Little UK town named most 'boring' place to live but not everyone agrees
One South West London town has been named one of the UK's most boring places to live - but its great transport and activity offerings have some begging to differ
London, known for its vibrant life offers endless activities day and night. Yet, surprisingly, a South West London town has been dubbed one of the UK's " most boring" places to live.
Surbiton received the title from The Telegraph, alongside five other UK towns. The criteria used by the publication is not entirely clear, but it appears to have selected locations that people "collectively consider boring", despite each having its own unique charm. Surbiton indeed has much to offer those seeking a tranquil experience on the outskirts of London, reports MyLondon.
Nestled on the edge of London and Surrey, the leafy and peaceful Surbiton was once described by The Telegraph as "neither London nor Surrey, neither ultra-middle class nor confusedly 'gritty.' It also notes that the area is close to Home Park and Hampton Court, as well as Surrey Hills and Kingston.
The paper notes that the area's top tourist attraction is its station which is perhaps why it made it to the list in the first place. However, what some might not know is that the hit sitcom series The Good Life was set in Surbiton, although it was actually filmed in the Middlesex borough of Northwood.
So while it might have just won the title of being one of the UK's most boring towns, Surbiton has actually got plenty to offer for those looking for a more relaxed outskirts of London experience.
Transport and housing
The town is well-connected to the city, despite falling within Travelcard Zone 6. Journeys between Surbiton station and London Waterloo takes on average 27 minutes - making it a great option for commuters.
Its train station has a beautiful art-deco front which has featured in its fair share of TV shows and films including Harry Potter and Poirot. The area has also been home to celebrities like Spiderman star Tom Holland, and authors Enid Blyton and Jacqueline Wilson.
Things to do
Surbiton may have been branded one of the UK's "most boring" places, but it surprisingly offers a fair bit more activity-wise. It's nestled near several verdant areas, including Claremont Gardens and Berrylands Nature Reserve.
One TripAdvisor review that is a self-proclaimed "regular" at Claremont Gardens confirmed the area is beautiful year-round. "The colours of the trees and landscape are beautiful in different ways through the year. It's definitely worth a visit for a little exploration and calm wander around the grounds."
The reviewer also suggested heading out onto the water for some added fun. "I've enjoyed hiring a boat to head out on the pond too, with the quizzical looks of interest from the ducks and birds floating around. The obligatory visit to a National Trust cafe for a scone also helps!"
Come the weekend, the locals revel in the "great atmosphere and true sense of community" found at the bustling Surbiton Farmers Market. Another TripAdvisor reviewer emphasises the friendliness of locals: "This farmers' market is great to visit with such a variety of food and drinks plus plants and flowers. All the stall holders are so friendly and cheerful, whatever the weather."
Connoisseurs of fine architecture can also admire the historic clock tower, a John Johnson creation commemorating the coronation of HRH King Edward VII in 1902.
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