Living in Windlesham

Community life in Windlesham is rooted in its village traditions, supportive networks, and calendar of local events. The area is known for its welcoming, community-driven atmosphere, attracting those who value neighbourliness and shared initiatives. The Windlesham Society organises various village events, including summer fetes, carol services, and environmental projects.

There are excellent opportunities to get involved at the Windlesham Community Hub, which hosts classes, coffee mornings, and parent–toddler groups. The village is surrounded by countryside footpaths, offering scenic walks, woodland rambles, and access to green spaces like Windlesham Field of Remembrance and the nearby Lightwater Country Park.

The annual Windlesham Pram Race, held on Boxing Day, is a much-loved local tradition and exemplifies the area’s close-knit spirit. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy golf at Windlesham Golf Club or join local cycling and running groups exploring Surrey’s scenic byways.

Windlesham is generally perceived as a safe and low-crime area within Surrey, benefitting from its semi-rural setting and close-knit community. The village experiences lower levels of crime compared to nearby urban centres, which contributes to its appeal among families and older residents.

Community policing collaborates closely with residents, and local Neighbourhood Watch schemes are active in promoting security and vigilance. While instances of serious crime are rare, as with any area, minor offences can occur, particularly opportunistic thefts or anti-social behaviour. However, Windlesham’s high levels of community engagement foster a reassuring environment and a strong sense of safety.

Parking in Windlesham is generally straightforward, with most homes benefitting from off-street parking and driveways. On-street parking is available around the village centre, though some restrictions may apply during busy times or near popular venues. There are no local car parks, so street parking is the primary option for visitors.

The village is easily reached by road, situated just off Junction 3 of the M3. The A30 and A322 also provide fast routes to nearby towns and the M25. Traffic congestion is typically moderate, with some peak-time delays near motorway junctions or during school runs, but significant hold-ups are rare in the immediate area.

Nearby destinations by road:

• Camberley – approx. 10 minutes via A30 (5 miles)
• Ascot – approx. 15 minutes via A30 (6 miles)
• Guildford – approx. 25 minutes via A322 (16 miles)
• Woking – approx. 20 minutes via A322 and A319 (10 miles)
• Heathrow Airport – approx. 25 minutes via M25 (16 miles)

Windlesham offers a select range of traditional village pubs and stylish eateries, befitting its relaxed rural atmosphere. The Brickmakers Arms and The Surrey Cricketers are both much-loved destinations for classic pub fare and cosy surroundings. The Half Moon pub, just outside Windlesham, is also popular for its modern take on British cuisine.

For dining out, Windlesham has some charming cafés, like The Windlesham Pantry, offering homemade treats and lunch options. Fine dining is available nearby in Ascot and Surrey’s Michelin-starred restaurants, while takeaway choices include local Indian, Chinese, and Italian establishments.

Windlesham is not known for a bustling nightlife, but neighbouring Ascot and Camberley provide a wider selection of bars, cocktail lounges, and entertainment venues. For live music, theatre, or late-night venues, residents often head to larger towns such as Woking or Windsor.

School quality: Windlesham’s local schools have strong reputations and Ofsted ratings, ensuring families have reliable options for early education and access to excellent secondary and independent schools close by.

Parks and green space: Green spaces and playgrounds, like Windlesham Field of Remembrance, provide safe and scenic spots for children to play and for families to enjoy the outdoors.

Childcare: A variety of local nurseries, pre-schools, and childminders operate in and around the village, supporting working families and young children’s needs.

Safety: Windlesham’s low crime rates and community involvement offer reassurance to parents, reinforcing the village’s suitability for family living.

Family activities: Annual community events, outdoor clubs, nearby animal parks, and easy access to attractions like Windsor Great Park ensure plenty of family-friendly things to do throughout the year.

Windlesham’s wealth of open spaces and countryside footpaths make it an ideal environment for pet owners, particularly those with dogs. The Windlesham Field of Remembrance provides a secure and popular area for dog-walking, while Lightwater Country Park and Chobham Common are nearby destinations perfect for longer outdoor adventures.

Local veterinary practices serve the community, and pet shops can be found in neighbouring towns such as Bagshot and Camberley. Several local pubs, including The Surrey Cricketers, are known to welcome dogs, and many rental properties and homes in Windlesham are accommodating to pets.

The overall attitude in Windlesham is pet-friendly, with responsible ownership encouraged and a sociable network of fellow animal lovers throughout the village and its surrounds.

Windlesham’s location close to major road and rail links makes it convenient for commuters and families travelling around Surrey and the wider southeast. The village is a short drive from the M3 motorway, placing London, Southampton, and major towns like Woking within easy reach.

While Windlesham itself does not have a train station, nearby Bagshot and Sunningdale stations provide regular rail services to London Waterloo, Guildford, Reading, and beyond. Bus services connect Windlesham with local centres, and Heathrow Airport is under 30 minutes away for international travel.

Key commute times from Windlesham:

• London Waterloo – Approx. 50 minutes by train from Sunningdale
• Guildford – Around 25 minutes by car or 35 minutes by train (via Woking)
• Reading – Approx. 35 minutes by car or direct train from nearby Ascot
• Heathrow Airport – Less than 30 minutes by car and easily accessed via M25
• Windsor – About 20 minutes by car via A30

Public transport is widely used by residents, especially those commuting to London, and the area’s proximity to good road networks ensures convenient car travel to surrounding towns and beauty spots.

Primary Schools in Windlesham:

Windlesham Village Infants School is located at the heart of the village and is well-regarded locally for its friendly environment (Ofsted: Good, 2022). Valley End C of E Infant School, just outside Windlesham, is another popular choice, achieved an Ofsted "Outstanding" rating in 2018 and is known for its nurturing ethos.

Secondary Schools near Windlesham:

There are no secondary schools directly in Windlesham, but the nearby Tomlinscote School in Frimley (Ofsted: Good, 2022) and Charters School in Sunningdale (Ofsted: Outstanding, 2022) serve the area. Both have strong reputations for academic progress and extra-curricular opportunities, attracting students from Windlesham and neighbouring villages.

Independent and Specialist Schools:

There are a number of highly regarded independent schools within easy reach, including Hall Grove School and Woodcote House School (prep schools), and St George's School (co-ed independent) in Ascot. Heathfield School and LVS Ascot provide nearby independent options for secondary education.

Colleges & Sixth Forms:

The Sixth Form College Farnborough is a leading post-16 provider in the region, popular with Windlesham residents for its wide subject range and strong exam results. Bracknell and Woking Colleges are also accessible options for vocational and A-level courses.

Universities:

There are no universities in Windlesham itself, but the University of Surrey in Guildford and Royal Holloway, University of London, in Egham, are both within a short driving distance, offering a diverse array of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.