PROFILE: Farnham Town

Farnham is a bustling lively town of 38,000 people at the western end of Surrey, bordering on Hampshire.

In this ancient town, remains of Roman, Saxon and Stone Age dwellings have been discovered within its boundaries. In more recent centuries, it became notable as a market town of particular architectural charm with its Georgian buildings crowned by a 12th century castle overlooking the cluster of shops and house in the river valley below.

Farnham is a town that successfully combines the old with the new. the buildings, even though they have Georgian fronts, are often found to conceal structures of Tudor and even earlier times. However, whilst retaining their original features they provide accommodation for shops, offices and residences.

It is a proud town, and has reason to be. In south east England where development pressures predominate and where shopping complexes have altered out of all recognition so many towns, Farnham has, so far, jealously preserved the gem that is its centre. The original core of the town has gradually grown through the centuries. Walking through its streets you can sense its history and when you meet castle street (described as one off the finest streets in England) with its sweep up to the castle, this is indeed, a distinctive and attractive town.

There is a large park where once the bishop's deer used to roam, which contains a golf course and sports pitches. Three miles to the south is Frensham Common and pond, sailing and fishing with a sandy foreshore and heather clad hinterland. The whole area has been designated one of outstanding beauty. It links up with the Devils Punchbowl, one of the most spectacular views in the county.

Farnham is well situated as a centre from which to visit many places including Windsor, Winchester and Portsmouth. The sea is under an hours drive.