Surveyor in Redhill

What’s it like living in Redhill?

Geography and Housing

Redhill is located in Surrey, just south of London and offers a mix of housing types including Victorian and Edwardian properties, post-war family homes and more recent developments. Areas such as Earlswood and Merstham are known for older properties, while the town centre has seen modern apartment blocks built as part of local redevelopment schemes. This variety means buyers can choose from period homes with traditional layouts or low-maintenance new-builds depending on preference and budget.

Architectural Traits and Building Materials

Properties in Redhill are typically constructed with red or London stock brick. Victorian and Edwardian homes often include timber features, bay windows and pitched slate roofs. These materials tend to weather well, although some maintenance is usually required on older structures. Modern properties feature cavity wall construction and are generally more energy efficient. When buying older homes, it’s worth checking the condition of roofing, pointing and any timber elements during a building survey.

Unique Attributes of Redhill

Redhill grew as a key transport and industrial hub in the 19th century and was known for its Fuller’s Earth mining. The town is now part of the London commuter belt and benefits from strong rail links. Redhill is surrounded by green space, including access to the North Downs and nearby countryside, which offers walking and cycling routes. Local shopping is centred around the Belfry Shopping Centre, with additional services located near the station.

Safety and Crime Rates

Crime levels in Redhill are typical for a town of its size. Central areas and public spaces see more activity, while residential neighbourhoods such as Meadvale and St John’s tend to be quieter. As with any area, it’s advisable to review local police data when buying in a specific street or postcode.

Transportation and Connectivity

Redhill station provides direct services to London Bridge, London Victoria, Gatwick Airport and the south coast. Journey times to central London are usually around 30 minutes. The town is also close to the M25 and M23, offering good road access to surrounding areas. Bus services operate across Redhill and into nearby towns such as Reigate and Horley.

Education and Family Life

There are several primary and secondary schools in Redhill, including St Bede’s School and Reigate School, both of which are well-regarded. East Surrey College also offers further education. Local parks, playgrounds and community groups support family life in the area.

Flooding Risk and Radon Levels

Parts of Holmethorpe and the area near Redhill Brook are considered to have some flood risk. A flood risk assessment should be included as part of conveyancing and environmental searches. Radon levels in Redhill are not known to be high, but a radon test can be included as part of a property survey, particularly in older buildings.

What Locals Say

Views on Redhill are mixed, but many residents value the convenience of the location and the balance between town facilities and access to nature. One resident commented on the “good transport options and proximity to open spaces.” Another noted that Redhill has “everything needed day to day” but mentioned that the town centre could benefit from continued improvements. Areas such as Earlswood and St John’s are frequently mentioned as among the most settled and family-friendly parts of the town.

Where is the best place to live in Redhill?

• Earlswood – Located south of the town centre, Earlswood features a large number of Victorian and early 20th-century homes, including terraced and semi-detached properties. The area has good access to schools, local shops and green space at Earlswood Common. It’s popular with families and commuters, thanks to its own railway station offering services to London and Gatwick.
• Merstham – To the north of Redhill, Merstham combines older village properties with more recent housing estates. It has its own train station with direct links to London, making it suitable for commuters. There’s a strong sense of local community and the area includes a mix of independent shops, parks and access to the countryside. Properties range from Victorian terraces to modern townhouses.
• Holmethorpe – This area includes the modern Watercolour development as well as older housing. It’s close to the Holmethorpe Industrial Estate, which offers local employment. With access to the Moors Nature Reserve and newer housing options, Holmethorpe appeals to buyers looking for more recent builds and proximity to open space.
• St John’s – A residential area west of the town centre, St John’s offers a mix of housing, including semi-detached homes and newer infill developments. The area is served by local shops and community facilities and is often chosen by families and long-term residents seeking quieter roads within reach of the town.
• Watercolour – A purpose-built development on the eastern edge of Redhill, Watercolour offers modern flats, terraced houses and townhouses. Designed with landscaped areas and water features, it’s close to the nature reserve and has good access to the A25 and nearby amenities. It suits buyers looking for a newer, low-maintenance home with a more contemporary layout.