Pictures of England

Search:

Historic Towns & Picturesque Villages

A picture of Belton House

Belton

in the county of Lincolnshire

A view of the old Gate House at the old deer park between Revesby and Horncastle, Lincolnshire

Revesby

in the county of Lincolnshire

Pictures of Reigate

a Historic Market Town in the county of Surrey

About Reigate

This is a bustling part of the Surrey landscape, it is easily reached via the M25 from London and is right on the North Downs Way.

The town is particularly noted for its fine castle constructed by William de Warenne. The castle, standing in the midst of beautiful grounds was captured by Simon de Montfort in 1264 and was subjected to siege during the English Civil War. The large Gatehouse guarding the bridge to the bailey is a folly built around the middle of the 19th century. This is a lovely place to see, the surrounding parkland is a joy with lovely views in all directions.

Historically, the name of the town is thought to derive from de Warenne's time and may come from Roe Deer Gate, as initially the town spread out from the entrance to William de Warenne's deer park, the landscape of which now forms Priory Park and Reigate Park. The caves beneath the castle are reputed to have been used by the rebellious barons prior to meeting at Runnymede for the signing of the Magna Carta. Although not a great deal is left of the castle, this and the caves and park remain open for the enjoyment of the public.

The 13th century Augustinian Reigate Priory lasted as a monastery until the Dissolution and was later granted by Henry VIII to William Howard, Ist Baron Howard of Effingham for use as a residence. In later years the priory became the home of the Earl of Nottingham, who as Lord High Admiral commanded the force who defeated the Spanish Armada. Today, this gracious building is used as a school.

Ringed by the dancing River Mole, Reigate has some very pleasant residential areas, it is therefore unsurprising to find a few well known faces around. It is the home of the BBC's Royal Correspondent Nick Owen, and of ITV's News Presenter Nicholas Owen. Dame Margot Fonteyn was born in the town as was Caroline Quentin and DJ Fatboy Slim.

Visitors will find plenty to see and do, there is a lively shopping centre with several individual shops, one, "The Penny Black" is the noted haunt of stamp collectors. Spacious streets hold several styles of architecture including beautiful churches and the lovely old town hall. You will also find a wide selection of pubs, quaint inns, restaurants of different cuisines, cafe's and tea rooms.

Reigate is conveniently placed for easy reach of London with its historic buildings, chic shops and nightlife, or for reaching the attractive seaside towns of the Sussex coast, which include Brighton, Hove and Worthing.

Recommended towns & villages near Reigate

Dorking

Dorking (68 Pictures) a Historic Market Town in the county of Surrey

(5.5 miles, 8.9 km, direction W of Reigate)

It is here that romantically Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton said their good byes before Nelson departed for the Battle of Trafalgar in the year 1805...

Epsom Racecourse, Surrey

Epsom (32 Pictures) a Historic Market Town in the county of Surrey

(7.3 miles, 11.7 km, direction NW of Reigate)

Epsom, is known world-wide for what is perhaps the most famous horse race of all time - The Derby...

Titsey Place

Oxted (14 Pictures) in the county of Surrey

(8.9 miles, 14.3 km, direction E of Reigate)

A walk around the village reveals a riot of attractive 17th and 18th century cottages all standing on a rise surrounded by pretty flower-filled gardens...

Cobham Mill, Surrey

Cobham (40 Pictures) in the county of Surrey

(10.9 miles, 17.5 km, direction NW of Reigate)

Cobham Mill rests on a picturesque stretch of the river surrounded by dipping weeping willows and graceful swans...

At Sundown on The Thames

East Molesey (84 Pictures) in the county of Surrey

(13.0 miles, 20.8 km, direction NW of Reigate)

This picturesque pleasant place is fortunate to lie between the waters of the historic River Thames and the River Mole. It is perhaps best known for Hampton Court Palace, the building started by Cardinal Wolsey in 1514...

All towns & villages in Surrey
Complete A to Z of towns & villages in England

Nearby attractions..

Colley Hill, Reigate, Surrey.

Reigate & Colley Hill (8 Pictures)

(1.1 miles, 1.8 km)

This area is one of Surrey's countryside gems. It mostly comprises of mature grassland and woodland where visitors may wander.....

It's a 'Topsy Turvey' world

Box Hill Country Park (22 Pictures)

(4.8 miles, 7.7 km, direction W)

Box Hill lies in an area of exceptional beauty, it covers beautiful woodland and an outstanding area of chalk downland. It.....

Grape picking in Denbies Vineyard near Dorking in Surrey

Denbies Wine Estate (10 Pictures)

(5.6 miles, 9.0 km, direction W)

England's largest vineyard. Enjoy a hearty lunch with excellent atmosphere and spectacular views. "Indoor Wine Experience" tours.....

Mickleham Priory, dates back to 10th century

Mickleham Priory (1 Pictures)

(5.7 miles, 9.2 km, direction NW)

..

Polesden Lacy June 2011

Polesden Lacey (127 Pictures)

(7.5 miles, 12.0 km, direction W)

Regency country house with renowned Edwardian interiors and gardens, set in beautiful downland countryside...

THE TOWER

Leith Hill (23 Pictures)

(8.9 miles, 14.3 km, direction SW)

Woodland, parkland, farmland and open heath with Leith Hill Tower commanding extensive views...

Tilgate Forest, Crawley

Tilgate Forest Country Park (14 Pictures)

(9.7 miles, 15.5 km, direction S)

..


All attractions in Reigate
All attractions in Surrey
Complete A to Z of attractions in England