Surbiton
FOR many years Surbiton was best known as the home of Margo and Jerry and Tom and Barbara in the BBC’s classic sitcom, the Good Life.
Nestling on the banks of the River Thames, the south London struggled to cast off its staid and dull middle class image.
But today Surbiton is a highly sought after residential area with a booming cafe society and thriving shopping centre.
Surbiton’s once dowdy image has been shaken off as young buyers wake up to the fact that not only does the town provide excellent amenities and swift access to central London, but it also has plenty of good-value properties at affordable prices.
Studios and one- and two-bedroom flats are selling faster than ever before, and proving good investments. Experts say that the last few years, some properties in the region have nearly doubled in value. Click here for our Surbiton Letting Agents
"The best thing about Surbiton is that there is something to suit all budgets, from a flat above a shop to a detached executive home, says:
Surbiton estate agent Mark Thompson of Barnard Marcus: “As with everywhere, the market has calmed down since last year but people are still moving in and we are getting a lot of first- and second-time buyers. The high street has improved, with better shops, cafés and bars, so there is a lot to attract younger buyers."
One of the town’s biggest advantages is its rail service to central London - just 16 minutes direct to Waterloo.
The London and South Western Railway opened in 1838 and since then Surbiton has grown from a village to an established commuter town.
Surbiton train station was built 1938 and attracts sightseeing lovers of modernist architecture who come to marvel at its sleek lines and lofty entrance hall echoing the glamour of a bygone age. Commuters from Surbiton can be in Covent Garden within half an hour and the last train home leaves Waterloo at 1.05am, leaving plenty of scope to enjoy London’s highlife.
The picturesque river Thames is another attraction, less than half a mile from Surbiton’s town centre; it provides a plethora of riverside walks, pleasure cruise trips and fascinating attractions, such as Hampton Park Palace to enjoy. The active can join the rowing club at Kingston; the less fit can enjoy the pubs along the waterfront.
For those seeking a property in Surbiton, there is a wide variety of architectural styles, from Georgian gems to converted Victorian villas, spacious Edwardian houses and, naturally Thirties three-bedroom semis.
Purpose-built flats remain a popular choice and there are plenty of new-build projects springing up catering for singles and couples. Expect to pay a premium for those situated close to the station and/or the river.
Surbiton Eateries:
The Liberty Bell, French/UK/US food, good for families, 158 Ewell Road (020 8390 7564).
Il Palio, Mexican/fusion, 31 Brighton Road (020 8390 8065).
Loco, Tony Allan's new Italian, 61 Brighton Road (020 8399 3988).
Joy, modern-Indian, 37 Brighton Road (020 8390 3988).
The Saucy Kettle, Brighton Road for live music.
Health & Leisure
Cannons Health Club, Simpson Way (020 8335 2900)
Globe Health & Fitness, Victoria Road (020 8390 0148)
Kingston Rowing Club, (020 8546 8592).
For council information call 020 8546 2121 or visit www. kingston.gov.uk.
For school performance tables, call 0800 242322.
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