Oxted

Oxted is a town and civil parish in the Tandridge district of Surrey, England, at the foot of the North Downs. It has a population of about 11,000 and is 18 miles (29 km) south of central London. The town has a history dating back to the Anglo-Saxon period, when it was recorded as Acustyde in a charter of 862 AD. The town is known for its historic buildings, such as the 15th century timber-framed stucco façades in the town centre, the 16th century Old Oxted, and the 19th century Shirley Windmill. Oxted also has a variety of attractions, such as the Oxted Museum, the Master Park, and the Everyman Cinema.

Education

Oxted is a town with a range of educational opportunities, both state and independent. The town has two secondary schools, Oxted School and Moor House School & College. Oxted School is a co-educational academy with a specialism in performing arts. Moor House School & College is a co-educational school for pupils with speech and language difficulties and offers a personalised curriculum.

Other notable independent schools in Oxted include Hazelwood School is a co-educational preparatory school with a focus on academic excellence and pastoral care. Woldingham School is a girls' boarding and day school with a Catholic ethos and a reputation for academic achievement and co-curricular activities. Caterham School, which is a co-educational school with a history of excellence in science, mathematics and technology.

The junior schools in Oxted are also highly regarded, such as Downs Way School, which is a primary school with an outstanding Ofsted rating and a creative curriculum. Holland Junior School is a junior school with a focus on developing the whole child and fostering a love of learning. St Mary's Church of England Primary School is a primary school with a Christian ethos and a nurturing and inclusive environment.

Local Attractions

Oxted has plenty to offer for culture, leisure and entertainment. The town has several historic landmarks, such as Titsey Place, which is a 16th-century manor house with beautiful gardens and fascinating stories. Old Oxted, which is a conservation area with timber-framed buildings and charming pubs. Master Park, which is a public park with play areas and sports facilities.

For nature lovers, Oxted has some of the best green spaces in Surrey, such as Limpsfield Common, which is an area of common land with woodland walks, golf courses and wildlife. Staffhurst Wood, which is an ancient woodland with bluebells, butterflies and birds. Chartwell, which is the former home of Winston Churchill and has stunning views, gardens and trails.

For arts and culture enthusiasts, Oxted has a vibrant scene with venues such as The Barn Theatre, which hosts theatre, cinema, music, comedy and community events. The Everyman Cinema shows the latest films in a luxury setting. There are also regular festivals and markets in the town centre that celebrate the local heritage, produce and talent.

Entertainment

Oxted has a range of options for dining out, from cosy pubs and cafes to fine restaurants and bistros. Some of the popular places to eat include Cucina Italiana, which serves authentic Italian cuisine in a cosy atmosphere. Toast, which offers delicious breakfasts, lunches and cakes in a friendly atmosphere. The George Inn, which is a traditional pub with real ale, live music and pub grub.

For nightlife, Oxted has several pubs and bars that cater to different tastes and moods. Some of the favourites are The Old Bell, which is a stylish pub with craft beers, cocktails and DJs. The Crown Inn is a cosy pub with open fires, board games and quiz nights. The Wheatsheaf is a lively pub with karaoke, pool table and sports TV.

Transport

Oxted is well connected to London and other destinations by road and rail. The town has a mainline railway station that offers frequent services to London Victoria, London Bridge, East Croydon, East Grinstead, and Uckfield. Journey times to London are around 40 minutes.

By car, Oxted is easily accessible from the M25, A25, and A22, which provide links to London, Gatwick Airport, Crawley, Leatherhead, Epsom, and Croydon. The town also has several bus routes that connect it to local villages and towns such as Westerham, Edenbridge, Caterham, Godstone.