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Robert Leech Estate Agents
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What’s to love about Oxted?
There’s so much to love about Oxted! This pretty, historic town famed for its large Arts & Crafts houses, timber framed stucco buildings and bustling high street, is situated at the foot of the North Downs in the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Beauty (AONB).
Known as a wealthy commuter or “stockbroker belt” town, it was listed in the top twenty richest towns in Britain by the Daily Telegraph in 2011, but has been a favourite of city workers since the railway arrived in 1884 and linked the growing settlement to London and the South Coast. Oxted offers great transport links to the M25, by rail to London Bridge (33 minute direct train) and London Victoria (39 minutes), by Thameslink to St Pancras or Ashford for the Eurostar and direct train services to London Luton and easy access by car to both Gatwick (42 minutes) and Heathrow airports.
Historically, Oxted has always been a convenient stop-off between London and the South Coast, being the site of Roman Roads and ancient routes. Consequently, it also has a good number of lovely old pubs dotted through the old town and nearby settlements of Tandridge, Hurst Green, Limpsfield and Limpsfield Chart.
Mentioned in the Doomsday Book, the ancient Oxted settlement of “Oakstead” (place where oak trees grow) has been around since well before the Middle Ages, with remnants of a Roman Villa at Titsey Place to the east of the town. It is surrounded by beautiful countryside dotted with historic manor houses, farms and many large mansions that have been schools and hospitals or convalescent homes in their past, but have now been converted into fabulous apartments.
Oxted town centre straddles two sides of the railway line – Station Road East and West. It features lovely stucco wood framed buildings and is full of great shops, restaurants and bars, including Cucina Italian, Cattle & Cocktail, Toast Cafe, The Deli and The Ginistry Bar. There’s also a beautifully renovated art deco cinema with cocktail bar and a very popular theatre.
Berkeley Inspiration, Oxted, The Ginstry
There are all the shops and services you need with plenty of excellent hair and beauty salons, clothes boutiques, homes & interiors and several high street banks. For food shopping, there’s also a huge Morrisons and smaller Sainsbury’s, Waitrose and Co-op.
If you want to go further afield, then just take a 15-20 minute drive to the lovely shopping towns of Reigate and Sevenoaks as well as being only 35 minutes to Bluewater.
For those of the sporty persuasion, then there are many leisure facilities to keep you in shape, including the Tandridge Leisure Centre with its pool, sauna, gym and fitness classes, football, cricket and hockey clubs. You’ll also find the Limpsfield Club (tennis/squash) and Tandridge and Limpsfield Chart Golf Clubs as well as Oxted’s beautiful Master Park which is home to football, cricket and a small tennis club. Other local amenities include a livery yard and riding stables for equestrians and the local leisure centre with its pool, sauna, steam rooms and gym.
Berkeley Inspiration, Oxted, The Cricket Grounds
It’s also the home of the annual Oxted Beer Festival, a very popular event held every July that allows the locals to sample all the craft beers and ciders brewed in the area and attracts very well-known bands for its live music offering.
Much of the land that surrounds Oxted is National Trust or farmland, and sitting within a designated Green Belt area. It’s a beautiful place to live, with incredible views from many of its higher points, plenty of opportunity for outdoor recreation – walks, riding, cycling and running routes, with lots of very active clubs for both adults and children including the Oxted & Limpsfield Cricket Club that has children’s cricket every Friday evening, Holland Sports and Raw Skills football club.
If you’ve got children or grandchildren, there are some great schools, both state and private together with several outstanding child care and pre-schools.
There’s also lots of clubs and parks to keep the kids entertained, and in the neighbouring area of Limpsfield Chart, you’ll discover a wonderful area – the National Trust’s Homes for Woodland Creatures – created and maintained by volunteers who have made the most amazing circuit of beautifully crafted wooden animal houses, such as Hedgehog Hall and Badgers Run. It’s a superb place for all the family to enjoy.
Berkeley Inspiration, Oxted, The High Street
Constantly changing and developing, while retaining its special character, the town is now home to some beautiful apartments and developments, including Courtyard Gardens in the centre of the town.
Courtyard Gardens offers contemporary living in the historic town, enquire through our website or visit us at Robert Leech office to find out more.
Content source: https://www.robertleech.com/whats-to-love-about-oxted/
#Estate Agents In Oxted#House Sale Oxted#Oxted Homes For Sale#Oxted Property Listings#Property Letting Agents In Oxted#Property Letting Agents Near Me
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4 Reasons to Move in 2024 from Your Local Expert in Reigate, Oxted & Lingfield
Is now a good time to sell my home in Oxted? Are the homes for sale in Reigate selling like hotcakes? These are questions that are often asked. If you’re contemplating a move, our local expertise in Reigate, Oxted, and Lingfield positions us to provide valuable insights. Here are four compelling reasons why 2024 may be a good time to sell your home.
1. Market Dynamics:
The property market seems to be stabilising after the post-pandemic turmoil. In its latest set of forecasts published in early February 2024, the Bank of England expects inflation to continue to drop to 2.0% on average in Q2 2024. As the UK economy starts to heal, consumer confidence is expected to follow suit. To make an informed decision about the timing of your move, it’s crucial to work with a local agent who has their finger on the pulse of housing trends, interest rates, and local market conditions.
Are you on the lookout for homes for sale in Reigate? Our expert team can guide you through the market dynamics and help you find the perfect property.
2. Financial Considerations:
Moving home involves substantial financial implications, from deposits and mortgage rates to the cost of relocation itself. Before making any decisions, closely examine your budget and assess your financial readiness. Consider consulting a financial adviser to ensure that moving aligns with your long-term financial goals.
If you’re asking, “Is now the best time to sell my home in Oxted?” Our team can provide comprehensive guidance, and for mortgage advice, Katie Parsonage from Kingsgate Partners is our independent mortgage advisor with access to exclusive mortgages from over 90 lenders.
3. Work-Life Balance:
Recent events have reshaped our perspectives on work and lifestyle. With remote work more prevalent than ever, you have increased flexibility in choosing your location. If your work situation has changed, consider whether a change of scenery would enhance your work-life balance and overall well-being. A new home and a fresh start could contribute to productivity and happiness while working from home.
4. Community and Amenities:
Home is more than just the property; it’s about the community and amenities that come with it. Even if you’re not moving far, communities can vary significantly. Consider long-term planning factors like schools, healthcare facilities, and leisure spaces. Moving to a harmonious and thriving community can profoundly impact your overall quality of life.
Thinking about selling your home in Oxted? Looking for the best agent to sell your home? Our team has the local expertise to guide you through the process seamlessly.
Searching for house selling agents near you? Look no further! Our expert team is well-versed in the local market of Reigate, Oxted, and Lingfield. Contact us for personalised and informed assistance tailored to your needs. In 2024, make your move with confidence and the support of a trusted local partner.
Content source: https://www.robertleech.com/4-reasons-to-move-in-2024-from-your-local-expert-in-reigate-oxted-lingfield/
#Best Agent to Sell My Home in Oxted#Homes For Sale Reigate#House Selling Agents Near Me#Sell My Home in Oxted
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An amazing house!! Robert Leech Estate Agents
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🌿 At the end of a cul-de-sac, in an elevated position and backing onto 🌳 woodland, is this substantial five-bedroom home, with a double 🚗 🚗 garage and additional studio above - offering close to 4500sq ft of living space and no onward ⛓chain!
#Property Letting Agents Near Me#Robert Leech Estate Agents#Independent Letting Agents Near Me#Youtube
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Things to do with the family in Oxted
Oxted, with its traditional high street and country charm, is a wonderful place for families to live. Whether you fancy a quick dose of exercise, a full day out or a memorable meal, Oxted has a multitude of options to keep everyone happy. Located close to the M25, on a train line to London and nestled at the foot of the Surrey North Downs, there’s plenty of family fun on offer regardless of the weather.
Get back to nature
A fun experience filled with memories doesn’t cost the earth in Oxted. There are many options for free outdoor ventures where wellies rather than cash may be required. Long and short public footpath walks scatter the area surrounded by picturesque countryside and friendly wildlife.
Peter Rabbit Woods on Limpsfield Common, is a fabulous place for families to walk. Parking is available on Ridlands Grove, and there are a variety of paths leading into a wood full of dens. The area boasts charming dedications to Peter Rabbit and friends. A favourite is the Peter Rabbit post box, where children can post their letters and some will receive a reply. A natural den, Hedgehog Hall, is not to miss and try to spot the bike hiding high in the trees.
Park Life
Master Park is located in the centre of Oxted, and a few minutes walk from the high street and station. The expanse of green open space makes for a family day out. With ample space for picnics, an ice cream van in summer months and a playground that children never want to leave, it’s a great way to spend family time. Oxted lawn Tennis Club is positioned in Master Park and offers tennis lessons for all ages and also has three courts. A cricket club with a clubhouse hosts children’s cricket during the summer, and throughout the year the park hosts various events and the odd funfair.
Family treats
If the weather isn’t compatible with outdoor activities, then indoor family pursuits are available. On the high street, Splattercraft is a treat for birthday parties or one-off events. Let the children get creative with the various arts and craft activities, including pottery painting and slime making. If it’s a relax and unwind the family requires, Everyman cinema close to the station is the place to be. The boutique Tudor-fronted cinema offers three screens and hot and cold snacks and drinks and sensational sundaes.
Sport on the doorstep
In the heart of Oxted is Tandridge Leisure Centre. The fun pool boasts a water slide, water canons and regular wave sessions. Also in the centre are Bounce and Play sessions for the little ones and a variety of school holiday activities. Two miles from the centre of Oxted is Holland Sports on Mill Lane where fantastic playing fields and tennis courts encourage more outdoor family fun. The recent Trim Trail is popular for children to ride their bikes, go running or scoot. There’s also a small playground and local events.
All the fun of the farm
A popular day out for Oxted residents and those from further afield is Godstone Farm. It’s less than a ten-minute drive from Oxted and possesses a wide array of animals to view and pet. A vast outdoor area hosts climbing frames, zip wires, sandpits and various other options for mini thrill-seekers and the dinosaur walk is a must. Take a tractor ride around the farm and watch out for seasonal activities and theme days.
Time to eat
Oxted offers an abundance of places to eat with the family. Old Oxted has family-friendly pubs with outdoor areas, and the high street has other options. For a delicious breakfast or brunch, there’s Toast or Café Papillon which parents will also love. For a lunch treat, Brisk Burgers is a firm favourite for families with a children’s menu bursting with tasty options and delicious milkshakes.
Oxted is a fantastic place for families to live and have fun all year round. There are many activities to do without having to travel and others just a short drive from the centre. It’s an ideal place to bring up children and enjoy quality time together. The stunning new development, Courtyard Gardens is ideally situated in the centre of Oxted, close to numerous facilities and the station.
Content source: https://www.robertleech.com/things-to-do-with-the-family-in-oxted/
#Oxted family activities#Oxted attractions for families#Family fun guide Oxted#Family-friendly events Oxted#Cultural experiences Oxted
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Bee Friendly – By Holly Short
In the first of our green-fingered blogs, Holly from Grow Smiles gives us some brilliant advice on how we can help our yellow and black, furry, friends.
Why are bees important?
Approximately 80% of all flowering plants are pollinated primarily by bees as well as other insects and animals. Our food is reliant on this pollination as it provides the fruit and vegetables we eat as well as the crop to feed livestock. According to the Healthy Bees Plan 2030, bee crop pollination brings around £600 million per year to England and Wales based on crop pollination. Of course it also generates invaluable food for wildlife. Bees are an integral part of our eco system and without them we would be in big trouble.
Bees are in danger across the world with rapidly decreasing numbers. There are two main reasons – habitat loss due to urbanisation and intensive farming methods and the use of pesticides.
What can I do?
There are lots of easy way for you to use your garden to provide the bees with food and shelter. Learn to love your bees, find out about them – how to identify the different types, how they behave and what they need. By looking after the bees you will also be looking after other pollinators like butterflies.
Grow bee friendly flowers and plants.
Bees are around for most of the year, some emerge from hibernation as early as February and others are still flying around in November. You may seem them even earlier or later if the weather is mild. I have seen big fluffy, sleepy Queen bees on sunny days in January looking for nectar. So try to make sure that they have some form of food all year round. They need nectar to give them energy to fly and find nests and pollen to feed their bee grubs. You can often see the pollen stuck to their back legs so that they can take it back to the hive – see our photos at the end of the article.
The tricky times for bees are late Winter into early Summer and Autumn, when flowers are not so profilic as they are in full Summer. Plant bulbs in Autumn to provide flowers for the bees in these sparse times – Snowdrops, Winter Aconite, Hyacinths, Crocus, Fritillaria and Alliums. Look to include Autumn flowers plants in your garden such as Asters and Japanese Anenome. Ivy provides a wonderful source of nectar and pollen during the Winter months. Have a look at this wonderful seasonal guide created by Friends of the Earth.
Give them shelter
If you have space and can cope with a bit of wild in your garden – leave a patch of lawn uncut. Bees love sheltering in Clover, Dandelions and long grass. If you can’t do that, why not build a bee hotel? It doesn’t have to be complicated, just a box or even on old plastic drinks bottle with hollow branches, pine cones, drilled out logs – other pollinating insects will love it too. The Bee Friendly Trust have written a lovely, simple guide to help you build a bee hotel.
Learn to love your bees
Watching and listening to bees is mesmerising. In early Summer my garden is full of Alliums and in early Autumn, Asters – the sound of the buzzing is amazing and there are so many different types of bees to see. The Bumble Bee Conservation has a great tool to help you first identify the different types and then to learn about all of their unique habits. They also do some great posters and pocket books. Once you become more involved and connected with the bees, you will naturally want to look after them – which can only be good for the bees!
Don’t use or support the use of chemicals
Learn how to Grow Green – harness the power of nature to grow better plants without harming the environment. Our Grow Green article can help you – it’s updated with new things we learn – so very frequently. Also look at what’s happening in the world around you, at the big picture. For example, in 2021 the UK government reversed recently made decisions put in place to protect our bees and wildlife – read more at the Wild Life & Countryside Link. Stand up for our bees. (Update June 2021 – this decision has once again been reversed – so our bees are now more protected. It is still always worth keeping an eye on legislations as clearly they can be changed very quickly).
You will experience so much joy by loving and protecting the bees – new found buzzy friends that do so much good for our plant, not to mention beautiful flowers, plants and gardens. Our plant list highlights the plants we have that are bee friendly.
Bee friendly – Make the World a Better Place
By Holly Short
Grow Smiles, Church Farm, Betchworth, RH3 7DH
Content source: https://www.robertleech.com/bee-friendly-by-holly-short/
#Lingfield Luxury Homes#Bee Friendly Holly Short#Oxted Homes For Sale#Eco-friendly home#House Sale Oxted
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Growing Green by Holly Short
Growing Green is a more gentle, wise and holistic approach to gardening; ensuring our gardens fit into our natural eco system and play a beneficial role. In a nutshell this means using organic, natural and sustainable solutions, encouraging wildlife and reducing our carbon footprint. Here are the main things to consider:
There is no need to use chemicals in your garden. Nature gifts us everything we need. Read on to find out more about practical ways to use organic, natural solutions.
Use sustainable sources. One of the biggest issues in the gardening world is the use of peat in compost. Peatlands support an array of rare and unusual plants, insects and birds. They also store 25% of the global soil carbon and when peat is removed or dries, carbon is released. Gardening peat free helps minimises our impact on climate change and protects peatland biodiversity. Legislation is going through to ban the use of peat in compost but whilst that is happening you can vote with your wallet and buy peat free compost. Why not install a water butt? Your plants will prefer rainwater and saving water is always a good thing. Recycle and reuse – plant in yoghurt pots, take away cartons – think how you can repurpose items for your garden.
Encourage wildlife in your garden. Plant flowers that will provide bees and butterflies with food in the form of pollen. You can start as early as February with Hyacinths and Crocus. Have a read of our article – Bee Friendly. Bug hotels encourage insects and a pond can create a whole new eco system in your garden – including frogs – who eat slugs. Support the birds with food and nesting boxes, they will also eat garden pests. There are so many things you can do to encourage wildlife in your garden – I will write an article about it soon – in the meantime Ecosia it for more information (https://www.ecosia.org), Ecosia plant trees with their profits.
Consider your carbon footprint. This can be as simple as growing food in your garden – plant to plate versus plant to plane to distribution centre to supermarket is a no brainer. Coir based compost is better than peat based, coir plant pots are better than plastic – but coir is a coconut byproduct. We don’t grow coconuts in the UK – so they have to be flown in – so whilst you’ve ticked the sustainable and non-plastic box – your carbon footprint is blown.
Growing green takes a little effort but harnessing the forces of nature to protect the environment and produce stunning plants is incredibly satisfying and becomes a habit.Once you’ve started you will never consider a chemical, non-sustainable option.All it takes is a little effort and thought.
How do you apply it in practice?
Soil
Let’s start at the basics – the soil. Good soil is key to growing wonderful plants. Sometimes they may need extra help, in the form of feeding, fertilising, particularly when fruiting and flowering. There are lots of chemical solutions on the market.They work, in the short term, but they do absolutely nothing to sustain the beings in the soil that naturally fertilise it and can cause damage to natural, beneficial microbial organisms.
Start a compost heap.Don’t throw your garden and kitchen waste (avoid citrus & meat) away.Chuck it on your compost heap.This will create wonderful compost that you can use on your garden to fertilise the soil.Compost bins will speed up the process – many councils encourage this form of recycling and offer discounts on compost bins. You could build one or just have a heap in a hidden spot of the garden. If you don’t have the space for a compost heap and have to buy it, make sure it’s peat free.
Create liquid fertiliser. There are many ways to this and it will really make a difference to your plants. We have seen tremendous results this year using Comfrey and Nettle tea. Here are some easy ideas:
Wait until the water from cooking your veggies, eggs or pasta has cooled and pour it over your plants; full of nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus – your plants will love it.
Collect nettlesand create nettle tea. It is said that you can grab a nettle in a certain way without being stung.We have tried this, with painful results, and most certainly say wear long gloves.Young nettles are best.
There are other forms of “tea” you can make – compost, Borage, Comfrey – have a scoot round the internet to discover the wonderful natural fertilising teas you can make. This is a fabulous article to read written by Matt Peskett, on his Grow Like Grandad page. Have a look at his page, there are lots of wonderful articles. Matt lives just down the road in Dorking.
Pests
So now we have naturally created the best environment for our plants, onto address the big caterpillar in the room. There is an army of creatures, natural beings, patrolling our gardens that are quite capable of undoing our hard work.Naughty nibblers that create holes in our leaves, decimate our seedlings and overwhelm our plants.Those beautiful white butterflies that flit around your flowers will lay eggs that turn into hungry, leaf munching caterpillars; slugs will leave a slime of destruction behind them and aphids will sneakily invade the underside of your leaves, slowly eating and taking over your plant.
Whilst it’s hard, as of course these creatures turn into the enemy in our heads, we must remember that they are all part of our eco system and serve a purpose in nature and our gardens.A bottle of chemical insect repellent/destroyer will solve your problem – but what problems does it create for nature?Slugs that have gobbled up chemical pellets will poison birds and hedgehogs that eat them, the chemicals can leach into your veggies – it’s just not good for your garden or our environment.So what can you do?
Trust nature. Nature has its own answer to ensure that plants survive. One minute you will be watching your plants being munched by a set of insects then the next minute nature will send in a new insect that will eat the first set! For example, Hoverfly and Ladybird larvae for example will eat aphids. Sometimes it’s hard to watch your plants dissolve before your eyes so there are some other solutions you can use.
Slugs – garden Velociraptors with on average 27,000 teeth!Their Achilles heel is that they hate onions and garlic.In my garden I have a whole area dedicated to Alliums (from the onion & garlic family).Unlike the rest of my garden – I never spy a slug in there.So one solution is to dot Alliums or other onion/garlic related plants around your garden.Another is to make a simple garlic wash.Start applying this from February – straight into the soil. The slugs start laying their eggs from mid February. According to Newcastle University studies, the garlic wash will destroy the eggs.
Blitz 1 bulb of garlic, boil in 1 pint of water for 3-4 minutes, strain & make back up to 1 pint.When you’re ready to use, dilute 2 tablespoons to 5 litres of water & sprinkle on leaves (or soil from mid February).Repeat every 2 weeks or after it rains.You can freeze the original mix or just leave in your fridge – it doesn’t matter if you wouldn’t eat it – it will still put the slugs off.It’s not fool proof but it really helps.
You can also put a rough mulch, egg shells or grit around your plants to put slugs off – they understandably hate a rough surface. Copper tape around pots is also said to work.
Companion plantingis a wonderful and pretty way to stop insects attacking your beloved plants.You can use them in different ways.Some plants emit a scent that will disguise your master plant and some plants even “sacrifice” themselves for your master plant.Companion planting can also be used for fertilising their nearby friends – look for nitrogen releasing plants such as Beans and Lupins.Books have been written about companion planting and it is really worth researching these, here are two of my favourites.
Marigolds– these colourful and easy to grow plants secrete a substance that keeps harmful nematodes like eel worms away.They also release a fungus that magically exchanges nutrients with their host plants for their mutual health and growth.Their scent deters lots of naughty nibblers such as white fly, tomato moth and cabbage white butterflies whilst at the same time attracting insects such as hoverflies whose larvae eat aphids.You can even make, you guessed it, Marigold tea to spray onto your plants!Plant them by potatoes, tomatoes, cucumber, aubergines, peppers and chillies.
Nasturtiums – these pretty, edible, easy to grow plants attract aphids which will attack them ahead of any other plants.Butterflies will lay eggs under their leaves that the caterpillars will feed on.Plant them by tomatoes, cabbages, cucumbers, squashes and fruit trees.
Spray Away.First try just spraying away with water. You can get rid of a lot of aphids with a squirt of water and the ladybirds, spiders and other garden cleaners will come in and do the rest of the work for you. If you do get a really bad insect invasion problem, we would recommend using a Neem oil spray, 1tsp Neem oil to 1ltr water.This will repel insects but does also kill the ones on your plant – up to you.It will not harm any creatures that then eat the insects. We try to use it as a repellent together with companion planting but will use it to kill insects if they are destroying one of our precious plants.It’s a personal decision.Neem oil is also great at getting rid of fungus, mildew and rust spots. If you haven’t got Neem oil to hand, just mix 1tsp of your (eco-friendly) washing up liquid with a litre of water and spray away.
Cats.Not an insect but we get a lot of questions about cats, we do not need or want to explain why these can be a pest.Avoid Nepeta – Cat Mint if cats are a problem – they love it.Mulching your beds with pine cones can also deter them.
These are just a few ways of how you can Grow Green. Take your growing to the next level with a longer term, more organic, natural and sustainable approach – become a positive part of the ecosystem and make it a lifetime habit.
If you. have any questions or suggestions – let us know email [email protected]
Harness the power of nature to Grow Green!
Holly Short from Grow Smiles
Content source: https://www.robertleech.com/growing-green-by-holly-short/
#Eco-friendly practices#Green living guide#Growing Green#Homes For Sale Reigate#House Sale Oxted#Lingfield Luxury Homes#Sustainable living
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Our 6 Favourite Beaches in the South East
With the temperature rising and summer nearly upon us – who doesn’t love a trip to the coast. Here are our favourite spots.
Camber Sands, East Sussex
Camber Sands is a truly gorgeous stretch of golden beach and sand dunes. At nearly 5 miles long, there will always be somewhere to lay your beach towel. The best section of beach is the western end, near where the River Rother empties into the sea. Here it is wall to wall sand, whilst further along the beach it becomes more shingly.
It’s a popular windsurfing / kite-surfing spot which might suggest it is worth packing a windbreak! Despite its fantastic natural assets, Camber Sands remains largely unspoilt. For the larger part of the year, there is a good chance of finding some solitude here and even in the height of summer the crowds are bearable.
Dog friendly? – Dogs are allowed all year but between May and September they must be on a lead and restricted between beach Zones F & H.
Travel time – Approx 1hr 30mins from RH2
West Wittering, West Sussex
A firm favourite with most of the office is the beautiful beach at West Wittering. Unfortunately, it is also a firm favourite with most of the south-east so make sure you set off early to avoid the traffic.
Offering wonderful views of Chichester Harbour and the South Downs beyond, the natural and unspoilt sandy beach of West Wittering is the perfect spot for a day at the beach. The extensive acres of neatly mown grass close to the beach are perfect for parking and picnics. The sea is popular with wind and kite surfers, while shallow lagoons are left on extensive sandy flats at low tide. The whole area is internationally recognised for its wildlife, birds and unique beauty.
Dog friendly? Bins are provided and dog free zones are in place from May to September.
Travel time – Approx 1hr 30mins from RH2
Ferring, West Sussex
This is one of our closest beaches and it’s a real hidden gem. Located between Worthing and Goring on the Sussex coast, Ferring is primarily a pebbly beach but if you go at low tide the sands seem to go on for miles. The beach starts at the Bluebird Cafe a great spot for brunch / lunch or a sundowner – you can also park here. The beach is very dog friendly with no restrictions at any time of year. This part of the coast is popular with kitesurfers and windsurfers and you can swim here. There are no lifeguards on duty, but coastal wardens are on patrol in the holidays. You can ride horses on this beach, and you will often see them riding along the seashore.
Dog friendly? Yep!
Travel time – About 50mins from RH2
Broadstairs, Kent
On the East Coast of Kent Broadstairs is a gem a town, full of seaside charm mixed with seaside chic and it boasts an impressive seven sand-filled beaches and bays. Head to Joss Bay to learn to surf, or rural Botany Bay to saunter amid towering chalk stacks. At the town’s main beach, Viking Bay, discover children’s rides, beach huts, Kent Surf School, a harbour and cliff-top promenade. Check out Morellis, the retro ice cream parlour along the promenade which has been open since 1932.
Dog friendly? During the summer months there are time restrictions on most of the beaches between 10am-6pm
Travel time – About 1hr 30 from RH2
Whitstable, Kent
The chic seaside town of Whitstable, on the North Kent Coast, has been a longtime favourite location for Londoners to get away from it all. The beach itself is a long stretch of shingle divided up by wooden groynes. It runs from just south of the town’s harbour to neighbouring Seasalter -a distance of around a mile, where you will find the The Sportsman, the well renowned and Michelin starred pub.
Despite the lack of sand Whitstable is still a fantastic spot. It represents the best of the traditional British seaside; not piers and donkey rides, but quirkiness and charm. There are beach huts, weatherboard cottages, fishing boats pulled up on the beach and the Neptune pub sits practically on the beach. There are a few other places to grab a bite to eat along the beach too, including the Whitstable Oyster Company restaurant if you fancy something a little upmarket.
Whitstable beach is popular for windsurfing and sailing, with the Whitstable Yacht Club located at the northern end.
To top this all off Whitstable beach faces west meaning it is a great place to catch a sunset.
Dog friendly? Yep!
Travel time – About 1hr 30 from RH2
Dungeness, Kent
Don’t expect your usual ‘beach trip’ as it’s impossible to escape the sense of having reached the end of the world when you get to Dungeness. This tiny fishing town, at the southernmost point of Kent, is very different from the ‘Garden of England’ of the imagination. Instead of bucolic homes and village greens, you’ll find a stark, wild landscape. The vast shingle desert headland is overlooked by the imposing Dungeness Nuclear Power Station but is renowned for its unique beauty, from its weathered wood cabins to its abandoned fishing boats – not to mention the wildlife that thrives there. It is also home to Prospect Cottage and its beautiful garden – former home of Derek Jarman, the film producer. Its bleak, beautiful and I love it.
Dog friendly? Yes
Travel time – Approx 1 hr 50 mins from RH2
Original article - https://www.robertleech.com/our-6-favourite-beaches-in-the-south-east/
#Best beaches in the South East#Estate Agents Near Me#House Agents Near Me#Robert Leech beach guide#South East beaches
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Our Green Agenda | Robert Leech
Could we be any greener?
We are taking our first step to achieving net zero emissions by setting out Our Green Agenda, with the aim to becoming net zero by 2030
1) One Tree Planted for Each & Every Valuation
To help us offset our carbon footprint, Robert Leech has partnered with One Tree Planted and we pledge to plant a tree for every sales & lettings valuation we carry out until 24th December 2022 and from then on we pledge to plant a tree for every sale. As a potential client or a vendor you can choose where to plant your tree from from countries around the world including the UK. Since 2014, One Tree Planted have planted over 40 million trees in more than 47 countries across the globe. In 2021, they more than doubled their impact from 2020 – with 23.5 million trees! We couldn’t be more excited to be part of this global phenomenon.
2) Bee Friendly with Robert Leech
Since May 2021 we have given out, for free, over 2000 bee friendly wild flower seed packets, equating to more than 10,000 plants. These have been distributed to 15 local primary schools as well as the general public via coffee shops and local events.
3) Reducing our Energy Usage
Robert Leech have three offices across Surrey and a significant contribution to our overall carbon footprint comes from the energy demands of light and heat. We have already put in measures to reduce the amount of electricity and gas we use in each office; turning down the heating, fitting light sensors to reduce usage and installing electrical car charge points at offices were possible.
We are investigating the use of greener forms of transport and introducing more sustainable business practises, such as reducing the amount of paper and plastic we use and working with our suppliers to become more environmentally conscious.
4) We’ll be Travelling Less
Our three offices arrange around 3000 viewing appointments every year so travel to and from properties is one of the largest contributors to our carbon footprint, as our staff accompany prospective buyers and tenants on every viewing.
Recognising this is the area where we are making a big impact, we will be literally taking the first steps by making sure we walk to viewings where ever possible! Diary management will also play a big part: We will create block viewings of properties and also making sure we group viewings by location so we do not waste fuel travelling to and from the office. If applicable, we can also offer virtual viewings, especially if it is a first time viewing and the applicant lives out of the area and has a significant way to travel. This will help us reduce the amount of mileage to and from properties and therefore minimise fuel consumption associated with every property sale and let, whilst still being able to accompany buyers and tenants around a property either physically or online.
Why is Reducing Our Carbon Footprint Important?
Over the past two decades the effects of climate change have accelerated. Considerable evidence exists proving climate change has been exacerbated by human activity. Changes in our post-industrial lifestyles have altered the chemical composition of the atmosphere, generating a build-up of greenhouse gases – primarily carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide levels – raising the average global temperature.
The consequences are already evident and will continue to worsen unless significant action is taken and quickly. Sea level will continue to rise and local climate conditions to be altered, causing an increase in extreme weather events, affecting forests, crop yields, and water supplies. This can lead to homelessness, famine and conflict as resources become scarcer.
It is vital that all individuals, businesses, organisations and governments work towards the common goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Original article - https://www.robertleech.com/our-green-agenda/
#Sustainability in Real Estate#Energy-efficient Properties#Green Building Practices#Green Initiatives in Real Estate
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Tips on Maintaining a Period Home
Owning an old property is like safeguarding a slice of history. Whether you’ve inherited a cherished family home or you’re a proud owner of a period property, here’s how to maintain it so that future generations can enjoy it as much as you do…
Weatherproofing
One of the secrets to maintaining an old property lies in weatherproofing. Sealing gaps and cracks in windows, doors, and walls can help to prevent draughts and unwanted moisture. You could also install weatherstripping and draught excluders to keep the chilly British weather at bay. By fortifying your property against the elements, you’ll not only enhance comfort but also safeguard its structural integrity.
Embrace regular inspections
Older properties often have hidden quirks and idiosyncrasies that require attention, so make sure to stay one step ahead by scheduling regular inspections. Engage the services of a qualified professional to assess your property’s structural integrity, electrical systems, plumbing, and overall condition. This proactive approach will help you identify and address any issues before they become major headaches.
Set aside emergency funds
If you’ve owned the property for a long time, you’re probably already aware that your home will require ongoing maintenance; but unexpected repairs might still catch you off guard. To ease the financial burden, consider setting up a dedicated maintenance fund. There’s no need to deposit a hefty sum all at once, but regularly contributing small amounts to this fund will ensure that you’re prepared to tackle any unforeseen issues that may arise.
Timely painting and maintenance
Regularly inspect your property’s exterior and interior surfaces for signs of wear and tear. Cracked paint, flaking plaster, or signs of rotting wood should be addressed promptly. If your home could use a fresh lick of paint, choose colours that complement the architectural style and era of your property, as this will give it a refreshed yet authentic look.
Respectful renovations
When it comes to renovations, it’s important to strike a balance between modernisation and preservation. While you may want to introduce contemporary elements, maintaining the property’s original charm should be a priority. Seek out specialist builders and tradespeople who are experienced in working with period properties. By employing their expertise, you can ensure that any renovations are sympathetic to the property’s wonderful character.
Mindful landscaping
The exterior of your old property deserves just as much care and attention as the interior. You might want to carefully plan your landscaping to enhance its overall appeal, but keep in mind the historical context of your property and choose plants, hedges, and flowers that are in harmony with its era.
Preserving original features
Older properties often boast exquisite original features that contribute to their unique charm. Whether it’s ornate fireplaces, exposed beams, or period floorings, make an effort to preserve and restore these elements whenever possible. Consult with specialists who can advise you on the best practices for maintaining and restoring these features, ensuring they remain a testament to the property’s history.
Contact us
Do you want to find your perfect period home? Get in touch today.
Original article - https://www.robertleech.com/tips-on-maintaining-a-period-home/
#Estate Agents Near Me#Property Agents Near Me#Property Letting Agents In Oxted#Property Rental Agents#Reigate Property Services In Oxted
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