Why I Embraced Life in the UK's Second Most Tedious Place at 25

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Discovering the Charm of Surbiton: A Life Beyond the Hustle

When I pulled up to the kerb of my new abode in the languorous town of Surbiton, a smile broke across my face. Welcome to boring-town, I thought, having read the month before that the London burb had been dubbed the second most tedious town in the UK. But that didn’t make me regret the eye-watering £3,900 upfront payment for my spacious two-bed flat. Actually, it only made me more excited.

Granted, one Mumsnetter branded Surbiton a ‘fate worse than death’ but I was ready to embrace the South West London ‘yummy mummy’ lifestyle – minus the infant and responsibilities. For the past three years, I’d been trapped in a small flat on a Shepherd’s Bush crossroad, falling asleep to the constant drill of roadworks, wail of sirens, and listening to brawls and tuneless karaoke emanating from the lowbrow pub across the road.

I couldn’t make it down the main road without being ogled or verbally abused by men – there was no sense of safety. Here, in my new Surbiton flat, just minutes from the station (which the Telegraph claims is the town’s biggest tourist attraction – and it’s not wrong), I felt completely safe.

Despite being just off a main road, I never hear cars pass by, and in a whole month, I’ve not heard a single siren. Instead, it’s the coo of birds and the buzzing of bumblebees as I sit on my balcony that I’ve filled with lavender. Now look, if you’re a party animal who likes to stay out drinking until 3 am and needs to be doing something every waking minute – it’s not the town for you.

The Benefits of Living in Surbiton

But I’ll tell you what’s so good about my wonderfully boring home. Firstly, I got a bigger flat for less money and I have finally been able to afford a balcony for the first time in my adult life. My commute is more expensive but takes exactly the same amount of time as when I lived just five kilometres from my Kensington office.

Yes, the council tax is extortionate, but I’m still not paying more than I was in West London. If my London borough is good enough for Stormzy and Tom Holland, then it’s good enough for me. I’ve replaced my walks in Hyde Park for wanders in Bushy Park and Hampton Court Park, which is home to the spectacular Hampton Court Palace, frequented by Henry VIII.

Activities to Enjoy Nearby

You can even hop into Kingston and get a GoBoat down the river, enjoying a tipple down the Thames and admiring the stunning riverside homes and the palace itself. It’s just a 25-minute walk (or a five-minute bus) into Kingston, and it’s where I love to spend my free time.

Now, I’d been spoiled with Westfield in West London, but the Bentall Centre and the surrounding shops satisfy even the biggest shopaholics. You’ve got:

• Zara
• H&M
• Fenwick’s
• Nike
• The White Company
• All Saints
• Hollister
• John Lewis

Not to mention an Oliver Bonas and Danish chain Søstrene Grene for some cute homewares, while a riverside TK Maxx is perfect for your furnishing needs. If you wander past the gorgeous Tudor-esque buildings that house the likes of L’Occitane, Astrid & Miyu, and Urban Outfitters, you’ll stumble across a true gem.

Exploring Kingston Historic Market

The Kingston Historic Market is home to 28 permanent stalls and is open seven days a week. It dates back to the early 1200s and it has a brilliant homey yet buzzing atmosphere. You’ll find:

• Florists
• Fishmongers
• An artisan bakery
• Street food vendors

It’s a true find for someone like me who loves to cook from scratch and host. There’s also a little Surbiton Farmers Market too on Maple Road, every third Saturday, which raises money for charity. If you want brunch made for you, venture to Icon, the pink punchy breakfast place opposite the station.

Dining Options Around Surbiton

I use Kingston for restaurant visits – there’s a gorgeous Cote with riverside views, a Bills, and for fast food, there’s Joe and the Juice, Tortilla, and Leon too. You might say, “but that’s Kingston, not Surbiton,” and you’d be right – but that’s the joy of living in boring-town; it’s so well connected.

Commute and Connectivity

I can be in London Waterloo in 20 minutes, making it easy to get anywhere in London within the hour. Clapham Junction is even closer, plus I can get a direct train home to St Albans to my family, and it’s just an hour-and-a-half to Brighton where the rest of my loved ones are.

The way I see it, I exchanged rowdy streets, terrible bin collections, constant stress, and a small flat for open green spaces, history, shopping, spectacular views, and a sense of community. Honestly, I don’t see what’s so boring about that.

Finding Peace in Surbiton

I can host parties in a kitchen and living room that I can finally swing a cat in, have family to stay, and indulge in peaceful walks and picnics by the river. If you define boring as somewhere that lacks nightlife and drunks at bars – sure, it’s dull as anything.

But to me, I’ve found a peaceful place where life is slower, easier, and more fulfilling. Call me a grandma, but after a long day in the heart of London, there’s nothing I enjoy more than retreating to my safe haven in boring-town.

FAQs About Living in Surbiton

What are the main attractions in Surbiton?

Surbiton is known for its charming parks, historic buildings, and proximity to the Thames. Key attractions include Bushy Park, Hampton Court Palace, and various shopping areas like the Bentall Centre and Kingston Historic Market.

How is the commute from Surbiton to London?

The commute from Surbiton to London is quite efficient. You can reach London Waterloo in about 20 minutes, making it convenient for daily commuters.

What dining options are available in Surbiton?

While Surbiton may not have a bustling nightlife, it offers a range of dining options in nearby Kingston, including Cote, Bills, and various fast food outlets.

Is Surbiton a safe place to live?

Yes, many residents find Surbiton to be a safe and family-friendly area, with lower crime rates compared to more urban locations.

What are the benefits of living in Surbiton?

Residents enjoy spacious living, access to green parks, a sense of community, and a quieter lifestyle while still being well-connected to London.

In conclusion, Surbiton may be labeled as boring by some, but its charm lies in its peaceful environment, community spirit, and convenient access to both nature and the hustle and bustle of London. Have you ever considered a move to a quieter town away from the city’s chaos? #SurbitonLiving #PeacefulLifestyle #CommunityCharm

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