Virginia Water Property Guide: Buying vs Renting in Surrey’s Premier Address
Virginia Water is renowned for its Crown Estate grounds and close proximity to Wentworth Golf Club. These attractions make this pretty village one of Surrey’s most sought-after residential areas. City executives, foreign purchasers, and families are lured to this wealthy community because of its first-rate schools and green areas. Virginia Water has clear benefits that make up for its high cost. Whether you’re looking for a luxury property to buy in Virginia Water or the Virginia Water rental properties, there will be suitable home for you.
Why Virginia Water? The Unique Appeal
Unlike neighbouring Ascot or Sunningdale, Virginia Water maintains a quieter prestige shaped by:
- The 4,500-acre Crown Estate – Providing immediate access to ornamental lakes and woodland walks
- The Wentworth Estate effect – Golfing prestige enhancing local property values
- Cross-border appeal – 15 minutes from both Berkshire and London (via A30/M25)
The local estate agents report 60% of buyers cite “green space access” as their primary motivator, with 30% prioritising school catchment areas.
Property Market Overview: 2025 Trends
Purchasing Landscape
Property Type | Average Price | Key Developments |
2-bed flats | £550,000-£750,000 | New conversions near station |
4-bed detached | £1.8m-£3.5m | 1920s villas vs modern mansions |
6-bed estates | £5m+ | Gated properties on Christchurch Road |
Rental Market Dynamics
According to the Barton Wyatt letting agents, the market could change depending on the specific requirements. However, here are some rough guidelines:
- Corporate lets: 4-bed homes (£4,500-£7,000pcm) for relocated executives
- Family rentals: 3-bed semis (£2,800-£3,500pcm) near TASIS school
- Short-term demand: Furnished properties achieve 10-15% premiums
Key Residential Areas
Some areas near Virginia Water tend to be more sought after compared to the other areas. Here are some of the highlights:
- Wentworth Estate
- Gated security with 24/7 patrols
- Architectural styles from Tudor revival to contemporary glass
- Strict landscaping covenants maintaining aesthetic cohesion
- Christchurch Road
- Grand Edwardian homes on half-acre plots
- Walking distance to Virginia Water station
- Popular with banking sector families
- Callow Hill
- 1930s arts-and-crafts houses
- More affordable entry point (from £1.2m)
- Strong local community with annual garden trail
Essential Local Amenities
Virginia Water offers a wide range of essential local amenities to cater for different needs.
Education (Ofsted Rated)
- TASIS England – American international school (IB programme)
- St John’s Beaumont – Leading Catholic prep school
- ACS International – STEM-focused Sixth Form
Lifestyle Attractions
- Virginia Water Lake – The Crown Estate’s centrepiece with 7-mile perimeter walk
- The Wentworth Club – Host of the BMW PGA Championship
- The Beehive – Gastropub with Michelin-trained chef
Transport Links
- Rail: 42 minutes to Waterloo (South Western Railway)
- Road: M25 (J13) 8 minutes via A30
- Air: Farnborough Airport 25 minutes for private aviation
Buying Considerations
- Architectural Restrictions
- Wentworth Estate enforces strict exterior modification rules
- Many roads maintain original 1920s streetlight designs
- Service Charges
- Gated communities: £4,000-£12,000 annually
- Includes grounds maintenance and security
- Hidden Costs
- Larger properties often require staff accommodation
- Heating bills for period homes can exceed £15,000/year
Renting Realities
Corporate Tenancies
- Typically 2-3 year terms with school fee allowances
- Landlords expect full professional cleaning between tenants
Local Rental Hotspots
- Station Apartments: Young professionals (1-beds from £1,800pcm)
- Woodland Drive: Families near TASIS (4-beds £4,200pcm)
- Copper Horse Lane: Downsizers (2-bed cottages £2,500pcm)
Future Market Outlook
- Upcoming Developments
- Refurbishment of Virginia Water station (2025-26)
- New wellness spa at Wentworth Club
- Price Projections
- Knight Frank forecasts 3.5% annual growth to 2027
- Rental demand expected to outstrip supply by 12%
Who Chooses Virginia Water?
Especially the more affluent people tend to relocate to Virginia Water. However, the residents’ demographics do vary.
- International Buyers (40%): Particularly from Hong Kong and Dubai
- City Professionals (35%): Canary Wharf bankers valuing the direct line
- Retired Couples (25%): Downsizing from larger Surrey estates