Area Guide: Godalming
A friendly, historic market town with timeless appeal, set on the banks of the River Wey.
Popular with families for its good schooling, many leisure activities and those looking to commute to London, Godalming strikes the perfect balance between quaint country living and being a bustling market town. It is also surrounded by some of Surrey’s most stunning villages and countryside making it an incredibly desirable place to live.
FOR SALE IN GODALMING
Did You Know?
Godalming was the first town in the world with a public electricity supply and electric street lighting.
Did You Know?
The Borough of Waverley, which includes Godalming, was judged in 2013 to have the highest quality of life in Great Britain and in 2016 to be the most prosperous place in the UK.
Godalming grew in size because its location is roughly half-way between Portsmouth and London, which encouraged traders to set up stalls and inns for travellers to buy from and rest in. Godalming came to attention in September 1881 for becoming the first town in the world with a public electricity supply!
The town has around 230 listed buildings, including Tudor timber framing and 17th century brickwork. Godalming Parish Church has an early Saxon chancel and Norman tower. The 19th century town hall (nicknamed ‘the Pepperpot’ due to its cupola) is an octagonal building situated on the High Street and one of the most recognisable in the town today.
Average values in Godalming have risen 45% in the last 10 years, up from an average of £463,356 in 2009 to £595,511 today (source Zoopla). Apartments have seen the biggest increase in value in the last 10 years, up 53%.
Did You Know?
The radio operator of RMS Titanic, Jack Phillips, famed for remaining at his post until the ship sank, was born and lived in Farncombe and worked in Godalming and at sea.
House Prices In Godalming
Godalming town centre is predominantly made up of desirable Victorian properties, which can be purchased anywhere from £350,000 to £1,000,000.
In more recent years there has been the development of more modern apartments catering for first time buyers and investors (from £250,000), through to those looking for more substantial family homes.
Within a few miles of the town centre you will find some of the most beautiful villages that Surrey has to offer, with varying styles of property and prices ranging from £400,000 to £5,000,000+.
Did You Know?
Charterhouse School in Godalming is one of the great historic schools of England. It is one of nine prominent schools, which included Eton College and Harrow School.
Did You Know?
The High Street and Church Street were used in the production of famous Christmas film, The Holiday, starring Jude Law, Jack Black, Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz.
Godalming’s attractive High Street has many historical and interesting buildings along with a good range of family run stores which continue the long standing tradition of being a market town. With a butcher, greengrocer and fishmongers plus many other independent and national retailers and a selection of restaurants, it has something to suit every taste.
The surrounding countryside is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and features some of the prettiest villages within the county.
The perfect place to enjoy some fresh air, Winkworth Arboretum features many walks suitable for all age ranges and mobility levels. After a morning immersed in nature, visitors can enjoy the tea room which serves refreshments and light lunches throughout the year.
With a history dating back to 1128, Waverley Abbey was the very first monastery founded in Britain. Whilst today the ruins offer a spectacular tourist attraction, this peaceful spot on a quiet loop of the River Wey still offers a glimpse of the solitude and tranquillity enjoyed by the monks almost 900 years ago.
