Godalming is a picturesque market town in Surrey, known for its scenic setting along the River Wey and its proximity to the stunning Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Offering a blend of rich history, good transport links, top-tier schools, and a thriving community atmosphere, Godalming is a popular location for families, professionals, and those seeking a more rural lifestyle with easy access to London. Whether you’re considering relocating or simply visiting, this guide will give you an overview of everything Godalming has to offer.
Overview
Godalming is an ancient town, with a history dating back to Roman times, and has retained much of its historic charm while embracing modern development. Located just 4 miles from Guildford, Godalming is a sought-after residential area that benefits from its rural surroundings, picturesque views, and proximity to both the countryside and London.
The town offers an attractive mix of Georgian, Victorian, and more contemporary homes, combined with excellent local amenities, schools, and green spaces. It has all the features of a traditional market town, with a vibrant High Street, a range of independent shops, and local cafes and pubs.
Key Areas in Godalming
- Godalming Town Centre The heart of Godalming is its charming High Street, which boasts an excellent range of independent shops, cafes, boutiques, and restaurants. The River Wey runs through the town, providing pleasant riverside walks and views. At the eastern end of the High Street is the Godalming Town Hall, a landmark building which hosts various community events and is often used for concerts and exhibitions.The town centre is also home to the Godalming Library and a selection of supermarkets including Waitrose, making it easy for residents to run errands close to home.
- Broadwater Park & Surrounding Areas Located just to the west of the town centre, the Broadwater Park area offers a more residential, family-friendly atmosphere. This area features a mix of housing options, from period homes to more modern developments, and is conveniently close to local schools, parks, and amenities. The park itself is a popular spot for walking, jogging, and family gatherings, with a well-maintained children’s playground and plenty of green space.
- Farncombe Farncombe is a district located to the south of Godalming town centre, making it ideal for commuters who want to be close to the station but with a more suburban feel. Farncombe has its own shops and local amenities, with the advantage of being a short walk from both the town centre and Godalming railway station. Properties here tend to be more affordable than those in the town centre, with a mix of Victorian cottages, semi-detached houses, and some newer developments.
- Milford & The Rural Edge To the north of Godalming, the village of Milford offers a more rural lifestyle, with larger homes, countryside views, and access to open spaces like Milford Heath and Chiddingfold Forest. It’s a quieter area but still well-connected to Godalming and Guildford. This area is perfect for those seeking more space, privacy, and a country feel, while still being within easy reach of town amenities.
- Shalford Just to the north of Godalming, Shalford is a charming village with its own set of shops, cafes, and schools. It offers easy access to both Godalming and Guildford, making it an attractive option for those looking for a quieter location with good transport links.
Transport & Connectivity
Train: Godalming is well-served by the Godalming Railway Station, which offers direct services to London Waterloo in about 40-45 minutes. The station also provides connections to Guildford and Haslemere, making it a great option for commuters. Farncombe Station, which is a short distance away, also offers services to London Waterloo.
Road: Godalming has good road links, with the A3 dual carriageway providing easy access to Guildford, London, and Portsmouth. The A3 is just a few minutes’ drive from the town, making Godalming an ideal location for commuters who prefer a countryside setting.
Bus: Local buses run frequently to Guildford, Farnham, and surrounding villages. Godalming’s bus station is centrally located, making it easy to get around the local area.
Education
Godalming has a range of excellent schools, both primary and secondary, as well as private and independent schools.
- Godalming College: A highly regarded sixth form college offering A-levels and vocational courses.
- Broadwater Park School: A well-regarded primary school located in the town, with good Ofsted ratings.
- The Royal Grammar School, Guildford: A prestigious independent school just a short distance from Godalming, known for its excellent academic results.
- St. Hilary’s School: A well-regarded independent school for girls in Godalming, catering to ages 4-11.
Leisure & Amenities
- Godalming Town Centre
Godalming’s town centre offers a great selection of independent cafes, restaurants, and pubs, as well as essential services like a post office, banks, and a chemist. The Stag on the River pub, located by the river, is a popular spot for enjoying local ales and seasonal menus. - Broadwater Park
As mentioned, Broadwater Park is a popular green space with walking paths, sports fields, a children’s playground, and tennis courts. It’s a great location for families, and its spacious layout offers plenty of room for recreational activities. - Riverside Walks & Wey Navigation
The River Wey and the Wey Navigation provide scenic walking, cycling, and boating opportunities. There are picturesque riverside walks right from the town centre, offering a peaceful escape just a short distance from urban amenities. - Godalming Leisure Centre
Located in the town, the Godalming Leisure Centre offers a gym, swimming pool, fitness classes, and a sports hall. It’s a great place for keeping fit or taking part in community events. - Guildford Spectrum
For more extensive leisure facilities, Guildford Spectrum is just a short drive away, offering an ice rink, bowling alley, swimming pools, and a gym.
Shopping & Dining
Godalming has a great selection of local shops, including a range of independent stores, boutiques, and homeware outlets. You’ll also find larger retailers like Waitrose in the town centre, making it convenient for everyday shopping.
- The High Street: Godalming’s High Street is home to a variety of independent retailers, ranging from fashion boutiques and art galleries to home goods and gift shops. The Godalming Farmers’ Market is a regular event where you can buy fresh local produce and artisanal goods.
- Dining: There is no shortage of good restaurants and pubs in Godalming. Some of the best dining spots include The Red Lion, a traditional English pub, and The Olive Tree, known for its Mediterranean cuisine. The Tandem Restaurant is a popular spot for contemporary dining, while The Royal Oak serves up great British fare.
Housing & Property
Godalming offers a wide variety of properties, ranging from charming period cottages and Victorian terraced homes to modern townhouses and larger family homes on the outskirts.
- Property Prices: As of 2024, property prices in Godalming are above the national average but competitive for Surrey. The average price of a semi-detached house is around £500,000, while larger family homes or detached properties in desirable areas like the town centre or Milford can easily exceed £1 million.
- Renting: Renting in Godalming is generally more affordable than nearby Guildford. Expect to pay around £1,200-£1,800 per month for a two- to three-bedroom property, with larger family homes or more luxurious properties costing £2,500 per month or more.
Local Events & Community Life
Godalming has a strong sense of community, with a variety of local events held throughout the year. These include:
- Godalming Food Festival: A celebration of local food, drink, and produce, with food stalls, tastings, and live entertainment.
- The Godalming Christmas Market: A festive market with seasonal crafts, food, and drinks, alongside entertainment.
- Godalming Carnival: A summer tradition that includes a parade, games, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Conclusion
Godalming offers a delightful mix of historical charm, natural beauty, and modern convenience. It’s a great place to live for those who want a peaceful, community-focused lifestyle while still being within easy reach of London and Guildford. With good schools, excellent local amenities, a variety of leisure options, and a friendly atmosphere, Godalming is a fantastic place for families, professionals, and retirees alike. Whether you’re enjoying a riverside walk, exploring the local shops, or commuting to London, Godalming provides a wonderful quality of life in the heart of Surrey.
