Why I love Reigate - Tim Wilson, Branch Manager at Jackson-Stops Reigate, and a Reigate boy, tell us about why he loves this Surrey town and the best places to visit.
 

Born and bred in Reigate, Tim has worked as an estate agent in Reigate, Dorking and surrounding areas for many years. He began his estate agency career in Redhill before moving to London.

He was a branch manager for Gascoigne-Pees and Hamptons International, both in Dorking, before joining Jackson-Stops Reigate, where he uses all of his skill and experience to support sellers and buyers in selling and securing their dream homes. He also completed a stint in the Sussex Police - nothing gets past Tim!

With decades of experience under his belt, Tim is a valuable member of our Reigate team and knows the local area very well. We asked him about his favourite places in and around Reigate...
 

I love to go for walks along Reigate Hill. It's a fantastic local place to spend a few hours and has the most stunning views. With miles of lovely walks at Reigate Hill and nearby Gatton Park, you can lose yourself in the beautlful Surrey countryside. The majority of the walk is on pretty level ground, but there's a steep climb up and down. Dogs are welcome, although they need to be kept on a lead as there's livestock dotted about.

Right: Reigate Hill, Reigate, Surrey, RH2
This property for sale is a most appealing former coach house that has been sympathetically restored over recent years to provide a stunning family home with all the modern day requirements, yet retaining a wealth of charm and character. It's located in a slightly elevated position in the lee of Reigate Hill. Guide price £1,125,000. View property. 

What landmark in Reigate do you most love?

The Priory Park, without a doubt! We're so lucky to have such a beautiful park on our doorstep and I never tire of talking a walk through it. It has a stunning lake that attracts so much bird life. It's perfect for all the family with tennis courts, a playground, a skatepark, picnic area, some lovely walks and a great cafe.

What’s it like living in Reigate?

With a backdrop of the North Downs, Reigate really is a beautiful market town, with a close-knit village feel. Spend any time here and you'll be struck by the perfect mix of independently-owned shops, bars and restaurants alongside the high street names you'd expect to see.

Left: Harewood Close, Reigate, Surrey, RH2
A stunning detached five bedroom family home situated in a highly desirable Reigate location.

Outside the delightful gardens are truly a feature of the house and enjoy a south westerly aspect with a most idyllic backdrop incorporating views across the private lake towards Reigate Hill. Fixed price £1,050,000. View property.

I'd say that Reigate is quite a classy town. On a summer's evening it's a bit like a mini Wimbledon!

We have excellent schools here, including my former senior school, Reigate Grammar School. We have a few celebrity residents too! 

What secret place do you like to go to?

I like to walk the back way (via countryside) to The Skimmington Castle - a proper country pub where lots of dog walkers go. It's a traditional pub and restaurant, overlooking Reigate Heath. Perfect for Sunday lunch or a pit stop after a walk.

What would you advise people to do when they visit your town?

I would definitely say visit Reigate Caves. The caves - old sand mines - extend across the town centre and there are regular tours that include the Barons' Caves in the grounds of Reigate Castle. Local legend says that the Barons drafted the Magna Carta in the caves before taking it to Runnymede!

Find out more about Reigate and all it has to offer - Visit Surrey. If you're thinking of making the move to Reigate, or if you're looking to sell your home here, you can contact our team in Reigate on 01737 222027 or by email at reigate@jackson-stops.co.uk.