Woking is a popular town in Surrey, just 25 minutes by train from London. With good schools, parks, and local amenities, it’s a great option for families and commuters. This guide covers everything you need to know about moving to Woking, including housing, transport, schools, and more.
Location and Transport Links
Woking is located in the south-east of England, in the county of Surrey. It’s just 23 miles from London, making it ideal for those who want to live outside the capital but still commute in easily.
Woking has excellent transport connections. Trains run frequently to London Waterloo, with journey times of around 25 minutes. There are also direct trains to Guildford, Basingstoke, and Portsmouth.
The town is close to the M25 and A3, giving drivers good access to surrounding areas. Heathrow Airport is about 30 minutes away by car, and Gatwick is around 45 minutes.
Buses connect Woking to nearby towns like Chobham, West Byfleet, and Guildford. There are also safe cycle paths and scenic walking routes along the Basingstoke Canal.
Housing Market in Woking
If you’re moving to Woking, you’ll find a range of housing options. There are modern flats in the town centre, family homes in the suburbs, and larger properties in nearby villages.
Popular residential areas include:
St John’s: Quiet and family-friendly, with good schools and parks.
Horsell: A pretty village atmosphere, just a short walk from the town centre.
Knaphill: Offers a mix of affordable homes and good local amenities.
West Byfleet: A nearby village with its own train station and good schools.
House prices in Woking are above the national average, reflecting the town’s popularity and location. Rental properties are also available for professionals and families, especially near the station and schools.
Schools and Education
Woking has a number of well-regarded schools, making it a good choice for families. There are both state and private options available.
Top primary schools include:
- Goldsworth Primary School
- Westfield Primary School
- Horsell Church of England Junior School
For secondary education, popular choices include:
- Woking High School
- The Winston Churchill School
- Hoe Valley School
There are also private schools nearby, such as Halstead Preparatory School and St Andrew’s Woking.
For further education, Woking College offers A-level and vocational courses. Nearby universities include the University of Surrey in Guildford and Royal Holloway in Egham.
Jobs and Employment
Woking has a strong local economy and is part of the wider Surrey business region. It’s home to a mix of companies in sectors like tech, retail, healthcare, and finance.
Major employers include McLaren Group, WWF-UK (whose HQ is in Woking), and SABMiller. The town centre has several business parks and office spaces.
Many residents also commute to London, thanks to the fast and reliable train service. Other commuters work in nearby towns like Guildford, Farnborough, or Reading.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Woking town centre has everything you need. The Victoria Place Shopping Centre and Wolsey Place shopping centres offer high-street brands, supermarkets, and services. There’s also a large Morrisons and an M&S food hall.
Woking’s dining scene blends reliable chains with inviting independents. A standout is Bacaro, a cosy Italian‑style bar on Commercial Way. It offers well-crafted pasta, seafood, steak, and sharing plate.
Other local favourites include:
Cellar Magneval: A wine bar with food and live music
Everest Spice: A popular Nepalese-Indian restaurant praised for its quality food and warm service
Jeitta: Serving Lebanese cuisine
For entertainment, the New Victoria Theatre hosts plays, concerts, and comedy shows. There’s also a cinema and leisure centres with gyms and pools.
Outdoor Spaces and Leisure
Woking offers plenty of green spaces. Woking Park is centrally located and has a play area, splash pool, sports fields, and a leisure centre.
Other popular spots include:
Basingstoke Canal
A much-loved 32-mile waterway flowing through Woking. It’s ideal for walks, cycling, fishing, and canoeing. You can also take a scenic boat trip on the historic 12-seat vessel Kitty, departing from Woking Town Wharf during spring to autumn.
Horsell Common
A vast 916-acre heathland located north of the town. Its mix of woodland, meadows, vegetated ponds, and sandy “Sandpit” makes it a wildlife hotspot. Look out for rare birds like nightjars, woodlarks, and Dartford warblers, as well as butterflies and dragonflies. It’s a favourite with walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers.
Goldsworth Park Lake
A scenic 14-acre lake set within a friendly community park. It offers a flat 1.25 km walking trail, a café, a playground, outdoor gym, miniature boating, fishing, and plenty of picnic spots. It’s also home to a healthy fish population, including carp, pike, and tench.
The town also has golf clubs, sports teams, and fitness classes for all ages. For more adventurous activities, the nearby Surrey Hills offer hiking, mountain biking, and stunning views.
Healthcare Services
Woking has good access to healthcare. There are several GP surgeries and dental clinics throughout the town.
The nearest hospital with A&E is St Peter’s Hospital in Chertsey, about 20 minutes away by car. Other nearby hospitals include Royal Surrey in Guildford.
For private healthcare, the Nuffield Health Guildford Hospital is a short drive away. Woking also offers wellness services, including physiotherapy, mental health support, and yoga studios.
Community and Social Life
Woking has a strong community feel. Local groups and clubs cater to all ages and interests – from sports and fitness to gardening, arts, and music.
Community centres like The Lightbox host exhibitions, workshops, and talks. There are also libraries, youth clubs, and parent groups around the town.
Each year, the town hosts events with music, food, and family fun. There’s also a Christmas light switch-on, farmer’s markets, and theatre festivals.
Tips for Moving to Woking
Visit neighbourhoods before choosing where to live. Think about your commute, nearby schools, and local services.
Use a trusted removal service – look for local companies with good reviews and optional storage solutions in Woking.
Get to know your area – check out local Facebook groups, libraries, and community events to connect with neighbours.
Register with a GP and dentist soon after moving. Booking early helps avoid waiting lists.
Conclusion
Moving to Woking offers the best of both worlds – fast access to London and a relaxed lifestyle in leafy Surrey. With excellent transport links, good schools, a strong local economy, and plenty to do, it’s easy to see why so many people choose to call Woking home.
Whether you’re a young professional, growing family, or looking for a new start, Woking is a smart and well-connected place to settle down.
