Epsom or Dorking

[19066264wow]

We currently live in Blackheath with 1 toddler but want more space out of London. Would love to find somewhere with good schools, great parks, close to countryside and a good highstreet. I've heard dorking and epsom are nice with good links to London Bridge/bank station area. What are your thoughts on the area and any other suggestions.

I know both well. London commute is better from Epsom, and Epsom is busier/ more there, but Dorking is nicer. I'd happily live in either location though.

In terms of schools, it depends on money... if you can afford a house near Wallace Fields School in Epsom that's a fantastic state option. Some poor schools in Epsom too though. Lots of independent options in the Epsom area. I know less about the Dorking schools.

Have you considered Reigate? Another good option and reasonable commute.

Between Epsom and Dorking it would be Dorking for me - much closer to Surrey Hills AONB. Neither has great shopping, suffering from proximity to Kingston and Guildford but both have everyday stuff, just nothing exciting. Epsom will be better VFM than Dorking though