Looking for a fresh start outside London? Woking, a commuter town just a brisk 27-minute train ride from Waterloo, might just be your perfect escape. It’s not just another stop on the map—it’s been recognised as one of the safest places to live in the UK.
A few years back, “Woking was named the safest place to live in the UK”, according to research by security licensing firm Get Licensed. The town boasted a crime rate of just 64 incidents per 1,000 residents at the time. That figure notably excluded fraud.
Yes, the data is from 2023. Things may have shifted since then, but the numbers still paint a solid picture. “It’s likely to have changed, but is still a good indicator of what a strong option Woking is if you want to leave London.”
The study, based on crime statistics from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) in England and Wales, covered the year ending in September 2022. Crimes analysed included public order offences, violence against the person, criminal damage, and arson.
Interestingly, Woking didn’t have the lowest number of crimes overall. But when you account for its population—103,900, as recorded in the 2021 Census—the town’s crime rate stands out. Safety here isn’t about having fewer incidents, it’s about a lower likelihood of being affected.
But that’s not the only accolade under Woking’s belt. Property guru Phil Spencer named it one of the best commuter towns around London, ranking it sixth. Only Maidenhead, Stevenage, St Albans, Reading, and Borehamwood edged ahead.
And getting to the capital? Simple. You can be in London in under half an hour by train or make the journey by car in around 37 minutes via the A3. That’s why Woking has long been a favourite among commuters.
Of course, a safe, well-connected commuter town like Woking doesn’t come cheap. “Property website Rightmove reveals that a house in Woking will cost you £547K.”
It’s a steep price, and some might find that Woking’s increasingly modern skyline—with its towering apartment blocks—doesn’t offer the calm retreat they’re searching for. “If you’re seeking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle, Woking’s town centre, with its growing number of high-rise towers, might not feel too dissimilar from Central London.” The town has even flirted with the idea of city status more than once.
Still, Woking’s charm goes beyond its commuter links. This place is rich in history, stretching back to prehistoric times. It grew from a small medieval farming village to an industrial hub during the 19th-century railway boom. The town became known for its brick and tile craftsmanship, with local materials used in many buildings still standing today.
Literature lovers will appreciate Woking’s claim to fame as the home of H.G. Wells, who penned The War of the Worlds right here. And the iconic Martian landing? It’s set in Horsell Common, one of Woking’s most treasured green spaces. Perfect for nature walks, it’s steeped in literary legend.
When it comes to shopping, Woking delivers. The Peacocks Shopping Centre is a bustling hotspot, packed with more than 100 shops, cafes, a cinema, and even a bowling alley. Fancy something a little different? The local markets and quirky independent shops offer plenty of surprises.
The town centre has also been getting a serious facelift. “A recent regeneration project in the town centre has led to the creation of the new Victoria Square, boasting new shops, buildings and a sparkling public space.”
Woking ticks a lot of boxes. Quick London links, a reputation for safety, a slice of history, and modern amenities all rolled into one commuter town. It might not be the cheapest option, but for many, it’s worth every penny.
