_Spotlight on: Living in and around Esher
I am privileged to work in and around such a desirable area of Surrey. Having arrived at Knight Frank Esher back in 2002 as a fresh faced 25 year old, I’ve experienced the highs and lows of the property market in this fantastic area. Working through the boom years before 2007, the financial crash of 2008, four General Elections and an EU Referendum, I think it’s fair to say I’ve seen it all. On top of that I met my wife in Esher and have since had two children -so it’s been a busy 15 years!
Why so popular?
Described by Dr Watson in the mystery stories of Sherlock Holmes as a ‘pretty Surrey Village’ and having been named the happiest town to live in by The Halifax Quality of Life Survey for 3 years consecutively, this leafy suburban town is certainly a desirable place to live. Perhaps I am biased but I feel Esher offers the perfect balance between a rural environment and a busy location which offers a plethora of sought-after amenities. It has a large choice of restaurants, bars, a cinema and independent local boutiques -you would expect nothing less from a popular neighbourhood in London!
"Esher and its neighbouring towns offer the feeling of space, beautiful countryside and impressive schools all whilst only being a stone’s throw from one of the world’s premier cities"
Who lives here?
Esher attracts a diverse selection of people which gives rise to the strong community spirit; a quality that money can’t buy. With some of Surreys finest schools located nearby, the area is an optimum destination for young families. Being so close to London, but enjoying a safe village environment is why our area is chosen by so many.
What are the properties like?
The diversity of accommodation here is vast, from new-build luxury mansions to ‘chocolate box’ cottages; the people I speak to are rarely disappointed with choice. Prices vary depending on taste and size but you should expect to pay between £600,000 and £900,000 for a quintessential cottage, £1,000,000 to £2,500,000 for a five or six bedroom family home and anywhere up to £10 million for a grand Surrey mansion.
The great outdoors
Offering an abundance of green outdoor space, you will never be short of choice for a country walk or recreational sport. There are many clubs offering participation in Cricket, Rugby, Tennis, Golf and not forgetting Cycling with access to some of the finest roads used for the road cycle race at the 2012 Olympic Games. The nationally recognised racecourse at Sandown is proudly positioned on the main street in Esher, offering race days, events and venue hire. The West End Summer Show in Esher boasts the annual flower show eagerly anticipated by families and gardeners alike.
On your doorstep
Less than 3 miles away is the marvellous area of East Molesey. There is so much to offer here with Hampton Court Palace (and the renowned flower show), the River Thames and Bushy Park to name just a few. It has a distinct feel of being in London with its choice of bars and restaurants, but also offers the peace and tranquillity of the surrounding country with its riverside location and national parks. Its tree lined streets; period properties and easy access to London via Hampton Court mainline station make it clear to see why it’s an enviable place to be.
My favourite spot
This is a tough one but I would have to say that I love the old fashioned non-commercial feel of Bridge Road in East Molesey. The independent cafes and the stunning river Thames make it a great place to be on a Sunday morning.
Alex Herman is the Office Head at the Knight Frank Esher office. If you are considering buying, selling or moving to the area- visit Knight Frank Esher to find out more or speak to a member of our team to see how we can help.