The fertile meadowland around Windlesham probably drew the first settlers here, and the greenbelt surrounds and picturesque mix of village buildings still make it an attractive prospect for those searching out a slice of rural charm. On the north-western fringes of Surrey, Windlesham's small idyll character is propped up by comparisons with the more uniform developments of nearby
Bagshot. The smaller village, with its drama societies, fetes and fairs, contrives to keep itself a world away from the pernicious urbanisation that all but did for its neighbour.
But developers have for some time been eyeing up the local woodland for housing projects. In the past, Bagshot Heath was a favoured spot for duellists and highwaymen, and in recent years Windlesham has seen its fair share of pistols-at-dawn showdowns between residents and the developers they fear are stealing both greenbelt riches and the heart of the community.
It is likely to be some time, however, before the Surrey-in-Bloom awards stop finding their way into town. Contentious plans for a large estate on Heath Park Wood have been shelved and small-scale in-filling is the sum of current development. With all quiet on the building front, prices remain high, and Windlesham rivals Chobham as the premier village hideaway in this neck of the Surrey woods.
Attractive Victorian and Edwardian cottage style properties make up much of the village centre. There are a smattering of 18th Century properties and the odd thatched roof around, but most older single story period buildings have been adapted and extended over the years. Newly built properties fall largely into two estates. To the north, the neo-Georgian designs of local boy Charles Church shape much of the Snow's Ride estate, whilst on the south west of town, Windmill Field is a mini suburb of 2 and 3 bed terraces and larger detached houses. The leafier parts of Pound Lane and Updown Hill house substantial detached family properties, and point the way towards the most exclusive part of the village. With a million-pound entrance fee, Westwood Road is one of those places pop stars and lottery winners like to call home.
Shops in the high street can be counted off on one hand and there are a similar number of restaurants and take-aways. For wider spending options, most locals head to Bracknell or Camberley. The nearest supermarket is at Sunningdale. Extensive retail facilities, however, do not top the wish lists of most residents, many of whom spend their working week in the city. The village community and acres of heath and woodland are the draw here. Despite residential incursions there's plenty of greenbelt to amuse yourself in. Windsor Forest stretches out to the west, whilst heading in the opposite direction takes you onto Chobham Common. There's a privately managed arboretum with pleasant walks near the Half Moon pub, which along with The Bee and The Brickmaker's Arms, make the village something of a real-ale haven. Sports fanatics can exercise their passions at various energy levels, with a prestigious golf club (and pub golf society at The Bee) and well supported running club based in the village. Nearby Bracknell has more extensive facilities, including a dry ski slope, as well as the Arts Centre at South Hill Park. If you've got a hat and fancy a flutter, Ascot is just up the road.
The village schools, including the award winning Windlesham Infant School, are well regarded and over subscribed. A good selection of state and private school options can be found in the surrounding area.
The village is well connected for transport routes by car, with the A30 and M3 (at junction 3) providing easy access to Heathrow and London. Public transport is less comprehensive, with a Beeline bus service shuttling sporadically between the local towns. Although there's no station in the village, commuters can get good train connections to Waterloo from Sunninghill Station just north of Windlesham.
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