Living in Godalming

Godalming is well-known for its strong sense of community and active local groups. Annual events such as the Godalming Food Festival, Godalming Christmas Lights Switch-On, and town fairs foster a lively community spirit and bring together residents of all ages.

The River Wey and adjacent parks provide settings for walking, running, and boating, while Phillips Memorial Park and Godalming Bandstand are focal points for relaxation and local music events. Community centres and local sports clubs are popular gathering spots, and weekly markets supply fresh produce and local craft goods. The town’s green spaces encourage an outdoor lifestyle and provide easy access to the surrounding Surrey countryside.

Godalming enjoys a reputation as one of Surrey's safer market towns, with crime rates generally below the national average. The town centre is well-patrolled by local police, and the community benefits from a dedicated policing presence. Streets are well-lit and the neighbourhood watch schemes are active, helping to maintain a secure environment for residents and visitors alike.

Some areas nearer the town centre experience occasional low-level crime such as anti-social behaviour, but overall, violent crime and burglary rates remain relatively low. Various community safety partnerships, including school liaison officers and local initiatives to support vulnerable groups, further strengthen the area’s positive safety record. Regular consultations between local police and the community ensure that any emerging safety issues are quickly addressed.

Parking in Godalming is generally manageable, with several options available throughout the town. Public car parks are conveniently located near the high street, Godalming railway station, and key community facilities. On-street parking is available in residential areas, though some streets are regulated with permits for residents to help prevent congestion. During peak hours or on market days, spaces can be in higher demand around central locations.

Road access is another advantage of living in Godalming. The A3 bypass provides a quick route to both London and Portsmouth, while smaller A-roads and rural lanes offer scenic drives through nearby villages and countryside. Godalming provides convenient access to several nearby towns and cities:

• Guildford – approx. 10 minutes via A3100 (4 miles)
• Woking – approx. 25 minutes via A320 (13 miles)
• Farnham – approx. 20 minutes via A31 (12 miles)
• London – approx. 60 minutes via A3 (31 miles)

Godalming boasts a diverse food scene with plenty of independent restaurants, classic English pubs, and stylish cafes. Popular choices include Baron’s Godalming, The Star—the town’s oldest pub, and Café Mila for vegetarian cuisine. A selection of traditional bakeries and global eateries enhances the local gastronomic character.

The pubs in Godalming are known for their character and friendly atmospheres, such as The Red Lion and The White Hart, offering everything from real ales to pub classics. For nightlife, though the town has a relaxed rather than boisterous vibe, there are several cosy wine bars and occasional live music venues. Those looking for late-night options often travel to nearby Guildford for theatres, clubs, and a livelier evening scene.

School quality: Godalming’s schools, including the well-regarded Godalming College and a choice of primary and secondary options, appeal to families pursuing high educational standards. Access to outstanding-rated schools enhances its family credentials.

Parks and green space: The town is home to parks such as Phillips Memorial Park, riverside walks, and recreational grounds, providing safe areas for children to play and explore.

Childcare: A range of nurseries, preschool settings, and after-school care services are available, supporting working parents.

Safety: Low crime rates and active neighbourhood watch schemes make Godalming an attractive choice for families prioritizing safety.

Family activities: Local leisure facilities, play areas, swimming pool, and events throughout the year offer plenty for families to do together. Easy access to the countryside and cultural attractions creates a varied family lifestyle.

Pet owners will find Godalming particularly welcoming, given the abundance of nearby parks, commons, and riverside paths ideal for dog-walking. The National Trust’s Winkworth Arboretum and nearby woodland trails in the Surrey Hills offer extended outdoor opportunities for pets and their owners.

The town centre features several pet shops, dog grooming salons, and veterinary practices, ensuring that animal needs are well catered for locally. Many pubs and several cafes in Godalming are dog-friendly, adding to the town’s pet-welcoming atmosphere. Rental accommodation may vary in their specific pet policies, but this is generally a pet-positive area.

Godalming's transport connections are one of its strongest assets, supporting both local journeys and longer commutes. The town's railway station is on the mainline between London Waterloo and Portsmouth, offering regular and direct services—making Godalming a preferred location for commuters.

• London Waterloo: Direct train services, typically 45–50 minutes
• Guildford: 5 minutes by train or 10 minutes by car
• Woking: 15–20 minutes by car or train
• Portsmouth: Around 1 hour 10 minutes by train
• Gatwick Airport: Approximately 40 minutes by car
• Heathrow Airport: About 40 minutes by car, depending on traffic

Godalming is well-served by local bus services, connecting it with Guildford, Farncombe, Milford, and surrounding villages. The A3 trunk road is easily accessible, providing a fast road route to London and the south coast. Local cycling routes and footpaths also facilitate eco-friendly travel for shorter distances.

Godalming is highly regarded for the range and quality of its educational establishments, making it a sought-after place for families prioritizing schooling.

Primary Schools

Notable primary schools in Godalming include Godalming Junior School (last Ofsted rated 'Good', March 2017), St Edmund's Catholic Primary School (Ofsted 'Good', January 2023), and Milford School (Ofsted 'Good', February 2020). Busbridge CofE Junior School is also highly regarded within the community (Ofsted 'Good', December 2022).

Secondary Schools

Broadwater School serves the local area and offers comprehensive education to ages 11–16 (Ofsted 'Good', February 2022). Nearby, Rodborough School in Milford is a popular choice and has been rated 'Good' alongside robust extra-curricular activities. Some students also travel to the outstanding-rated schools in Guildford for further education options.

Colleges and Sixth Forms

Godalming College is one of the most respected sixth form colleges in Surrey, offering A-level and BTEC courses. It consistently ranks highly in regional educational performance tables and is a draw for students from across Surrey and beyond.

Universities

While there are no universities directly within Godalming itself, the University of Surrey in Guildford is just a short journey away, providing access to higher education and contributing to the vibrant student presence in the wider area.