Living in, or moving, to Burpham and Jacobs Well

Set just outside Guildford, Burpham and Jacobs Well are two neighbouring communities that offer a rare balance of village life, green space and excellent connectivity.

Popular with families, professionals and downsizers alike, both areas combine a strong community feel with everyday convenience — making them enduringly attractive places to live.

This guide explores what life is really like in Burpham and Jacobs Well, whether you’re thinking of moving here or simply want to understand your local area better.

Explore life in Burpham and Jacobs Well.

Area overview

Burpham and Jacobs Well each have their own distinct character, but share many qualities that residents value.

Burpham offers a suburban village feel with strong links to Guildford, well-regarded schools and access to the River Wey and surrounding countryside. Jacobs Well, slightly more rural in character, is known for its tight-knit community, green spaces and quieter pace of life.

Both areas suit:

• Families looking for space and schools
• Commuters wanting access to London and the South East
• Anyone valuing community, walkability and nearby countryside

Property and housing

Housing in both areas is varied, with a mix of:

• Post-war family homes
• Modern developments
• Bungalows and smaller properties
• Character homes near village centres

Burpham tends to attract strong family demand, while Jacobs Well appeals to those seeking a slightly more rural feel without sacrificing access to Guildford.

Schools and education

Families are drawn to Burpham and Jacobs Well for the range of education options nearby.

The area is served by local primary schools, with a choice of secondary schools in Guildford and the surrounding villages. Nurseries, pre-schools and independent options are also available within a short drive.

Parents are encouraged to visit schools directly and consider catchment areas as these can change.

Transport and connectivity

Both areas are well placed for travel:

• Easy road access to Guildford town centre
• Regular bus services into Guildford and surrounding areas
• Rail connections to London available from Guildford station
• Walking and cycling routes linking villages and green spaces

This balance of connectivity and calm is one of the area’s biggest draws.

Shops, food and amenities

Residents benefit from:

• Local convenience shops
• Nearby supermarkets
• Independent cafés and takeaways
• Pubs and restaurants in surrounding villages and Guildford

For larger shopping needs, Guildford town centre offers a full retail and leisure experience just minutes away.

Parks, leisure and community life

Outdoor space is a major attraction.

• Walks along the River Wey
• Local parks and play areas
• Sports clubs and leisure facilities nearby
• Community events, groups and societies

Both Burpham and Jacobs Well have active local communities, with events and groups that help newcomers settle quickly.

Is this a good place to live?

For many, the answer is yes.

Strengths include:

• Strong community identity
• Access to nature and green space
• Proximity to Guildford
• Good transport links

Things to consider:

• Popularity means demand for housing can be high
• Commuting at peak times can be busy
• Catchment areas matter for schools

Overall, these are areas that reward those seeking long-term quality of life rather than short-term trends.