Ashtead is a large village in Surrey, situated between Leatherhead and Epsom on the southern edge of the London commuter belt. The settlement has ancient origins and developed around a rural landscape of woodland, commons and country estates. Ashtead Common, an extensive area of woodland and open countryside, is one of the defining features of the local environment. Today Ashtead is primarily residential but retains a strong village identity and provides convenient access to both London and the Surrey Hills.
Ashtead: Historical sights and information
Facts about Ashtead
- Latitude:
- 51.310072
- Longitude:
- -0.299663
- GPS Coordinates:
- 51°19' N, 00°18' W
The historical and tourist importance of the village
Ashtead Common is the principal natural attraction, offering a network of paths through ancient woodland and open heathland and providing an important habitat for wildlife. The nearby Surrey Hills offer further opportunities for walking and cycling, while Box Hill and the North Downs are within easy reach by road. Leatherhead and Epsom provide historic centres, parks and local attractions, and the magnificent gardens of RHS Garden Wisley are accessible for a longer excursion. Central London can also be reached relatively easily by rail, making Ashtead a practical base for combining countryside and city visits.
Food and when to visit
Ashtead has cafés, restaurants, pubs and local shops, while nearby Leatherhead and Epsom provide a broader range of shopping and dining. The surrounding Surrey countryside is known for local produce, traditional pubs and attractive country estates. Late spring through early autumn is particularly pleasant for exploring Ashtead Common and the Surrey Hills, while the woodland is attractive in autumn. The village is best suited to visitors seeking a peaceful Surrey base close to London, Epsom and the wider North Downs.
Locations & Tours
Discover famous landmarks, historical sites and tourist attractions in Ashtead.