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About Banstead – History and Culture
Banstead is a historic town in the borough of Reigate and Banstead, Surrey, within the Greater London Urban Area. Its name derives from the Old English 'bēan-stede' meaning 'place where beans grow', reflecting its agricultural origins. The earliest recorded mention is in the Domesday Book of 1086, where it is listed as 'Benestede'. Throughout the medieval period, Banstead was a small farming community centered around the village green and the Church of All Saints, which dates from the 12th century.
The town experienced significant growth during the 18th and 19th centuries. Its elevated position on the North Downs provided clean air, making it a popular health resort for Londoners seeking respite from pollution. The opening of Banstead railway station in 1847 connected the town to London, spurring suburban development. In 1864, the Banstead Lunatic Asylum (later The Royal Earlswood Hospital) was built, which became a major employer. During the 20th century, Banstead evolved into a commuter town, preserving its semi-rural character while absorbing modern housing developments.
Today, Banstead boasts a strong community spirit with a thriving high street, numerous parks, and active local societies. Its cultural identity blends historic charm with contemporary amenities. The town is known for its annual May Fayre, farmers' market, and emphasis on green living. Residents take pride in the area's natural beauty, including Banstead Woods and Banstead Downs, which provide recreational opportunities and habitats for wildlife.
- All Saints Church – Norman and medieval architecture.
- Banstead Downs – 130-acre SSSI grassland.
- Banstead Woods – ancient woodland with walking trails.
- The Tudor Bell – historic pub dating back to the 16th century.
- Banstead Village Green – central gathering spot.
- War Memorial Clock Tower – erected in 1922.
- Royal Earlswood Hospital site – now housing development with heritage plaques.
- Banstead Railway Station – Victorian brick building still in use.
Did You Know? – Facts about Banstead
Banstead may be a small town, but it packs a surprising number of distinctions. Nestled on the edge of the North Downs, it offers a unique blend of ancient woodlands and modern commuter convenience. The town's identity is deeply connected to its natural surroundings, which have been protected for centuries.
- Banstead Downs is one of the largest remaining areas of chalk grassland in southern England.
- The town has been twinned with the French commune of Hénin-Beaumont since 1992.
- Banstead Cricket Club is one of the oldest in Surrey, founded in 1847.
- The May Fayre has been running for over 50 years, raising funds for local charities.
- Banstead was once home to the 'Banstead Mob', a notorious 18th-century smuggling gang.
- The actor Dirk Bogarde lived in Banstead as a child.
- The town's postcode KT20 is shared with neighbouring settlements.
- Banstead has no railway station within its boundaries; the station is actually in nearby Tadworth.
- The London LOOP (London Outer Orbital Path) passes through Banstead Woods.
- Banstead was part of the ancient hundred of Wallington.
- The village green is a scheduled monument due to its medieval origins.
- Over 40% of Banstead is designated green space.
- The town has a microclimate that is often a few degrees warmer than surrounding areas due to its sheltered position.
Geography and Climate of Banstead
Banstead is located in the northern part of Surrey, approximately 12 miles (19 km) south of central London. It sits atop the North Downs at an elevation of around 130 metres (430 ft) above sea level, offering panoramic views towards the capital. The town is part of the Greater London Urban Area, making it a contiguous part of the London commuter belt. The landscape is characterised by chalk downland, ancient woodlands, and open farmland.
The climate is temperate oceanic (Köppen Cfb), typical of southeast England. Winters are cool with occasional frost, while summers are mild to warm. Banstead receives slightly less rainfall than the UK average due to its rainshadow position east of the North Downs. Snowfall is infrequent but can occur when cold easterly winds prevail. The highest recorded temperature is around 36°C, and the lowest is -12°C. The town's elevated location means it can be windier and cooler than London.
- Located in the borough of Reigate and Banstead, Surrey.
- Postcode districts: KT20 (Banstead) and SM7 (Banstead station area).
- Nearest major city: London (12 miles north).
- Nearby towns: Sutton, Epsom, Reigate, Redhill.
- Banstead Woods covers 114 hectares of ancient woodland.
- The North Downs Way passes to the south.
- Natural chalk streams include the Hogsmill River (source near Epsom).
- Average annual rainfall: about 640 mm.
- July average high: 22°C; January average low: 2°C.
Things to Do in Banstead
Banstead offers a variety of activities for residents and visitors alike. From exploring historic woodlands to enjoying a meal at a gastropub, the town combines rural tranquility with accessible urban amenities. The following sub-sections detail the best dining, events, culture, and outdoor pursuits.
Food & Dining
Banstead's dining scene is anchored by its traditional English pubs and a growing number of independent restaurants. The High Street hosts several eateries serving international cuisine, from Italian to Indian. Many pubs offer Sunday roasts and ales from local breweries. For fine dining, nearby towns like Reigate and Cheam provide additional options. Breakfast spots and cafés are popular among walkers and cyclists on weekends.
- The Tudor Bell – historic pub with classic British fare.
- The Red Lion – family-friendly pub with garden.
- The Winston Churchill – gastropub near Banstead station.
- Woodies Bar & Grill – modern grillhouse on the High Street.
- Banstead Tandoori – award-winning Indian restaurant.
- I Sapori – Italian restaurant known for fresh pasta.
- Costa Coffee – chain café on the High Street.
- Banstead Fish Bar – traditional fish and chips.
- Sushi Daily – fresh sushi counter at Waitrose.
- Tea and Tattle – independent tearoom.
Festivals & Events
The Banstead May Fayre is the highlight of the town's calendar, held on the first Sunday in May. It features a parade, stalls, music, and children's activities. Other annual events include the Banstead Farmers' Market (second Saturday of each month), the Banstead Christmas Market, and summer band concerts on the village green. The nearby Epsom Downs Racecourse hosts the Derby Festival in June, drawing large crowds.
- Banstead May Fayre (May) – community celebration with funfair.
- Banstead Farmers' Market (monthly) – local produce and crafts.
- Banstead Christmas Light Switch (November) – carols and festivities.
- Banstead Beer Festival (August) – ales and ciders at the cricket club.
- Remembrance Day Parade (November) – at the War Memorial.
- Epsom Derby (June) – thoroughbred horse racing nearby.
- Epsom Downs Fireworks (November) – spectacular display.
- Banstead Arts Festival (biennial) – exhibitions and workshops.
Cultural Attractions
While Banstead lacks large museums, it offers intimate cultural experiences. The historic All Saints Church holds concerts and art displays. Banstead Library hosts author talks and reading groups. For more extensive cultural outings, the town is near the Charles Dickens Museum in Portsmouth? Actually closer are the Natural History Museum and British Museum in London, reachable by train. Locally, the Bourne Hall Museum in Ewell covers Epsom and Ewell history.
- All Saints Church – concerts and guided tours.
- Banstead Community Centre – art classes and exhibitions.
- Banstead Library – public archive and events.
- The Slyfield Estate – historic farm buildings turned community spaces.
- Nearby: Bourne Hall Museum (Ewell) – local history.
- Nearby: The Canons (Morden) – historic house museum.
- Nearby: Whitehall (Cheam) – Tudor house museum.
Outdoor Activities
Banstead's green spaces are its crown jewels. The 130-acre Banstead Downs is ideal for walking, picnicking, and birdwatching. Banstead Woods offers mountain biking trails and orienteering courses. The London Outer Orbital Path (LOOP) traverses the woods. Sports facilities include Banstead Cricket Club, Banstead Tennis Club, and a leisure centre with swimming pool. Golf enthusiasts have several courses nearby, including Banstead Downs Golf Club.
- Banstead Downs – wildflower meadows and kestrel sightings.
- Banstead Woods – ancient woodland with marked trails.
- Banstead Cricket Club – cricket matches and clubhouse.
- Banstead Tennis Club – six outdoor courts.
- Banstead Leisure Centre – gym, pool, and fitness classes.
- Banstead Downs Golf Club – 18-hole course.
- Epsom Downs Racecourse – walks and cycling on race days.
- Nonsuch Park (Cheam) – expansive park with running routes.
- Hogsmill Trail – riverside walk from Ewell to Kingston.
- Cycling routes – National Cycle Network route 22 nearby.
Economy and Key Industries
Banstead's economy is primarily driven by the service sector, retail, and healthcare. Many residents commute to London for professional jobs in finance, law, and technology. Local employment is concentrated in education, health services, and small businesses. The Royal Earlswood Hospital site has been redeveloped into a business park, hosting offices and light industry. The town also supports a cluster of independent shops, hairdressers, and tradespeople.
The proximity to London means that Banstead benefits from a high level of economic activity. The average income in the area is above the national average, reflected in property prices. Tourism is a minor but growing sector, with visitors drawn to the downs and woods. Agriculture has largely disappeared, though some equestrian businesses remain. The local council promotes small business growth through enterprise schemes.
- Retail: Waitrose, Co-op, and independent shops on High Street.
- Healthcare: Banstead Medical Centre, St. Mary's Hospital (nearby).
- Education: several primary schools and one secondary school (Banstead Community School).
- Construction: several small builders and developers active in the area.
- Professional services: accountancy, legal, and estate agents.
- Hospitality: pubs, restaurants, and B&Bs.
- Equestrian: livery stables and riding schools.
- Nearby business parks: Quadrant Court, Orchard Business Centre.
- Commuter flow: over 60% of workers commute to London or other towns.
Where to Live in Banstead
Banstead offers a variety of residential areas, from the historic village core to modern estates. The centre (around the High Street and village green) is most sought-after for its character and convenience. Nork, a northern suburb, has large interwar and postwar houses. Tattenham Corner (part of Banstead) is a planned 1930s estate with open spaces. Burgh Heath, to the east, is more suburban with good transport links. The eastern part of Banstead towards the Downs features large detached homes with views.
Property prices in Banstead are high relative to the Surrey average, reflecting its desirable location and good schools. The majority of housing is owner-occupied, with a smaller rental market. Families are drawn to the area for its safety and access to green space. Commuters benefit from frequent train services from nearby stations (Banstead station in Tadworth, or Tattenham Corner station). Council tax bands range from band E to H for larger properties.
- Banstead Village – historic centre with period properties and listed buildings.
- Nork – popular residential area with a mix of detached and semi-detached homes.
- Tattenham Corner – 1930s estate with a golf course and station.
- Burgh Heath – suburban area with the Royal Marsden Hospital nearby.
- Woodmansterne – adjacent village with character cottages.
- Preston – small hamlet south of the downs.
- Kingswood – affluent area with woodland and large estates.
- Tadworth – village with Banstead railway station and high street.
Formalities and Visas in Banstead
As part of the United Kingdom, Banstead follows national immigration rules. Non-UK nationals must obtain relevant visas to live, work, or study. The town is in a residence area that may require additional checks for EU nationals post-Brexit. The nearest visa application centre is in Croydon, approximately 8 miles away. Citizens of EU/EEA/Switzerland who lived in the UK before 2021 may have applied for settled status.
For long-term stays, common visa categories include the Skilled Worker visa (for employment), the Student visa (for studies), and the Family visa (for joining relatives). Visitors may use the Standard Visitor visa for up to 6 months. All visa applications are processed by UK Visas and Immigration. Applicants must register with the local police if required. Biometric residence permits are collected upon arrival.
- Standard Visitor visa: £115 (6 months), valid for tourism/business.
- Skilled Worker visa: £719-£1,539 depending on occupation.
- Student visa: £475 for full-time courses.
- Family visa: £1,538 for partners and dependents.
- EU Settlement Scheme: closed for new applications (deadline June 2021).
- YMS visa (youth mobility): for 18-30 year olds from certain countries.
- Police registration: required for nationals of some countries.
- Nearest visa office: Croydon Premium Service Centre.
- National Insurance number required for work.
- Right to rent checks done by landlords.
- Council tax registration needed upon moving.
- Healthcare surcharge: £624 per year for most visa categories.
Working in Banstead
The job market in Banstead is linked to London, with many residents commuting to the capital. Local employment opportunities are available in retail, healthcare, education, and hospitality. The town has a small business district with offices, a leisure centre, and several medical centres. Key local employers include Banstead Community School, the Royal Marsden Hospital (in Sutton but nearby), and the Royal Automobile Club (nearby Woodcote Park).
Job seekers should utilise online portals like Indeed and LinkedIn, as well as local recruitment agencies in Sutton and Croydon. The average salary in the area is approximately £35,000-£45,000, but can be higher for commuters. Self-employment is common among tradespeople and professionals. The gig economy is limited but present. Part-time work is available in retail and hospitality. Note that many jobs require a DBS check for safeguarding.
- Key sectors: education, health, retail, construction, professional services.
- Major employers: NHS (Royal Marsden, St. Helier), Banstead Community School, Waitrose.
- Average commute time: 45-60 minutes to Central London.
- Working hours: typical 9-5, but flexible working is growing.
- Self-employment: common among builders, cleaners, consultants.
- Job centres: nearest in Sutton (6 miles) and Redhill (5 miles).
- Working from home: popular due to high-speed broadband (fibre available).
- Labor market: competitive for professional roles.
- Minimum wage: £10.42/hour (2023); living wage £11.95 (London).
- UK employment rights: 28 days paid leave, sick pay, maternity/paternity.
Studying in Banstead
Banstead offers excellent primary and secondary education. The main secondary school is Banstead Community School, catering for ages 11-18. There are several primary schools: Banstead Infant School, Banstead Juniors, and St. Anne's Catholic Primary. For further education, the nearest colleges are North East Surrey College of Technology (NESCOT) in Epsom and East Surrey College in Redhill. Universities in London are accessible by train; the University of Surrey in Guildford is a short drive.
International students typically study at London universities but may choose to live in Banstead for its quiet environment. Student accommodation options include private rentals and homestays. The area is popular with families relocating for school catchment. Tuition fees for UK universities are up to £9,250 per year for domestic students, with international fees higher (varies widely). The town has a public library with study spaces and internet.
- Banstead Community School – national average attainment with strong STEM.
- Banstead Infant and Junior Schools – rated 'Outstanding' by Ofsted (some).
- St. Anne's Catholic Primary – faith school with good results.
- NESCOT Epsom – offers A-Levels, BTECs, and vocational courses.
- East Surrey College – courses in construction, beauty, and business.
- University of Surrey – top 20 UK, strong engineering and health.
- Royal Holloway, University of London – in Egham, 20 miles away.
- London South Bank University – accessible by direct train from Banstead.
- Student transport – daily trains to London (Victoria or London Bridge).
- Private tutoring – available for tuition and exam preparation.
- School admissions – run by Surrey County Council; catchment areas apply.
Finance and Banks in Banstead
Banking in Banstead is provided by major high street banks through branches in the town centre. Barclays, Lloyds, and Nationwide have branches on the High Street. For daily banking, most residents use online banking and mobile apps. Cash machines are widely available at the Co-op and Waitrose. Foreign exchange services are limited; better options exist in nearby towns. The Post Office also offers basic banking services.
Opening a bank account requires proof of identity and address; for newcomers, a letter from an employer or school is helpful. International transfers can be done via banks or specialised services like Wise or Revolut. Credit cards are widely accepted. Building societies (e.g., Nationwide) offer mortgages and savings accounts. Tax advice can be obtained from local accountants. HMRC online services handle tax returns.
- Barclays (High Street) – current accounts, mortgages, business banking.
- Lloyds Bank (High Street) – personal and student banking.
- Nationwide (High Street) – building society with fair savings rates.
- Santander (nearest in Sutton) – popular for 123 accounts.
- HSBC (nearest in Croydon) – international banking.
- Post Office (Banstead) – cash withdrawals, bill payments, travel money.
- ATM locations: outside Co-op, Waitrose, and at railway station.
- Currency exchange: Thomas Exchange Global in Sutton.
- Online banks: Monzo, Starling, Revolut widely used.
- Tax: Personal Allowance £12,570; income tax rates 20%/40%/45%.
- National Insurance: 12% on earnings between £12,570 and £50,268.
- Capital gains tax: 10% or 20% (depending on income).
Health Care in Banstead
Healthcare in Banstead is provided by the National Health Service (NHS). The main GP practice is Banstead Medical Centre on the High Street. Additional surgeries exist in Tadworth and Nork. For hospital care, residents use Epsom General Hospital (7 miles) or St. Helier Hospital (4 miles). The Royal Marsden Hospital in Sutton is a world-renowned cancer centre. Dental practices include Banstead Dental Care and several in neighbouring areas.
All residents must register with a GP to access NHS services. The NHS provides free primary care, but hospital treatment may require waits. Dental care is partially subsidised but not free for adults. Prescription charges are £9.65 per item (2023). Private healthcare is available at Bupa or Spire St. Anthony's Hospital (Sutton). Ambulance services are provided by South East Coast Ambulance Service. Pharmacies include Boots on the High Street.
- Banstead Medical Centre – NHS GP with online booking.
- Tadworth Medical Centre – additional GP, near Banstead station.
- Nork Surgery – small practice in Nork area.
- Epsom General Hospital – A&E and specialist services (7 miles).
- St. Helier Hospital – major hospital with A&E (4 miles).
- Royal Marsden Hospital (Sutton) – private and NHS cancer care.
- Banstead Dental Care – NHS and private dentist.
- Boots Pharmacy (High Street) – prescription dispensing and health advice.
- LloydsPharmacy inside Co-op – later hours.
- NHS 111 – urgent medical helpline.
- Health visitors and midwives – accessed via GP.
- Mental health support – Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Trust.
Accommodation in Banstead
Finding a home in Banstead is competitive due to high demand. The housing stock consists of period houses, interwar semis, and modern flats. Rental properties are limited, and estate agents often manage waitlists. The average house price in Banstead is around £600,000-£700,000 (2023), with flats starting at £250,000. The rental market: a 3-bed house costs £1,500-£2,000 per month; a 2-bed flat £1,000-£1,400.
Most properties are sold through local agents such as Cubitt & West, Your Move, and Shiner. For newcomers, it's advisable to rent initially. Furnished and unfurnished options exist. Short-term lets may be available via Airbnb or holiday lets. The council tax band influences monthly costs; typical bands are E-H. Applications for rentals require references, a deposit (usually 5 weeks' rent), and a holding deposit (1 week).
- Types: detached houses, semi-detached, terraced, flats, bungalows.
- Average house price (2023): £680,000 (semi-detached £550k, detached £1M+).
- Average rent 2-bed: £1,200-£1,500 pcm.
- Estate agents: Cubitt & West, Your Move, Hamptons, Shiner.
- Rental procedures: credit check, references, tenancy deposit protection.
- Short-term stays: The Slaughtered Lamb (pub with rooms), Airbnb.
- New developments: recent builds at Tattenham Corner and Preston estate.
- Student housing: mainly private rentals in shared houses.
Planning Your Move to Banstead
Relocating to Banstead requires preparation. Begin by researching schools if you have children. Visit the town to explore neighbourhoods. Arrange viewings with agents. For international moves, ensure visa is in place. Notify utilities and update address well in advance. The town is served by removal companies; get quotes from at least three. Self-storage facilities are available in Sutton and Redhill.
Register with a GP as soon as you arrive. Open a bank account using proof of address. Transfer your driving licence to a UK one if from outside the EU. Set up council tax, water, electricity, and broadband. Local broadband providers include BT, Virgin Media, and Sky. Internet speeds are generally good. The town has no major parking restrictions except in controlled zones.
- Research schools: see Surrey County Council's website.
- Estate agents: Cubitt & West, Your Move, Shiner.
- Removal firms: Pickfords, Bishops Move, or local (e.g., Banstead Removals).
- Utility companies: British Gas, E.ON, Thames Water (water provider).
- Broadband: BT, Virgin, Sky, TalkTalk (fibre available in most areas).
- Council tax: band D approx. £2,100 per year (2023/24).
- Register to vote: via Reigate and Banstead Borough Council.
- Driving licence: DVLA website for applications.
- Pet registration: vets nearby; microchipping mandatory for dogs.
- Waste collection: weekly food waste, fortnightly recycling and general waste.
Leisure in Banstead
Evenings in Banstead are quiet but sociable. The town has several pubs, a wine bar, and a clubhouse at the cricket ground. Cinema enthusiasts travel to Sutton or Reigate. The Banstead Leisure Centre offers swimming, gym, and classes. For theatre, the Epsom Playhouse is a fifteen-minute drive. Shopping includes the High Street's independent boutiques and a Waitrose supermarket.
The nightlife is limited compared to London, but the nearby towns of Reigate and Redhill have more bars and clubs. Banstead's parks are popular for evening strolls in summer. The community centre hosts quiz nights and live music occasionally. For a night out, many residents head to central London via the 35-minute train ride.
- The Winchester Arms – pub with real ale and live sports.
- The Slaughtered Lamb – historic pub with food and rooms.
- Banstead Leisure Centre – gym, pool, fitness classes.
- Banstead Cricket Club – bar and social events.
- Epsom Playhouse – theatre and cinema (5 miles).
- Vue Cinema (Sutton) – multiplex (6 miles).
- Norbury Park – nearby country park for hiking.
- Golf: Banstead Downs, Tattenham Corner, Walton Heath.
Transportation Options in Banstead
Banstead is well-connected by road and rail. The M25 motorway (junction 8) is a few minutes away, providing access to Gatwick and Heathrow airports. The A217 links to London and the South Coast. Public transport is dominated by trains from Banstead station (located in Tadworth, about 1.5 miles from the town centre) on the Tattenham Corner line to London Bridge. Buses serve the town, including routes to Sutton, Epsom, and Redhill.
The nearest airports are Gatwick (25 minutes by train from Redhill) and Heathrow (40 minutes by car or via South West Trains from Wimbledon). Cycling is possible but hilly. Optionally, walking is pleasant for local errands. Ride-sharing via Uber is available in the area. Taxis are registered with companies like Banstead Cars. There are several electric vehicle charging points in public car parks.
- Banstead railway station (Tadworth) – Southern services to London Bridge (35 min).
- Tattenham Corner station – also on the same line.
- Buses: 166 (to Sutton), 420 (to Redhill), E16 (to Epsom).
- Roads: A217 (dual carriageway to London), B2220 (through Banstead).
- Motorway: M25 J8 (3 miles).
- Airports: Gatwick (15 miles), Heathrow (20 miles), City (20 miles).
- Cycling: National Cycle Route 21 (London to Brighton) passes nearby.
- Taxi: Banstead Cars (01737 352222).
- Uber: available within Sutton zone.
- Parking: pay and display in village, free in some residential areas.
Everyday Life in Banstead
Everyday life in Banstead is characterised by its village atmosphere combined with modern services. The High Street is the social and commercial hub, with a mix of independent shops, supermarkets, and cafes. Residents enjoy a high level of safety; crime rates are low. The town has a strong sense of community with many clubs and societies. Schools, parks, and healthcare are within walking distance for most.
Public services include a library, a police station (with limited opening hours), and a post office. Waste collection is regular, with fortnightly recycling. The local council (Reigate and Banstead Borough Council) manages services. Neighbourhood watch is active. For needs beyond daily, Sutton town centre is a short bus ride away. The pace of life is relaxed, ideal for families and retirees alike.
- Shopping: Waitrose, Co-op, Boots, Post Office, independent butchers.
- Post Office: on High Street, open Monday-Saturday.
- Police: Banstead Police Station (limited hours), emergency dial 999.
- Library: Banstead Library on High Street, free internet and events.
- Places of worship: All Saints Church (Church of England), St. Anne's (Catholic), Methodist Church.
- Community centre: Banstead Community Centre on Bolters Lane.
- Safety: low crime; typical issues are vehicle theft and anti-social behaviour.
- Social groups: Banstead WI, Royal British Legion, walking groups.
- Dog walking: common on the Downs and in woods.
Cost of Living in Banstead
Banstead is an expensive area to live, reflecting its desirable location. Housing is the largest expense. Utilities, food, and transport are in line with UK averages but slightly higher than the national average due to London weighting. Council tax is high because of property values. Dining out and leisure costs are moderate. A single person can expect to spend £2,000-£3,000 per month including rent. For a family of four, monthly costs could be £4,000-£6,000.
Comparison: Banstead is about 20% more expensive than the UK average but 10% cheaper than central London. Commuting costs add up; a season ticket to London is about £2,000 per year. Supermarket prices are similar to other Waitrose areas. Energy bills are average due to good insulation in newer homes. Renters should budget a deposit of 5-6 weeks' rent plus agency fees.
- Rent (2-bed flat): £1,200-£1,500 pcm.
- Rent (3-bed house): £1,600-£2,200 pcm.
- Utilities (electric, gas, water, broadband): £200-£300 pcm.
- Council tax (band D): £175 pcm.
- Food: £250-£400 pcm for single person.
- Transport: travelcard £150 pcm (zones 1-6) or pay-as-you-go.
- Dining out: pub meal £15-£20; three-course dinner £40-£60.
- Gym membership: Banstead Leisure Centre £30 pcm.
- Childcare: full-time nursery £1,200-£1,500 pcm.
- Private school: £15,000-£20,000 per year nearby.
Places to Visit in Banstead
Banstead itself offers several attractions for visitors. The ancient Banstead Woods provide
Geography & Location
Fascinating Local Facts
- It lies within the Greater London Urban Area, just south of London.
- The name 'Banstead' is derived from Old English meaning 'bean place'.
- Banstead Downs is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) covering 130 acres.
- The town has a history dating back to the Domesday Book (1086).
- Banstead was a popular health resort in the 18th century due to its clean air.
- The Banstead Lunatic Asylum (now The Royal Earlswood Hospital) opened in 1864.
- Banstead railway station opened in 1847 on the Croydon, Epsom and Leatherhead Railway.
- The town is home to Banstead Cricket Club, founded in 1847.
- Banstead Woods is a 500-year-old ancient woodland and nature reserve.
- The town has a population of approximately 8,000 (2011 census).
- Banstead is known for its village-green atmosphere and historic pubs.
- The Banstead May Fayre is a traditional annual event since the 1970s.
- Nearby attractions include the London Eye and Wimbledon, accessible by train.
Banstead Quick Facts
Essential information and unique highlights about the city at a glance.