Reigate

Reigate is a historic town in Surrey, England, around 19 mi (31 km) south of central London. The town has a population of about 22,000 and is the seat of the borough of Reigate and Banstead. The town was founded in the 11th or 12th century, when a motte-and-bailey castle was built on a hill overlooking the settlement. The town also has a medieval church, a 16th century priory and a 19th century town hall. Reigate offers a variety of attractions, such as the Reigate Museum, the Reigate Castle, and the Reigate Hill and Gatton Park.

Education

Reigate is a town with excellent educational opportunities, both state and independent. Reigate Grammar School has a strong reputation for music, drama and sport. St Bede's School is a Catholic school with a specialism in languages and a rich cultural diversity.

Other notable independent schools in Reigate include Reigate St Mary's Preparatory and Choir School, a co-educational school with a Christian ethos and a renowned choir performing regularly at local and national events. Micklefield School is a co-educational school with a focus on creativity, individuality and community. Dunottar School is a co-educational school with a history of excellence in science, mathematics and technology.

The state schools in Reigate are also highly regarded, such as The Royal Alexandra and Albert School is a co-educational boarding and day school with a strong pastoral care system and a wide range of facilities. Reigate Priory School is a junior school with an outstanding Ofsted rating and a stimulating curriculum.

Local Attractions

Reigate has plenty to offer for culture, leisure and entertainment. The town has several historic landmarks, such as Reigate Castle, which was built in the 12th century and has a picturesque park with a lake, caves and a maze. Reigate Priory was founded in the 13th century as an Augustinian monastery and later became a stately home for the Howard family. It now houses the Reigate Priory Museum, which displays local history and artefacts.

For nature lovers, Reigate has some of the best green spaces in Surrey, such as Priory Park, which features a large lake, woodland walks, play areas and sports facilities. Reigate Heath, which is an area of common land with stunning views, golf courses and wildlife. Gatton Park is a historic parkland designed by Capability Brown and has beautiful gardens, lakes and trails.

For arts and culture enthusiasts, The Old Town Hall Arts Centre showcases contemporary art by local and national artists. There are also regular festivals and markets in the town centre that celebrate the local heritage, produce and talent. The Everyman Cinema shows the latest films in a luxury setting.

Entertainment

Reigate 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 Cullenders Kitchen & Deli, which offers fresh seasonal food in a relaxed atmosphere. La Barbe Restaurant & Bar, which serves authentic French cuisine in an elegant setting. The Black Horse is a traditional pub with real ale, live music and pub grub.

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

Transport

Reigate 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, London Blackfriars, Gatwick Airport, Reading, Redhill, Guildford, Dorking, Horsham, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, Eastbourne, Brighton, and Hastings. Journey times to London are around 40 minutes.

By car, Reigate is easily accessible from the M25, M23, A217, A25, and A24, which provide links to London, Gatwick Airport, Heathrow Airport, Crawley, Leatherhead, Epsom, and Croydon. The town also has several bus routes that connect it to local villages and towns such as Banstead, Chipstead, Merstham, Salfords, and Betchworth.