Ashtead Station is a commuter hub like its neighbours Epsom and Leatherhead, but quieter. Avenue after avenue of 20s semis give way to more modest stockbroker piles, and there’s a decent Indian takeaway and gastropub.
The station is served by Southern (brand name for Govia Thameslink Railway Network) and South Western trains. Live train information is available via National Rail Enquiries real-time Journey Planner.
What to see and do in Ashtead
The vibrant town centre of Ashtead offers a host of boutiques and arts and crafts to complement its busy market town heritage. Explore the streets and you’ll find a selection of pubs and restaurants to enjoy.
A bus station serves the area, connecting travellers to nearby destinations including Epsom, Guildford and Leatherhead. The M25 motorway is also within easy reach, providing UK-wide access.
The village’s residents are passionate about supporting local businesses and community life. You can find many highly-regarded shops such as bakers, butchers and organic greengrocers. There’s a dentist and library, too.
Walking through the village’s picturesque parks and woodlands is a real pleasure. Ashtead Common is a National Nature Reserve home to over 2,300 ancient oak pollards. They’re cared for using the age-old technique of pollarding and provide a habitat for rare birds and fungi.
Among the many things to do in the local vicinity is exploring the beautiful surroundings of the Mole Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This stunning countryside is dotted with pretty villages, where you’ll find local markets and pubs. The renowned Epsom Downs Racecourse is also within easy reach.
When it comes to train travel, Southern operate services from Ashtead Station to Dorking and beyond. You can check live departures and arrivals on the live board above to make sure you don’t miss your service.
Things to do near Ashtead Station
Ashtead is an upcoming tourist destination that’s worth checking out. With unique things to do and see, you’ll find plenty of reasons to visit this hidden gem in Surrey England.
The village is a popular choice for commuters, with the train station offering services to London Waterloo and beyond. There are also a number of buses and taxi services available to get you to and from the city.
One of the most iconic sights in Ashtead is the Ashtead Common, a National Nature Reserve and home to over 2,300 ancient oak trees. The custodians of the woodland work hard to maintain the character of these venerable giants, regularly pollarding them to encourage new growth and allowing some to decline naturally.
Another must-see is Hampton Court Palace, a Tudor royal palace in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. The palace was constructed for Cardinal Thomas Wolsey in 1515 and later enlarged by King Henry VIII. It’s now one of only two surviving palaces owned by the Crown.
Heading south from the village, you’ll reach the town of Leatherhead – the ‘gateway’ to the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The town itself has a traditional high street and is famous for its heritage breed of five-clawed chickens, a statue of which proudly adorns one of its major roundabouts!
Restaurants near Ashtead Station
Ashtead is renowned for its gastronomic offerings and has a rich food culture that encompasses cozy cafes, artisanal coffee spots, and dessert joints. The town also hosts culinary festivals and events that celebrate local chefs. These culinary artisans share their stories and culinary inspirations, giving visitors a glimpse into their journey to become Ashtead’s food icons.
There are 36 scheduled rail journeys on a typical weekday between Ashtead and Malden Manor. The fastest journey takes just 29 mins. South Western Railway and Southern are the main train operating companies on this route. First class tickets on these trains offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities than standard class.
The population of Ashtead consists mostly of middle-class owners occupying large family homes with some smaller apartments. The area has a number of schools including state and private. The town’s proximity to London, and the M25, has resulted in many commuters choosing Ashtead as a place to live and work.
The town’s train station is due to undergo a multi-million pound refurbishment as part of the government’s National Station Improvement Programme (NSIP). This will see the station building replaced with a new entrance, automatic ticket gates, waiting room and car park that will accommodate 60 additional spaces. There are also plans for a new cafe and restaurant, which will be open to the public.
Things to do near Epsom Station
Epsom is best known for the Derby, but there’s plenty more to discover. The town is situated between the bustle of central London and the bucolic Surrey countryside. The area is home to top-quality theater at Epsom Playhouse, fascinating museums such as Bourne Hall Museum and an acclaimed art scene.
There are also lots of things to do in Epsom for families. Kids can learn about the local wildlife at Horton Country Park Local Nature Reserve, take a trip to the children’s farm or visit Nonsuch Mansion to explore this 1731 stately home.
The town is also well-served by schools. Its infant and primary schools are rated “good” or better by the education watchdog, while two private preps – Kingswood House School (girls, ages two to seven) and Downsend School (boys, ages three to 13) – provide a choice of options.
For shopping, head to the Ashley Centre – a covered mall with all the High Street names plus lots of independent shops. Or take the train to the town centre, a few minutes away and soak up the atmosphere of the wide High Street with its distinctly continental feel and street cafes. The station offers fast trains to Victoria and London Waterloo – journeys take 40 and 35 minutes respectively. Getting around is easy, with the M25 motorway close by.
