Why Community Matters When Moving to Surrey, Hampshire & West Sussex
The true magic of a move lies beyond the four walls of a house.
When searching for a new home, especially if you’re relocating from London or overseas, it’s natural to focus on the property: square footage, kitchen finishes, garden orientation. But at Property Potential, we know the real value isn’t just in the bricks and mortar.
It’s in the people, the pace of life, and the opportunity to find a sense of belonging.
Where You Live Should Feel Like Home, Inside and Out
The villages we work in aren’t just picture-postcard pretty. They’re vibrant, welcoming communities where friendships are made, neighbours know your name, and traditions are proudly upheld. Each one has its rhythm, character, and charm and a key part of our bespoke search service is matching you to the right one.
Some are lively and social, full of annual events and family-friendly festivities. Others are quieter, perfect for those seeking a slower pace and strong local roots. Either way, there’s a thriving sense of community that makes settling in easy, something our clients consistently tell us is the most unexpected (and appreciated) part of their move.
The Rhythm of Village Life
From vintage tractors to lantern-lit firework nights, the social calendar in Surrey, Hampshire, and West Sussex is a joy to discover. These events aren’t just entertaining—they’re a window into the local spirit and a perfect way to feel at home, fast.
☀️ Summer brings classic fêtes on village greens, think homemade cakes, dog shows, tug-of-war, and Pimms in the sunshine.
🍁 Autumn sees bonfire nights with mulled wine, lantern parades, and spectacular firework displays drawing locals from miles around.
🎄 Winter twinkles with Christmas markets and candlelit carol services, New Year’s Day walks.
🌸 Spring opens gardens and local festivals that celebrate everything from art to asparagus.
It’s not about having to join in but knowing you can. You’re never far from something warm, welcoming, and wonderfully local.
A Few Local Favourites
We’ve handpicked a few standout events across the counties to give you a flavour of what the community looks like in this part of the world:
🌿 Surrey Village Highlights
Shere Open Gardens (June)
One of Surrey’s prettiest villages opens its garden gates for a day of inspiration and cream teas on the green. A charming way to meet neighbours and gather ideas for your own outdoor space.
Farnham Food & Drink Festival (September)
Farnham’s historic town centre turns gourmet for the day, with artisan stalls, chef demos and produce from surrounding villages—a real treat for former Londoners missing Borough Market vibes.
Chiddingfold Bonfire & Fireworks (November)
This traditional event draws a big local crowd with its huge bonfire, mulled wine, and village spirit. It’s a proper, time-honoured celebration with a big heart.
🌼 Hampshire Village Highlights
Alresford Watercress Festival (May)
Quirky but brilliant. Celebrating Hampshire’s signature crop with local food, cooking demos, and family fun, a great way to plug into the area’s food culture.
Selborne Village Fête & Open Gardens (June)
Full of bunting, bell tents and bake-off charm. A true slice of English village life with cake stalls, Morris dancers and warm welcomes.
Wickham Festival (August)
An award-winning boutique music festival in a village meadow, perfect for families and music lovers alike, with a laid-back countryside feel.
🌳 West Sussex Village Highlights
Petworth Park Antiques & Fine Art Fair (May)
Hosted in Capability Brown designed parkland, this elegant event combines top-tier antiques with a dash of champagne and Georgian grandeur.
Lodsworth Village Fête (July)
Small but bursting with character. Expect coconut shies, crafts, beer tents, and the kind of charm that makes you never want to leave.
Arundel Festival of the Arts (August)
For those with a cultural eye, Arundel delivers gallery trails, pop-up theatre, opera in the castle, and an inspiring mix of community and creativity.
A Place to Join In
It’s not just about attending village events, it’s about becoming part of them.
Community life in Surrey, Hampshire, and West Sussex isn’t something you have to watch from the sidelines. It’s hands-on, inclusive, and full of opportunities to contribute, connect, and feel like you truly belong from day one.
Here’s how newcomers quickly feel part of the fabric:
Community-Owned Pubs & Shops
In villages like Hambledon, Lodsworth, Shackleford, and The Sands, local shops and pubs are often community-run, many with help from volunteers. Whether you’re pouring a pint, popping in for milk, or hosting quiz night, it’s a lovely way to meet neighbours and be on first-name terms with everyone behind the bar.
Churches, Choirs & Traditions
Church life still plays a big role in many villages, from candlelit carol services to harvest suppers and choral concerts. Whether you’re a regular attendee or just popping in for festive moments, these traditions create powerful shared experiences.
Sporting Clubs for All Ages
From tennis and cricket to bowls and cycling, football or rugby local sports clubs welcome everyone. Great for staying active, but even better for forming friendships and becoming part of a team.
Village Halls: The Heart of the Community
More than just party venues for children’s birthdays, village halls are real hubs, hosting everything from Pilates and yoga to history talks, gardening societies, safari suppers and local meetings. There’s always something going on.
School Events That Welcome Everyone
Even if you don’t have children at the local school, you’re still welcome at their summer fêtes, fireworks nights and nativity plays. These events bring the whole community together and help you feel like part of it.
At Property Potential, we don’t just find you a house, we find you your people. Your place. Your rhythm. Living in the heart of our search area means that we can to show you what makes life here so special and find the village lifestyle for you.