of the country’s premier clubs and Surbiton Croquet Club, on Alexandra Drive, is the largest croquet club in London. Dating back to 1895, Surbiton Golf Club is on Woodstock Lane.
The Malden Centre is a leisure complex with swimming pools, a gym and workout classes. Motion Training is a highly regarded CrossFit gym.
The Surbiton Racket and Fitness Club is one of the oldest tennis clubs in the country, offering facilities for tennis, squash and padel. There is also a gym on-site.
Surbiton is also near to the wonderful Royal Parks of Bushy Park and Richmond Park.