Egham

What does Egham offer?

Nestled in the heart of Runnymede, UK, Egham is a picturesque and historic town that offers a delightful blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences. Steeped in history, Egham is perhaps best known as the location where King John signed the Magna Carta in 1215, laying the foundation for democracy and human rights. Today, Egham is a thriving community that provides a perfect setting for both residents and visitors to enjoy its rich heritage, beautiful scenery, and vibrant local culture. As you explore the quaint streets of Egham, you'll discover a wide array of architectural styles, ranging from charming Victorian houses to stunning contemporary buildings. The town boasts a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, catering to all tastes and preferences. In addition to its bustling high street, Egham offers a wealth of leisure pursuits, including lush parks, nature reserves, and sports facilities. The town's close proximity to the River Thames and the beautiful Runnymede meadows provides ample opportunities for scenic walks, picnics, and outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and tranquillity amidst the stunning English countryside.

Top attractions in Egham

1. Royal Holloway, University of London: A renowned educational institution with a stunning Victorian architecture, the Founder's Building. Visitors can enjoy guided tours and explore the on-campus art gallery and beautiful gardens.

2. Air Forces Memorial: This impressive monument commemorates the 20,456 men and women of the Allied air forces who lost their lives during World War II. The memorial offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the River Thames.

3. St. John's Church: A historic church dating back to 1817, featuring a striking Gothic Revival design. The church is a prominent local landmark and an excellent example of 19th-century ecclesiastical architecture.

4. Egham Museum: Located in the Literary Institute, the museum showcases the rich history of Egham and the surrounding area through engaging exhibitions, artefacts, and interactive displays.

5. Magna Carta Island: Situated near Egham, this small island on the River Thames is said to be the site where King John sealed the Magna Carta in 1215. The island is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and offers a peaceful riverside setting for picnics and leisurely strolls.

Best areas to live in Egham

1. Englefield Green: A picturesque, lush village boasting a warm community atmosphere, Englefield Green is perfect for those seeking a peaceful, family-friendly environment. Proximity to Royal Holloway, University of London adds a vibrant, academic touch to the area.

2. Virginia Water: Home to the stunning Virginia Water Lake, this affluent area offers luxurious living amidst beautiful woodland scenery. With its well-regarded schools and convenient transport links, Virginia Water is ideal for families and professionals alike.

3. Thorpe Lea Road: This residential street is lined with charming terraced houses and offers easy access to Egham's town centre, as well as excellent schools and local amenities. Its location makes it an attractive option for families and young professionals.

4. Harvest Road: A quiet, residential street with a mix of stylish apartments and family homes, Harvest Road is situated close to parks, schools, and the train station, making it a popular choice for families and commuters.

5. Pooley Green: An appealing neighbourhood, known for its well-maintained family homes and strong sense of community. With a variety of shops and amenities within walking distance, Pooley Green is a convenient and attractive option for families and professionals.

6. Vicarage Road: A tree-lined street, close to the town centre and train station, Vicarage Road is perfect for those who want a balance of convenience and tranquillity. The variety of detached and semi-detached homes attracts families and professionals alike.

7. Egham Hill: This prestigious location offers spacious, luxury properties with expansive gardens and stunning views, making it a sought-after area for high-end living. Easy access to the M25 and Heathrow Airport enhances its appeal for professionals and families.

8. Staines Road: A bustling street lined with a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, Staines Road offers convenient urban living. With a range of properties, including apartments and terraced houses, it's an ideal location for young professionals and students attending Royal Holloway.

9. Stroude Road: This residential area features a mix of detached and semi-detached homes, offering a suburban lifestyle with easy access to local amenities. Its proximity to the train station and M25 makes it an attractive option for commuters.

10. Station Road: As its name suggests, Station Road is ideally situated for commuters, with Egham train station only a short walk away. The street features an array of apartments and houses, making it a popular choice for professionals and students alike.

Best things about living in Egham

1. Rich History and Heritage: Egham is steeped in history, dating back to the 7th century. It is famously known for its close proximity to the site where the Magna Carta was sealed in 1215. Residents can explore the historical landmarks, such as the Magna Carta Memorial, the John F Kennedy Memorial, and the beautiful St. John's Church.

2. Proximity to London and Transport Links: Egham is ideally located, with excellent transport links to London, just 19 miles away. The town is well-connected by trains, with Egham railway station offering regular services to London Waterloo, Reading, and Weybridge. Its close proximity to Heathrow Airport and the M25 motorway also makes it convenient for travel across the UK and abroad.

3. Top Educational Institutions: Egham is home to the prestigious Royal Holloway, University of London, with its stunning Founder's Building and renowned academic reputation. This creates a vibrant and diverse community, attracting students and academics from around the world. Local primary and secondary schools, such as St. Cuthbert's Catholic Primary School and Magna Carta School, also provide excellent education opportunities for families.

4. Green Spaces and Scenic Surroundings: Egham is surrounded by picturesque countryside, providing residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities and leisurely strolls. The scenic Runnymede Park, Virginia Water Lake, and Windsor Great Park are all easily accessible, offering beautiful landscapes, walking trails, and picnic spots.

5. Thriving Community and Local Amenities: Egham has a strong sense of community, with a range of clubs, societies, and events for residents to get involved in. The town centre offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and pubs, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. The nearby Egham Leisure Centre provides sports and fitness facilities, while The Egham Museum showcases local history and hosts engaging exhibitions.

Drawbacks to living in Egham

1. Limited Entertainment Options: Egham is a small town, which means that the variety of entertainment options, such as shopping centres, restaurants, and nightlife, is limited compared to larger cities. Residents may need to travel to nearby towns or London for a wider range of activities and experiences.

2. Public Transport Connectivity: While Egham has a train station with direct connections to London, the frequency of trains is relatively low, particularly during off-peak hours. Additionally, the local bus service may not be extensive enough to cover all areas of the town, potentially causing inconvenience to those without a car.

3. Higher Cost of Living: Due to its proximity to London and the desirable Runnymede area, the cost of living in Egham can be higher than in other parts of the UK. This includes property prices, rental costs, and general day-to-day expenses.

4. Traffic Congestion: Egham is situated near the M25 motorway, which is notorious for heavy traffic and congestion, particularly during peak hours. This can lead to increased travel times and frustration for local residents who rely on the motorway for their daily commute.

5. Limited Job Opportunities: As a small town, Egham may not offer the same breadth of job opportunities as larger cities. Although there are some local businesses and Royal Holloway, University of London is a significant employer, residents may need to look further afield for diverse and high-level career opportunities.

Make better property decisions with Chimnie

Data technology & local insight to give you an edge

Chimnie

Chimnie helps you make better property decisions.

© 2024 Little Chimney Ltd. All rights reserved.