10 Reasons To Love...Oxted

Head to the far east of the county and you’ll find a charming town with a big personality set at the foot of the North Downs

- Pete Gardner

1 THE BARN THEATRE

Billing itself as ‘Surrey’s oldest community theatre’ this lively centre of the arts has two local groups – Oxted Operatic Society and The Oxted Players, so there should be something here for everyone’s taste! Built in 1924 there have been more than a few famous thespians appearing – Dame Flora Robson, Christopher Fry and Roy Castle numbering amongst them. Seating 244 and run solely by a volunteer staff,the theatre has some splendid shows coming. This month sees The Ghost Train, a classic mystery thriller, from October 18 to 21 or for something a little different you can catch the Croydon Male Voice Choir on October 28.

2 ST MARY’S CHURCH

A beautiful Grade I Listed building that is nearly 1,000 years old, St. Mary’s church is the hub of the community in Oxted offering many events and group meetings. The building is worth a visitfor the architecture alone but the essence of the church is the family. St. Mary’s Monkeys and the Junior Church cater for all ages while the under fives can enjoy the “Messy Church” get-together where, in partnership with St. Peter’s, Tandridge, the kids are let loose in a ‘fun and creative’ way…just make sure there’s plenty of soap and water afterwards.

3 TITSEY PLACE AND GARDENS