· GB

Woking

Woking, Surrey, United Kingdom

Discover Woking: Where History Meets Modernity in Surrey Woking, a vibrant town nestled in the heart of Surrey, offers a compelling blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. Just a stone's throw from London, it'…

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Woking.

Top Hotels in Woking

Top Flights to Woking

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Woking.

Tours

Explore Woking's Historic Sites

Discover the rich history of Woking through its fascinating historic sites and landmarks.

Shopping

Shopping in Woking Town Centre

Explore a variety of shops and boutiques offering the latest fashion, technology, and more.

Outdoor

Hiking in the Surrey Hills

Enjoy breathtaking views and trails in the beautiful Surrey Hills, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Woking.

Currency
£ | GBP | Pound Sterling
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Woking, Surrey, United Kingdom is about 100,000.
Languages
English, English
Average weather
Woking
Jan
cold
7°1°
Feb
cold
8°1°
Mar
cloud
11°3°
Apr
rain
14°5°
May
cloud
17°8°
Jun
sun
20°11°
Jul
sun
23°13°
Aug
sun
22°13°
Sep
cloud
19°11°
Oct
rain
15°8°
Nov
cloud
10°4°
Dec
cold
8°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Woking.

What people love

Woking, located in Surrey, United Kingdom, offers several pros for travelers:

  1. Convenient Location: Woking is situated in Surrey, which is known for its picturesque countryside and proximity to London. This makes it an ideal base for exploring both the city and the surrounding countryside.

  2. Transport Links: Woking has excellent transport links, with direct trains to London taking just around 30 minutes. This makes it easy to access all the attractions and amenities of the capital city.

  3. Historic Sites: Woking has a rich history, with notable historic sites such as The Lightbox art gallery and museum, and the ruins of Woking Palace. History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring these sites.

  4. Shopping and Dining: The town has a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes offering a range of cuisines and shopping options. The Peacocks Shopping Centre is a popular destination for shoppers.

  5. Parks and Green Spaces: Woking boasts several parks and green spaces, such as Woking Park and Horsell Common, where visitors can enjoy nature walks, picnics, and outdoor activities.

  6. Entertainment: The town has a vibrant arts and entertainment scene, with theaters, cinemas, and cultural events taking place throughout the year. The New Victoria Theatre is a popular venue for live performances.

Overall, Woking offers a blend of history, culture, and convenience, making it a great destination for travelers looking to explore both urban and rural attractions in the UK.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Woking, located in Surrey, United Kingdom, may include:

  1. Limited tourist attractions: Woking is primarily known for being a commuter town rather than a tourist destination. Visitors may find limited attractions and activities compared to larger cities in the UK.

  2. Lack of historic sites: While Woking has some interesting history, including being the setting for H.G. Wells' "The War of the Worlds," it may lack the historic charm of other towns in the UK.

  3. Limited nightlife and entertainment options: Woking may not offer as diverse a nightlife scene or entertainment options as larger cities like London or nearby towns.

  4. Transportation challenges: While Woking has good train connections to London and other parts of the UK, navigating the town itself may require a car or reliance on public transportation, which could be a challenge for some travelers.

  5. Limited dining and shopping options: While Woking has a range of restaurants and shops, it may not offer the same variety and selection as larger cities.

It's important to note that these cons are subjective and may vary depending on individual preferences and interests. It's always a good idea to research and plan your trip accordingly to ensure it aligns with your travel expectations.

Woking is a town in the county of Surrey, England, with a rich history that spans centuries. Here's an overview of its historical development, significant events, notable figures, and important landmarks:

Early History

  • Roman Era: Archaeological evidence suggests that the area around Woking was inhabited during Roman times. The remains of a Roman road and some artifacts have been discovered, indicating the presence of a settlement.

Medieval Period

  • Woking Palace: During the medieval period, Woking was home to a royal residence known as Woking Palace. Originally built in the 13th century, it became significant during the Tudor period. King Henry VII and his son, Henry VIII, were known to have visited the palace.

Modern Era

  • 19th Century Development: The arrival of the railway in the 1830s significantly boosted Woking's growth. The London and South Western Railway connected Woking to London, making it a desirable location for commuters and leading to suburban expansion.
  • Brookwood Cemetery: Opened in 1854, Brookwood Cemetery is one of the largest in the UK and was established as the London Necropolis. It was designed to accommodate the growing burial needs of London and is notable for its size and the diversity of its graves.

20th Century to Present

  • The War of the Worlds: Woking is famously associated with H.G. Wells, who lived in the town in the 1890s. It was here that he wrote "The War of the Worlds," which features the Martian invasion beginning in Woking.
  • WWII: During World War II, Woking played a role in the war effort, with various local industries contributing to the production of military equipment.

Notable Figures

  • H.G. Wells: The renowned science fiction writer lived in Woking and used it as the setting for part of "The War of the Worlds."
  • Paul Weller: The musician and songwriter, known for his work with The Jam and The Style Council, was born in Woking.

Landmarks

  • The Lightbox: A modern cultural venue opened in 2007, The Lightbox is an art gallery and museum that hosts exhibitions and events, contributing to Woking's cultural scene.
  • Shah Jahan Mosque: Built in 1889, it is the first purpose-built mosque in the UK and continues to serve the local Muslim community.
  • Victoria Arch: This is a railway bridge in Woking and a key part of the town's infrastructure, near the main railway station.

Woking's history is marked by its transformation from a rural village to a bustling commuter town, influenced by its strategic location and transportation links. Its historical sites and cultural contributions continue to shape its identity today.