Living in Hindhead

Hindhead’s social character is shaped by a strong sense of community and active involvement in local events. The area has a peaceful, close-knit atmosphere, with residents regularly supporting local initiatives, markets, and country fairs. Community centres and church halls offer various clubs and activities for all age groups throughout the year.

Outdoor life is a major aspect of local living, thanks to the adjacent Devil’s Punch Bowl and Hindhead Common, which provide miles of walking, cycling, and riding trails. The National Trust visitor centre, local wildlife, and scenic picnic spots make these areas the heart of community recreation. There are also regular events such as guided walks, art exhibitions, and conservation volunteering that foster neighbourly engagement.

Crime rates in Hindhead are generally low compared to urban centres, contributing to a widespread perception of the village as a safe place to live. The area benefits from community policing and a strong neighbourhood watch presence, which keeps residents engaged and aware of local issues.

As a rural community on the borders of national trust land, Hindhead experiences minimal antisocial behaviour, though occasional minor incidents such as petty theft or car break-ins may occur. The sense of neighbourliness and regular community engagement help foster a safe and secure environment for all age groups. Ongoing regeneration and local initiatives further enhance Hindhead’s reputation for safety.

Parking in Hindhead is generally straightforward, with on-street parking available in residential areas and designated spaces near local amenities. Residents are also able to apply for permits in certain streets, particularly close to village shops and popular walking areas such as the Devil’s Punch Bowl.

The rerouting of the A3 through the Hindhead Tunnel has significantly reduced congestion in the village. Access by car is excellent, with direct links to the A3 for north-south travel. The area is well placed for travel to major towns and cities:

• Guildford – approx. 25 minutes via A3 (15 miles)
• Portsmouth – approx. 45 minutes via A3 (37 miles)
• Aldershot – approx. 30 minutes via A31/A287 (16 miles)
• London – approx. 55 minutes via A3 (39 miles)

The relative lack of heavy daily traffic and the bypassing of through-traffic by the tunnel makes road access and parking in Hindhead less problematic than in many comparable villages.

Hindhead offers a relaxed, village-style social scene centred on quality pubs, independent cafés, and picturesque country restaurants. The renowned Devil’s Punchbowl Hotel serves traditional fare and is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors. Other nearby pubs include The Royal Oak and the quaint Three Horseshoes in Thursley, both known for good food and a welcoming atmosphere.

Cafés such as the Cookie Bar provide a community hub in the village, while independent bakeries and food shops supply artisan produce. For wider dining options, Haslemere’s High Street, a short drive away, hosts a diverse range of international restaurants, casual dining spots, and cosy coffee shops.

Nightlife in Hindhead is limited due to its rural nature, but the area benefits from close proximity to Haslemere, which offers wine bars, live music venues, and the Haslemere Hall theatre. Most of Hindhead’s evening life revolves around friendly local pubs, seasonal events, and relaxed evenings rather than a bustling nightlife atmosphere.

School Quality: Hindhead is valued by families for its access to several highly regarded schools, both state and independent, making it an appealing choice for those prioritising education.

Parks and Green Space: The abundance of green space, notably the Devil’s Punch Bowl and Hindhead Common, offers plentiful opportunity for outdoor activities, walks, and family picnics.

Childcare: There are local nurseries, pre-schools, and after-school clubs, supported by community groups and childminding services in the area and neighbouring Haslemere.

Safety: With low crime rates and an established community spirit, Hindhead is often considered a safe and nurturing environment for children.

Family Activities: Family events are regularly organised at the Punch Bowl and community spaces, from seasonal fairs to educational workshops and wildlife trails, contributing to a vibrant family-friendly atmosphere.

Hindhead is renowned for its pet-friendly appeal, thanks to extensive woodland, footpaths, and open heath set within the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Devil’s Punch Bowl and adjoining commons are especially popular with dog owners, providing ample off-lead exercise opportunities and marked dog-walking trails.

Local veterinary practices serve Hindhead and surrounding villages, and there are several pet shops in neighbouring Haslemere. Many pubs and cafés welcome dogs, and the community is supportive of responsible pet ownership, both in homes and public spaces. The area’s low traffic, rural setting, and widespread green space make it an excellent choice for pet lovers.

Hindhead's location makes it appealing for those seeking countryside living with accessible commuter options. The area is notable for being near the A3, providing a direct road link between London and Portsmouth, and benefiting from the Hindhead Tunnel, which has improved journey times and reduced local congestion.

Train services are available from Haslemere station, about 3 miles away, offering frequent and direct services to London Waterloo, with journeys typically taking around 55 minutes. For those travelling regionally, local bus routes connect Hindhead to Haslemere, Guildford, and Farnham.

Key commute times by public transport:

• London Waterloo: Approx. 55 minutes by train from Haslemere
• Guildford: 24 minutes by train from Haslemere
• Portsmouth: About 56 minutes by train from Haslemere

For international travel, London Heathrow Airport is about 35 miles away and Gatwick Airport roughly 42 miles away, both accessible via A3 and connecting roads. Hindhead’s position allows for easy access to the wider South East by both train and car, making it suitable for commuters and frequent travellers.

Schools in Hindhead and the surrounding area offer a variety of educational options, with both state and independent institutions catering to children of different ages. The area is popular among families due to the strong reputation of its schools and quality of educational provision.

Primary Schools:
Stepping Stones School, located in a tranquil setting on Tilford Road, provides specialist education with a focus on additional needs. St Edmund’s Catholic Primary School, in neighbouring Godalming, holds an Ofsted 'Outstanding' rating (2017) and is widely regarded for its academic results. Beacon Hill Community Primary School, within Hindhead’s vicinity, is a popular choice known for its welcoming community ethos (Ofsted 'Good', 2019).

Secondary Schools:
The Royal School, set in spacious grounds near Hindhead, is an independent co-educational school catering for ages 4-18, recognised for its broad curriculum. Woolmer Hill School in nearby Haslemere is a state secondary with a 'Good' Ofsted rating (2018), drawing students from Hindhead and the surrounding villages.

Independent Schools:
Hindhead is particularly noted for its private schools. The Amesbury School is a well-respected preparatory school (ages 2–13) situated on the edge of Hindhead and the rural neighbouring countryside. Edgeborough School, on the Godalming border, also draws families who prioritise independent education.

Colleges & Universities:
Further education providers are found in nearby Farnham, Guildford, and Godalming. Farnham College and Godalming College both offer robust sixth form and A-level programmes. For university-level study, the University of Surrey in Guildford is just over 14 miles away, offering a full range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses and recognised for its excellent research and campus facilities.