Is Old Woking a Nice Place to Live?

If you’re considering a move to Surrey, you may have stumbled across Old Woking. It’s a quaint little spot, nestled in the borough of Woking. But is it the right place for you? Well, let’s find out. Old Woking has its own unique charm, with a blend of history and modern development. From the lovely Basingstoke Canal winding through to the local cafes, there’s certainly a lot to talk about. However, like everywhere, it has its ups and downs. So, let’s dive into what makes Old Woking tick, the good parts and the not-so-good bits.

Is Old Woking safe?

When it comes to safety, locals have varied opinions, as you might expect. Some folks feel pretty cosy, with the community spirit being a real draw. However, there’s always the chatter about certain spots where things get a bit louder, often around Heathside Crescent and Cricketer Close. It’s not all doom and gloom, though. The local authorities are quite proactive in keeping things in check. It’s the usual mix you’d expect in a place this size, with the occasional boisterous event but nothing too alarming if you keep your wits about you.

Is Old Woking a nice place to live for families?

Family-friendliness

Old Woking is generally seen as a good spot for families. It’s got a fair few green spaces and playgrounds for the little ones to run about. Woking Park, for example, is a favourite for many, with lots of activities and space to kick a football around.

Schools

As for the schools, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. There’s an outstanding primary school nearby, St Dunstan’s Catholic Primary School, but getting a spot can be quite competitive, thanks to those pesky catchment areas. Some other schools like Kingfield Primary School and Westfield Primary School have decent reputations as well. However, secondary schools are a bit of a different story, as none in the immediate area have that coveted ‘outstanding’ label. It’s worth doing a bit of your own research if schooling is high on your list.

Is Old Woking expensive?

Now, onto the nitty-gritty of property prices. Old Woking sits in a rather cosy spot price-wise. The average property price is around £420,000, quite reasonable compared to some of the pricier spots down south. Semi-detached and terraced houses are popular here, hovering around the £445,000 mark. If you’re looking at renting, it’s not too shabby either, with a good variety of options. Compare that with somewhere like Guildford, and you might find your wallet not taking such a beating. However, some parts of Old Woking are pricier than others, so it’s worth having a nosy around.

What transport links are there?

Transport is a real plus here, with Woking’s train station not too far off, offering quick trips into London. Buses are fairly regular too, making it easy to nip around town or head further afield. The A3 and M25 are also handy, making commuting a breeze. So, if you need a place that caters to a commuter lifestyle, Old Woking might just do the trick.

What amenities are available in Old Woking?

Old Woking has a nice mix of amenities. You’ve got your essentials covered with a Sainsbury’s Local and a couple of convenience stores for those last-minute bits. Eating out? There’s a charming selection of cafes and restaurants. The Old Woking Cafe is a lovely spot for a cuppa, while there are also takeaways if you fancy a night in with a curry. Pubs like Kingsmeadow Sports Bar add a bit of local colour. Healthcare is sorted too, with doctors and pharmacies scattered around.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

If you’re an outdoorsy type, you’ll find plenty to explore around Old Woking. Woking Park offers lush greenery right on your doorstep. There are some cracking walks along the Basingstoke Canal or through the Loop Road Recreation Ground. Plus, if you’re up for a little drive, the Surrey Hills are just spectacular for a day out.

So, what’s the verdict?

All in all, Old Woking is quite a pleasant place to set up shop. It’s got a decent community vibe, good transport links, and enough amenities to keep life ticking along nicely. Schools could be better, and some areas could do with a bit more polish, but on the whole, it’s not a bad shout for families or commuters looking for a slice of Surrey life.

What are the alternatives?

If Old Woking doesn’t quite hit the mark, check out Horsell or Knaphill. Horsell has a bit more of that village feel and some good schools, whereas Knaphill has a bustling high street and pretty good housing options. Both offer a different vibe but are close enough to Old Woking to enjoy similar perks without straying too far. Ultimately, it’s worth a visit to see which spot feels like home to you.