Ashtead City Guide

About Ashtead – History and Culture

Ashtead is a historic village nestled in the heart of Surrey, within the Borough of Mole Valley, approximately 15 miles southwest of London. Its origins date back to the Domesday Book of 1086, where it was recorded as 'Stede' (meaning a place). The village grew around the manor of Ashtead, with agriculture and woodland management shaping its early economy. The arrival of the railway in the 19th century transformed Ashtead into a desirable commuter village for London professionals, while carefully preserving its rural character.

Cultural highlights include the Ashtead Peace Memorial, built after WWI, and the 13th-century Church of St Giles, a Grade I listed building with remarkable stained glass. The village has a strong community spirit, with active societies for history, gardening, and drama. Ashtead Common, managed by the City of London Corporation, is a cornerstone of local identity, offering heathland, ancient woodland, and rich biodiversity.

• Ashtead was part of the Copthorne Hundred in medieval times.
• The village expanded significantly in the 1930s with the construction of private housing estates.
• Ashtead House, now a private hospital, was originally a Georgian mansion built in 1770.
• The 'Ashtead Institute' was built in 1907 as a community centre.
• Local folklore includes tales of 'Ashtead's White Lady', a ghost said to haunt the common.
• The village has two conservation areas: Ashtead Village and Ashtead Park.
• Cricket has been played on Ashtead Common since the 19th century.
• The annual 'Ashtead Village Show' showcases local produce and crafts.

Did You Know? – Facts about Ashtead

Ashtead is often described as one of the most desirable villages in Surrey, blending commuter convenience with a tranquil, leafy environment. It has won multiple 'Best Kept Village' awards and is noted for its high proportion of green space. The village is also a gateway to the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), offering immediate access to walking and cycling routes.

• Ashtead Common is one of only two London borough common lands outside London (owned by City of London).
• The village has over 1,000 listed buildings, including many Victorian and Edwardian houses.
• Ashtead's population has a median age of 42, reflecting a mix of families and retirees.
• The average house price in Ashtead exceeds £800,000, reflecting its affluence.
• There are over 20 designated 'ancient trees' on the common, some over 400 years old.
• Ashtead has no traffic lights within its centre, a rarity for a commuter village.
• The village has its own horticultural society, founded in 1898.
• Ashtead's railway station handles over half a million passengers annually.
• The village is twinned with Nozay, France, since 1990.
• Ashtead has a dedicated community police team and low crime rates.
• The local 'Ashtead Players' amateur dramatics group has been performing since 1946.
• St Giles Church has a ring of six bells, cast in 1962.
• The village green (Leg of Mutton Field) is a protected open space.

Geography and Climate of Ashtead

Ashtead lies on the northern edge of the Surrey Hills, on a gentle south-facing slope. The village is situated within the Mole Valley district, bordered by Leatherhead to the south and Epsom to the north. The landscape is dominated by Ashtead Common to the west and agricultural land to the east. The River Mole flows a mile south, but the village itself is not on a major watercourse.

• Ashtead has a temperate maritime climate, mild with rainfall spread throughout the year.
• Average summer temperatures reach 22°C (72°F), winter lows around 1°C (34°F).
• Annual rainfall is approximately 650 mm, drier than the UK average.
• Snowfall is occasional, typically 5-10 days per year.
• The highest point is around 80 metres above sea level near Ashtead Common.
• The village is underlain by London Clay, with Bagshot Sands on the common.
• Ashtead is not within a flood risk zone, though some surface water flooding occurs.
• Prevailing winds are from the southwest, moderating temperature extremes.

Things to Do in Ashtead

Ashtead offers a surprising variety of leisure activities, from walking ancient woodlands to enjoying local theatre. The village is compact enough to explore on foot, with many amenities clustered around the Craddocks Parade and The Street.

Food & Dining

Dining in Ashtead ranges from traditional English pubs to contemporary brasseries. The 'Woodman' pub is a favourite for Sunday roasts, while 'La Capanna' serves authentic Italian cuisine. For lighter bites, 'The Village Deli' offers artisan sandwiches and locally roasted coffee. The village also has a popular fish and chip shop, 'Sea Lane', and a Thai restaurant, 'Siam' .

• Woodman Pub – historic character, beer garden, gastropub menu.
• La Capanna – wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta.
• Siam Thai – authentic curries and stir-fries.
• The Village Deli – brunch, cakes, and artisan produce.
• Sea Lane Fish and Chips – traditional takeaway.
• Bluebeckers Café – homemade soups and jacket potatoes.
• Ashtead Tandoori – award-winning Indian cuisine.
• Craddocks Parade has a bakery, butcher, and greengrocer for self-catering.

Festivals & Events

The community calendar is vibrant, with events celebrating local culture, history, and the changing seasons. The highlight is Ashtead Village Day, held in June on the Leg of Mutton Field, featuring a classic car show, live bands, and children's activities. Christmas in Ashtead includes a lantern parade and carol singing at St Giles.

• Ashtead Village Day (June) – family fun day with stalls and entertainment.
• Ashtead Horticultural Society Spring Show (April) – flower, vegetable, and craft exhibits.
• Ashtead Players productions (throughout year) – plays and musicals.
• Summer BBQ at Ashtead Common (August) – community picnic with games.
• Remembrance Sunday parade (November) – tribute at the Peace Memorial.
• Ashtead Christmas Market (December) – artisan gifts and mulled wine.
• Open Gardens weekend (June) – private gardens open to public.

Cultural Attractions

Although small, Ashtead has cultural gems. St Giles Church is a must-see for its Norman architecture and peaceful churchyard. Ashtead Common provides a living museum of biodiversity, with guided walks. The nearby Leatherhead Theatre (1 mile) offers professional productions, and the Ashtead Institute hosts art exhibitions.

• St Giles' Church – Grade I listed, with a 13th-century chancel and 15th-century tower.
• Ashtead Peace Memorial – designed by Sir Reginald Blomfield, unveiled in 1921.
• Ashtead Common Nature Reserve – visitor centre with educational displays.
• Leg of Mutton Field – village green, site of cricket and events.
• Ashtead Institute – community hall with regular art and craft fairs.
• Leatherhead Theatre – professional theatre and cinema (nearby).
• Mole Valley Museum (Dorking) – local history exhibits.

Outdoor Activities

Ashtead is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Ashtead Common offers 500 acres of ancient woodland, heathland, and grassland, crisscrossed by footpaths suitable for walking, jogging, and horse riding. The Surrey Hills provide more challenging terrain. Golfers can enjoy the Ashtead Golf & Country Club, with an 18-hole course. Tennis courts and a bowling green are available in the village.

• Ashtead Common – 5km of marked trails, birdwatching hides, and butterfly meadows.
• Surrey Hills AONB – extensive network of footpaths and bridleways.
• Ashtead Golf & Country Club – parkland course with practice facilities.
• Ashtead Tennis Club – outdoor and indoor courts, membership available.
• Ashtead Bowling Club – green on Leg of Mutton Field.
• Cycle routes – quiet lanes connecting to the Downs Link and NCN route 22.
• Horse riding – stables along Ashtead Common offer lessons and hacks.
• Fishing – trout fishing at Bury Hill Fisheries (nearby).
• Parkrun – weekly 5k at Ashtead Common (Saturday morning).

Economy and Key Industries

Ashtead's economy is primarily service-oriented, with a strong retail sector focused on local convenience. Many residents commute to London for work in finance, law, and technology, contributing to the local wealth. The village itself has a mix of independent shops, professional services, and hospitality. The proximity to Leatherhead and Epsom provides additional employment in healthcare, research, and manufacturing.

• Retail – Craddocks Parade and The Street host boutiques, grocers, and pharmacies.
• Professional services – several chartered surveyors, estate agents, and law firms.
• Hospitality – pubs, restaurants, hotels (e.g., Ashtead Park Hotel).
• Education – St Giles' Primary and Rosebery School are major employers.
• Healthcare – Ashtead Hospital provides private medical services.
• Construction – local builders and contractors serve the housing market.
• Homeworking – a growing trend, with many self-employed residents.
• Nearby clusters – Epsom has a large BT office; Leatherhead has Unilever R&D.

Where to Live in Ashtead

Ashtead is predominantly a residential village, with a mix of period homes and modern estates. The most prestigious area is around Ashtead Park, featuring large Victorian houses set in leafy gardens. The 'Village' area near St Giles is popular for its historic charm and proximity to shops. The 'Woodfield' area offers more affordable semi-detached houses, while 'Barnett Wood Lane' has a suburban feel with access to the common.

• Ashtead Park – large detached houses, often with tennis courts and swimming pools.
• Village Centre (The Street, Craddocks) – period cottages and townhouses, close to amenities.
• Woodfield – 1930s semi-detached, popular with families.
• Barnett Wood Lane – woodland surroundings, larger gardens.
• Grange Road area – executive homes, many newly built.
• Leatherhead Road – mix of properties, bus route to town.
• Ashtead Common side – homes backing onto common, premium prices.
• Flats and apartments – limited, mostly above shops or in retirement complexes.

Formalities and Visas in Ashtead

Ashtead is within the UK, so immigration is managed through UK Visas and Immigration. For non-British/Irish citizens, a visa or immigration status may be required. The area is popular with expats, especially from Europe, UK, and Asia, due to its excellent schools and quality of life. The nearest visa application service point is in London (Croydon or central).

• EU citizens – now require settled status or visa (post-Brexit).
• Skilled Worker visa – common for professionals employed in London.
• Family visas – for spouses or dependents of UK residents.
• Student visas – for full-time courses at nearby universities.
• Global Talent visa – for academics and artists.
• Visitors – standard visitor visa allows up to 6 months.
• Biometric residence permit – required for visa holders, collect from local Post Office.
• Right to rent checks – landlords verify immigration status.
• Healthcare surcharge – paid with visa application for NHS access.
• No local visa office – appointments at UKVCAS centres in London.

Working in Ashtead

Employment opportunities within Ashtead are limited, but the village is a base for many who work in London, Guildford, or Surrey's business parks. Local jobs exist in retail, education, healthcare, and trades. The average commute to London is 40 minutes by train, making Ashtead ideal for professionals. Flexible and remote working have increased, with many residents working from home.

• Main sectors – finance, legal, tech, consulting (London-based).
• Local employers – Ashtead Hospital, Rosebery School, St Giles School, several care homes.
• Retail/hospitality jobs – limited but available in local shops and pubs.
• Professional services – estate agencies, accountants, and solicitors have offices.
• Homeworking – high-speed broadband widely available (fibre optic).
• Co-working spaces – in Leatherhead (1 mile) and Epsom (3 miles).
• Job market is competitive for local roles due to high qualifications.
• Apprenticeships – available through Surrey County Council and local businesses.
• Minimum wage – UK national minimum wage applies.
• Self-employment – common among tradespeople, consultants, and creatives.

Studying in Ashtead

Ashtead has excellent educational provision, with two highly regarded primary schools and a secondary school. Parents choose the area for its school catchment areas and small class sizes. For higher education, universities in London (e.g., UCL, Imperial, LSE) are easily accessible by train, and the University of Surrey in Guildford is a 30-minute drive.

• St Giles' CofE Infant School – rated Outstanding by Ofsted.
• St Giles' CofE Junior School – also Outstanding.
• Rosebery School – girls' secondary (ages 11-18), often oversubscribed.
• The Ashcombe School (Dorking) – mixed comprehensive, good transport links.
• Surrey Hills school bus service connects to Dorking and Leatherhead.
• Private schools – nearby Downsend School (Leatherhead) and Epsom College.
• Adult education – Mole Valley Learning offers courses in Ashtead Institute.
• Libraries – Leatherhead Library has study spaces and resources.
• University of Surrey – ranked top 10 for many subjects, strong research.
• Royal Holloway, University of London – 8 miles away in Egham.
• Kingston University – 25 minutes by train.
• Student accommodation – limited in Ashtead; most students live in Guildford or London.

Finance and Banks in Ashtead

Ashtead has limited banking facilities; there are no major bank branches left. However, cash machines are available at the Co-op and Post Office. Most residents use online banking or travel to Leatherhead (1 mile) where Barclays, HSBC, NatWest and Lloyds have branches. The village has a strong presence of independent financial advisors and mortgage brokers.

• Post Office – offers basic banking services (e.g., deposits, withdrawals).
• ATMs – located at Co-op food store and Craddocks Parade.
• Digital banking – most residents use apps (Monzo, Starling, traditional banks).
• Currency exchange – available at Leatherhead Post Office or banks.
• Mortgages – local brokers specialize in high-value property and buy-to-let.
• Taxes – council tax bands range from A to H; Ashtead is in Band F on average.
• Investment – many financial advisors in the area; no local stock exchange.
• Insurance – multiple brokers for home, car, and life insurance.

Health Care in Ashtead

Healthcare in Ashtead is served by local GP surgeries, dentists, and Ashtead Hospital (private). For NHS services, residents register with the Ashtead Village Surgery or the nearby Leatherhead Practice. Epsom General Hospital (NHS) is the nearest major hospital, about 4 miles away. Emergency services are well-coordinated, with ambulance response times typical for a semi-rural area.

• Ashtead Village Surgery – NHS GP practice, currently accepting new patients.
• Ashtead Hospital – private hospital with surgical and diagnostic services.
• Dentists – Ashtead Dental Practice and several in Leatherhead.
• Opticians – independent and chain (Scrivens) in Craddocks Parade.
• Pharmacies – Day Lewis Pharmacy in Craddocks Parade.
• Epsom General Hospital – A&E, maternity, and specialist services.
• Surrey Ambulance Service – responds to emergencies.
• Mental health support – Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Trust.
• Private health insurance popular – Bupa, AXA, etc. cover local services.
• Wellbeing services – yoga studios, Pilates, and holistic therapists in the area.

Accommodation in Ashtead

Accommodation in Ashtead is predominantly owner-occupied, with limited rental availability. The housing stock includes period properties, 1930s semis, modern executive homes, and some retirement apartments. Renting is expensive, with average monthly rents around £1,800 for a two-bedroom house and over £3,000 for a four-bedroom house. Buying a house requires significant capital; the average property price in 2024 is £850,000.

• Rental market – short supply, high demand; many properties let within days of listing.
• Buying – competition is strong; offers often exceed asking price.
• Types of homes – detached houses (most common), semi-detached, bungalows, flats (rare).
• Estate agents – local specialists include Burns & Webber, Curchods, and Wards.
• Council tax – Band D average around £2,200 per year.

Planning Your Move to Ashtead

Relocating to Ashtead requires careful planning due to the competitive property market and premium costs. It's advisable to research schools, commute times, and local amenities before moving. Many families move specifically for the schools. Hiring a removals company from Surrey is recommended; several are based in Leatherhead. Setting up utilities (gas, electric, water, internet) is straightforward, with most providers offering online switching.

• Property viewings – book early, especially for sought-after streets (The Warren, Kingsdowne Road).
• School applications – apply early for catchment areas; some parents move months ahead.
• Utilities – electricity: UK Power Networks; gas: Southern Gas Networks; water: SES Water.
• Internet – fibre broadband from Virgin Media, BT, and Hyperoptic in some areas.
• Council tax – register with Mole Valley District Council upon moving.
• Parking – many houses have driveways; on-street parking limited near station.
• Removals – quotes from multiple companies recommended.
• Pets – vets: Barnard & Hedley (Leatherhead) and Ashtead Veterinary Surgery.
• Community groups – join local Facebook groups for advice and tradesmen recommendations.

Leisure in Ashtead

Ashtead offers a relaxed lifestyle with a strong community focus. Evening entertainment is limited but there are several pubs (Woodman, Duke of Wellington, Cricketers) offering quiz nights, live music occasionally. The village has a cinema in nearby Leatherhead (Leatherhead Theatre). For those who enjoy sports, the Ashtead Leisure Centre (operated by Everyone Active) has a gym, swimming pool, and fitness classes. The retail scene consists of independent boutiques, a gift shop, and convenience stores.

• Pubs – The Woodman (gastropub, beer garden), Duke of Wellington (traditional), Cricketers (family-friendly).
• Leisure centre – Ashtead Leisure Centre (gym, pool, classes, sauna).
• Retail – Craddocks Parade has Co-op, chemist, butcher, bakery, deli, charity shops.
• Library – small library in Ashtead Village Hall, open limited hours.
• Cinema – Leatherhead Theatre (repertory and films).
• Fitness – several yoga studios and personal trainers operate locally.
• Golf – Ashtead Golf & Country Club (membership required).
• Bowling – Ashtead Bowling Club (social and competitive).

Transportation Options in Ashtead

Ashtead is well-connected by rail, with direct trains to London Victoria (37 minutes) and to Guildford (20 minutes). The station is a 10-minute walk from the village centre. Bus services connect to Leatherhead, Dorking, Epsom, and Kingston. Road access is via the A24 (Leatherhead to Worthing) and close to the M25 junction 9 at Leatherhead. Heathrow Airport is 30 minutes by car; Gatwick is 25 minutes. Cycling is popular, with quiet lanes and a network of National Cycle Network routes.

• Ashtead station – Southern Railway services to London Victoria and Sutton; also run by Great Western Railway to Reading (limited service).
• Bus services – routes 479 (Leatherhead - East Horsley), 408 (Epsom - Dorking), and 494 (Leatherhead - Esher).
• Road – A24 provides north-south access; M25 junction 9 is 2 miles south.
• Airports – Heathrow (30 min), Gatwick (25 min), London City (50 min), Stansted (1h 10m).
• Cycling – National Cycle Network route 22 passes nearby; limited cycle parking at station.
• Taxis – local firms: Ashtead Cars and Leatherhead Taxis.
• Parking – station has a car park (pay & display); village on-street parking limited.

Everyday Life in Ashtead

Everyday life in Ashtead is characterised by a village feel despite its proximity to London. The local paper is the Surrey Advertiser. The village is known for its community watch and low crime rate. Amenities are within walking distance for many, and there's a strong network of clubs and societies. The pace of life is slower than in London, but with easy access to city amenities. Post office, pharmacy, and grocery shops are open daily. Healthcare is accessible, and most people know their neighbours.

• Safety – crime rate is well below the national average; mostly anti-social behaviour and vehicle crime.
• Post office – located inside Craddocks Parade Co-op, open Mon-Sat.
• Places of worship – St Giles Church (CofE), Ashtead Baptist Church, Ashtead Methodist Church.
• Local media – Surrey Advertiser newspaper, BBC Radio Surrey.
• Community centres – Ashtead Institute, Village Hall, and St George's Hall.
• Clubs – gardening society, art group, bridge club, history society, walking group.
• Council services – Mole Valley provides refuse collection, recycling, and environmental health.
• Village life – many events rely on volunteers; residents are actively involved.

Cost of Living in Ashtead

The cost of living in Ashtead is higher than the UK average, particularly for housing and commuting. Utilities and groceries are slightly above average due to local shop premium. A family of four can expect monthly expenses of around £3,500 including rent/mortgage. Dining out is expensive, averaging £50 per person for a three-course meal. However, many leisure activities (walking, common) are free. Compared to central London, Ashtead offers better value for space and quality of life.

• Housing – average mortgage payment (based on 85% LTV) ~£3,500 pcm; rent ~£2,000 pcm.
• Council tax – Band D ~£2,200 per year.
• Utilities – gas/electric ~£150 pcm, water ~£40 pcm.
• Transport – season ticket to London ~£3,200 per year (zone 6).
• Groceries – weekly shop for two ~£80-100 at Co-op or Waitrose (Leatherhead).
• School costs – state schools free; private schools ~£15k/year.
• Holidays – many families travel regularly; flights from Gatwick.
• Childcare – nursery costs ~£1,200 pcm full-time (under 3).

Places to Visit in Ashtead

Ashtead is a gateway to many attractions in Surrey. Within the village itself, Ashtead Common is the top attraction, offering ancient woodlands, wildflower meadows, and a visitor centre. The Church of St Giles is a serene spot with historical significance. Nearby, the towns of Leatherhead (1 mile) and Dorking (5 miles) offer additional shopping and heritage. The Surrey Hills provide endless opportunities for walking and cycling, including Box Hill (7 miles), a National Trust site with panoramic views.

• Ashtead Common – 500 acres of nature reserve, perfect for family walks.
• St Giles Church – historic church with beautiful architecture and peaceful churchyard.
• Leg of Mutton Field – village green, cricket matches in summer.
• Leatherhead – historic market town with golf, theatre, and river walks.
• Box Hill – iconic viewpoint, climbing and mountain biking (National Trust).
• Dorking – town with antique shops, churches, and Denbies Wine Estate.
• Polesden Lacey – Edwardian house and gardens (National Trust), 6 miles.
• Epsom Downs – racecourse and open chalk downland.
• RHS Garden Wisley – world-class botanical garden, 12 miles.
• Chessington World of Adventures – family theme park, 5 miles.
• Hampton Court Palace – Henry VIII's palace, 10 miles (train).
• London – 40 minutes by train for museums, theatres, shopping.

News & Testimonies

Recent developments in Ashtead include the refurbishment of Ashtead Common visitor centre and community-led traffic calming projects. Locals often praise the village's community spirit and natural environment. Testimonies from residents highlight the balance of rural charm and city access, but some note the high cost of living and limited nightlife. The Ashtead Village Residents' Association actively campaigns for sustainable development.

• "Ashtead is the perfect place to raise a family – fantastic schools, safe streets, and beautiful countryside right on our doorstep." – Sarah, resident of 10 years.
• "We moved here from London for more space. The commute is easy and we love the village community." – James, cyclist and commuter.
• "The only downside is the lack of restaurants and evening entertainment, but we're close to Leatherhead." – Emma, young professional.
• "The common is a treasure. I walk there every day and never get bored." – David, retiree.
• "House prices are steep but you get what you pay for – a wonderful quality of life." – Mark, estate agent.

Forum Topics on Living in Ashtead

Online forums such as Mumsnet and local Facebook groups frequently discuss Ashtead. Common topics include school catchment areas, recommendations for tradespeople, property prices, and commuting tips. The sense of community is strong, with many offering help and advice. Below are some typical discussion threads.

• "Best primary schools in Ashtead – St Giles vs other options?"
• "Is Ashtead still commuter-friendly post pandemic?"
• "Relocating from London – tips for getting on the property ladder in Ashtead."
• "Which pub in Ashtead is the most family-friendly?"
• "Has anyone used Ashtead Hospital for private treatment?"
• "What's the dog-walking community like on the Common?"
• "Internet providers in Ashtead – who is fastest?"
• "Ashtead to London train – frequent delays?"
• "Any good childminders in the Woodfield area?"
• "Ashtead vs. East Horsley – which is better for young families?"

Life in Ashtead Summary

Ashtead is a quintessential English village that successfully blends rural tranquility with urban convenience. Its key strengths are outstanding schools, beautiful natural surroundings, and a strong community. However, the high property prices, limited nightlife, and reliance on cars for some services are notable drawbacks. For families and professionals seeking a high quality of life within commuting distance of London, Ashtead is an excellent choice.

• Pros: Excellent schools, low crime, green spaces, community feel, fast London commute.
• Cons: Very expensive housing, limited rental supply, few evening activities, need to travel for major shops.
• Ideal for: Families with children, professionals commuting to London, retirees seeking peace.
• Not ideal for: Nightlife seekers, those on a tight budget, young singles without cars.
• Overall: Highly desirable but not without trade-offs.

Important Places and Distances from Ashtead

Ashtead village centre is compact, with most amenities along The Street and Craddocks Parade. Key places include the railway station (0.5 miles from centre), Ashtead Common entrance (0.5 miles), Leg of Mutton Field (0.2 miles), and St Giles Church (0.3 miles). The nearest town is Leatherhead (1.5 miles). Distances to major cities and landmarks are provided below.

• Ashtead Railway Station – 0.5 miles (10 min walk).
• Ashtead Common Visitor Centre – 0.8 miles from village centre.
• Leatherhead town centre – 1.5 miles (5 min drive, 30 min walk).
• Epsom town centre – 3 miles (10 min drive).
• Dorking town centre – 5 miles (12 min drive).
• London Victoria station – 22 miles (37 min by train).
• Heathrow Airport – 20 miles (30 min drive).
• Gatwick Airport – 18 miles (25 min drive).
• Box Hill National Trust hub – 7 miles (15 min drive).
• RHS Garden Wisley – 12 miles (20 min drive).
• M25 motorway junction 9 – 2 miles (5 min drive).

Geography & Location

Region

Greater London

Local Reach

High Growth

Timezone

UTC/Local

Fascinating Local Facts

- Ashtead is often referred to as the 'Gateway to the Surrey Hills'.
- The name derives from Old English 'æsc-stede' meaning 'place of ash trees'.
- Ashtead Common is a 500-acre National Nature Reserve, home to ancient oaks and rare beetles.
- The village boasts one of the oldest working cricket clubs in Surrey, founded in 1850.
- Ashtead was a major centre for Roman brickmaking; bricks were used to build parts of Londinium.
- The Grade II listed Ashtead Park House was once a country estate for the 1st Earl of Onslow.
- Ashtead has a population of around 14,000, striking a balance between suburban and rural.
- The village is part of the Borough of Mole Valley, known for its high quality of life.
- Ashtead railway station opened in 1859 and has direct trains to London Victoria in under 40 minutes.
- The 'Ashtead Peace Memorial' commemorates local soldiers from World War I.
- Ashtead has no motorway access, preserving its village character, but is close to M25 junction 9.
- The village hosts an annual 'Ashtead Village Day' with a parade, stalls, and live music.
- Famous residents include actress Dame Judi Dench, who lived here as a child.
- Ashtead is surrounded by Green Belt land, preventing urban sprawl.
- The area is popular with families due to its outstanding primary schools (e.g., St Giles' CofE).