Not driving in Surrey

[Newmum111111]

Hi all,
We are currently living in London but considering moving to Surrey. Our DD is almost 2 yo. As I don’t drive we are looking for a property walking distance (1/2 mile?) to station and nursery / schools. Also a station that is 30-40 min commute from Waterloo. However, we are struggling to find an area with both a nursery + state primary & secondary schools sufficiently close. Would also consider private but we would like to have the state option. Also, even if this equation is solved, not sure what we can do (kids activities, groceries, etc) without being able to drive (at least in the foreseeable future). Any suggestion would be very helpful. Thanks

I lived in Dorking for 10 years and found I mostly walked everywhere. Nursery, primary and secondary schools are all walking distance. Small town but has a Sainsbury's/Waitrose, can get you hair cut so fine for day to day.

Also what about Reigate or Redhill?

If you exhaust Surrey without finding anything suitable, consider going a little over the border to Farnborough. Fast train to Waterloo is regular, almost always get a seat, main station is walking distance to town, residential options are many and varied. Schools are generally very good.

Lots of people with kids in East/West Molesey don't drive. 411 bus takes you into Kingston. When they are little, lots of parties tend to be in local church halls within walking distance. When they are older, other parents are often willing to help out with lifts. Bushy Park, Hurst Park by the river and Hampton Court Palace all within walking/cycling distance for days out. Hampton Court Train station is about a 20/30 min walk depending on how far into West Molesey you live (or take 411 bus). Lots of great nurseries and state primaries within walking distance. It's a great community with lots for families. Pretty much all kids activities can be found within Molesey....ballet, football, drama, cricket, brownies/cubs, baby/toddler groups. State secondary is in Esher, reached by school bus. Small and medium sized Tesco in Molesey. River cycle rides to Walton or Kingston.

Not sure how far out of London you want to go or what your budget is but Teddington, East Molesey or Hampton are just into or just on the boarder of Surrey so have a similar feel and have schools etc but still have the benefit of good public transport by being in Zone 6.