A pretty town, just one hour from London, is set among the scenic countryside with the ‘thriving feel of a town but the community of a village’ in one of the top places to live in the UK
There is a catalogue of picturesque towns offering an idyllic escape from the city, but only some have earned recognition as one of the ‘best places to live’ in the UK.
The charming town of Farnham in Surrey is nestled on the River Wey and is situated just 36 miles south-west of London, offering a direct train link in just one hour. But aside from its convenient location, Farnham has much more to offer with its cobbled streets, Georgian and timber-framed Tudor buildings, for a slice of quintessential England.
It’s been described as ‘vibrant’ by locals and as having the ‘buzzy, thriving feel of a town but the community of a village’ by experts who voted it as one of the best places to live in 2025. Farnham also proudly holds the title of England’s first ‘World Craft Town’, with the area hosting a remarkable number of craft makers.
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From budding crafters to those internationally acclaimed, the region also houses craft organisations, creative micro-businesses and independent creative enterprises. Its reputation for craft has made it an appealing and unique tourist spot – with a mix of craft heritage, festivals, pop-up events and art for sale.
Aside from its craft legacy, the town is steeped in history with its 12th-century Castle and Waverley Abbey, Britain’s inaugural Cistercian monastery. There’s also the Farnham Maltings, a former tannery and brewery that’s now a space for events, shows, crafts, and stores, with a riverside café and bar.
Elsewhere, there is a catalogue of restaurants, bars and pubs to enjoy during a leisurely day out in Farnham, along with a selection of shops. To take in the town’s scenic views, there’s the Farnham Park for a gentle stroll, or the Sculpture Park with an assorted collection of sculptures.
Following a visit earlier this year, someone shared on TripAdvisor: “Wow, what a wonderful and enchanted hideaway! Some of the very best sculptures I’ve ever seen in Europe! If you’re in or around Surrey, it’s an absolute must for art lovers.”
Nearby is the enchanting Alice Holt Forest, along with Bourne Wood and Birdworld, for a family day out. Plus, thanks to its position within the rolling Surrey hills, it provides easy access to green space and rural landscapes for those looking to explore further.
One traveller recalled their time in Farnham and said: “Lovely town, lots of great history. The park is amazing, and the high street is always super busy and bustling.”
Despite its growing appeal among Londoners and its nationwide reputation as an excellent place to reside, property prices in the town were falling. The overall average was down 7% from 2025 and 13% from the 2022 house price peak.
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