Esher sits in the Surrey countryside approximately 14 miles southwest of central London, making it a popular location for those seeking a balanced lifestyle within reach of the capital. The town has evolved from its medieval origins—when it was mentioned in the Domesday Book—into one of Surrey’s most prestigious areas.

The town grew substantially during the 18th and 19th centuries when it became fashionable for wealthy Londoners to build country houses here. Claremont House and its landscaped gardens (now Claremont Landscape Garden, managed by the National Trust) exemplify this period of growth. The arrival of the railway in the 1830s further cemented Esher’s status as an upmarket commuter town.

Today, Esher maintains its exclusive feel with a High Street that combines traditional architecture with high-end shops. The town’s population tends to be affluent, with many professionals, executives, and families attracted by the quality of life, excellent schools, and proximity to London.

Esher is known for its impressive range of property styles across various periods. The area features handsome Georgian homes, Victorian terraces, and substantial Edwardian properties, particularly around the town centre.

The most exclusive parts of Esher showcase impressive detached houses set within large gardens, many dating from the early 20th century but extensively modernised inside. There are also pockets of stylish 1930s properties with characteristic bay windows and generous proportions.

More recent developments tend to follow a neo-Georgian or contemporary style that aims to complement the existing architectural landscape.

Some of Esher’s most desirable properties can be found on Claremont Drive, Milbourne Lane, and Copsem Lane, where substantial detached houses sit back from the road within mature gardens. The Crown Estate and areas around Esher Common also feature impressive family homes with considerable space both inside and out. Clare Hill and Ember Lane house some particularly grand properties with far-reaching views.

Explore the typical property types in Esher and the key streets which exist there.

Developments: Esher has seen careful development in recent years, with an emphasis on quality over quantity due to planning constraints. Recent projects include the conversion of some older buildings into luxury apartments close to the High Street, offering modern living with period charm.

Esher boasts several notable attractions that showcase its heritage and natural beauty. Explore all it has to offer below:

• Claremont Landscape Garden: This stunning National Trust property features an 18th-century landscaped garden created by some of England’s greatest gardeners. The garden surrounds a small lake and offers beautiful walks throughout the year. (Portsmouth Road, Esher, KT10 9JG)
• Sandown Park Racecourse: One of the UK’s premier racecourses hosting racing throughout the year as well as conferences, exhibitions and other events. The venue offers an exciting day out right on the doorstep. (Portsmouth Road, Esher, KT10 9AJ)
• Esher Common: Covering over 360 acres, this woodland and heathland area provides excellent walking trails and a peaceful escape from town life, with a wealth of wildlife to spot throughout the seasons.
• The Bear: A historic coaching inn dating back to the 16th century, this traditional pub retains much of its period character while serving excellent food. It has welcomed notable patrons throughout its history. (High Street, Esher, KT10 9QJ)

Esher sits in an advantageous position for those who need to travel both locally and into London, with several transport options available:

• Car & Road: Esher enjoys excellent road connections, positioned close to the A3 which provides direct routes to London and Portsmouth. The M25 orbital motorway is also just a short drive away, connecting to the wider motorway network. Central London can be reached in approximately 45 minutes depending on traffic, while Guildford is about 25 minutes away.
• Bus: Local bus services operate throughout Esher and connect to neighbouring towns including Kingston upon Thames, Walton-on-Thames, and Cobham. The 515 and 458 routes are particularly useful for local travel.
• Train: Esher railway station offers regular South Western Railway services to London Waterloo, with journey times of approximately 25-30 minutes, making it popular with professionals. Trains also run to Guildford and Woking. The station has adequate parking facilities for those driving to catch their train.

Esher’s local economy reflects its status as an upmarket commuter town, with employment opportunities spanning several sectors.

The High Street supports numerous independent boutiques, estate agencies, and professional service firms that employ local staff, while Sandown Park Racecourse stands as one of the largest single employers in the immediate area.

Many Esher workers commute to larger business centres, with London being the primary destination due to the fast rail link. Nearby Kingston upon Thames, with its substantial retail sector and Kingston University, offers significant employment opportunities within easy reach. The Thames Valley tech corridor and business parks around Weybridge and Leatherhead also provide jobs in technology, pharmaceuticals, and financial services.