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Shere is a village in the Guildford district of Surrey, England 4.8 miles (7.7 km) east south-east of Guildford and 5.4 miles (8.7 km) west of Dorking, centrally bypassed by the A25. Located on the River Tillingbourne it is a small still partly agricultural village chiefly set in the wooded Vale of Holmesdale between the North Downs and Greensand Ridge. As of 2011 the village had a population of 1,032.

Key Information

The village gives its name to the larger civil parish of Shere, extending to the east and south into hamlets founded in the early Middle Ages which officially, in the 19th century, were consolidated into three villages; Gomshall, Holmbury St. Mary and Peaslake. This larger entity has a total population of 3,359 and area of 24.5 square kilometres (9.5 sq mi) (as at the 2011 census).[2]

History

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Domesday book and manors

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Shere appears in Domesday Book of 1086 as Essira and Essire in the ancient hundred of Blackheath.[3] It was held by William the Conqueror. Its Domesday assets were: 1 church, 2 mills worth 10s per year, 14 ploughs, 3 acres (1.2 ha) of meadow, woodland worth 50 hogs. It rendered £15 per year to its overlords.[3][4][5]

In 1086, when Gomshall was royal demesne, the villeins (villagers) there were exempt from the sheriff's jurisdiction; Gomshall Netley and Gomshall Towerhill manors had court baron. Eleanor, Countess of Ormond owning the Vachery manor, had view of frankpledge in Gomshall Towerhill. In 1281 William Braose was granted free warren there

In the 13th century Roger de Clare settled for a life-rent on the church and sold the manor of Shere to a grandson of Geoffrey Fitz Peter, 1st Earl of Essex. In turn his grandson divided the manor, according with the law of moiety title to his daughter Joan Butler who thus received the new manor of Shiere Vachery; while Richard Óg de Burgh, 2nd Earl of Ulster ('the red Earl') received Shiere Ebor(acum). Two other manors evolved.

Highlights of the often influential tapestry of powerful owners include (but are not limited to):

Powerful or nationally significant lords of the four manors
Shiere Vachery or Shere Vachery Shiere Ebor or Shere Eboracum Gomshall Netley Towerhil
James Butler, 1st Earl of Ormond William Donn de Burgh, 3rd Earl of Ulster Netley Abbey William de Braose
James Butler, 3rd Earl of Ormond ('the noble Earl') Philippa, 5th Countess of Ulster Sir Edward Bray MP (Tudor) Rowland de Bloet
James Butler, 4th Earl of Ormond ('the white Earl') Roger Mortimer, 4th Earl of March and daughter Anne de Mortimer Eastminster (or St Mary Graces) Abbey, by Tower Hill (reversion accruing ground rent then full agricultural rent) 1350–1538
James Butler, 5th Earl of Ormond (Earl of Wiltshire) Richard of York, 3rd Duke of York and his widow Cecily Neville, Duchess of York
Sir Reginald Bray (political advisor to Henry VII of England and statesman) to tenant: James Tuchet, 7th Baron Audley Henry VIII as dower property for wives until Katherine Howard hence alternative name, the Queens Hold
Sir Edmund Bray MP Edmund Tylney, Master of the Revels (or Queen's Revels)[6]
Edward Braye MP

Medieval to 19th century

[edit]

The Victoria County History (Surrey: 1911) cites numerous mentions in the Assize Rolls, Patent Rolls, Feet of Fines and the ecclesiastical records of Westminster and Lambeth Palaces. Traditionally the parish included the areas of the current civil parish and measured about 4+12 miles from north to south, and from 2 to 2+12 miles from east to west and contained 6,400 acres of land and 12 of water.[6]

The neighbourhood was for a time one of the wildest in Surrey: sheep-stealers, smugglers, and poachers found a refuge in these remote hills. Some of the cottages have, still existing, very large cellars (excavated easily in the sandy hill), stated by H.E. Malden to have been "far too large for any honest purpose, and were no doubt made for storing smuggled goods till they could be conveniently taken on to London".[6]

In 1671, a Shere man called Edward Bound was charged by church authorities with "playing cricket on the Sabbath" and was exonerated, one of the sport's earliest references.[7]

Iron was worked from the stone and into implements in centuries before the 18th century in Shere.[6] In 1911 great quantities of watercress were grown which is no longer the case;[6] the principal area in southern England for this being near New Alresford in Hampshire.

19th century

[edit]

Holmbury St. Mary up in the Greensand Ridge was a modern village term devised in 1878 for the two hamlets of Felday in Shere and Pitland Street in Shere and Abinger, when the place became a civil parish and ecclesiastical parish. The Church of England schools were built in 1860 and enlarged in 1900.[6]

School

[edit]

Shere Infant and Nursery School has been serving the local community since 1852, celebrating its 175th birthday in 2017. The school received a 'Good' status from the Ofsted inspection in December 2015.[8]

Landmarks

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St James' Church

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The church of St James is in the Early English style, most being 12th, 13th and 14th century. It replaced an earlier Anglo-Saxon church mentioned in the Domesday Book.[9] Constructed of ironstone rubble with sandstone buttresses, it was restored in 1895 by S. Weatherley. By the north chancel wall there is a 14th-century quatrefoil window and squint – belonging to an Anchorite cell used by Christina Carpenter in the 14th-century. There is 14th-century glass in the east window and the chancel fittings were renewed in 1956 by Louis Osman. It is a Grade I listed building.[10]

Other Listed Buildings

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Within the village centre conservation area there are 34 listed buildings.

These are all older than 1830, in some cases by several centuries.[11]

Transport

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The village can be accessed for long-distance travel from the north and west from the A3 at West Clandon – from the east the M25 at Leatherhead and the A24 at Dorking followed by the A25 road provides a shorter alternative route than taking the first route; there are minor routes south however the nearest major route directly south is the A24 at Dorking.

Gomshall railway station is less than 1 mile (1.6 km) away on the Reading to Gatwick line. While 1614 people (65% of the parish) in 2001 for instance were economically active, only 178 routinely used public transport and 1037 used motor vehicles. The average Shere commuter travels 20.3 kilometres (12.6 mi) to work.[12]

Economy, demography and housing

[edit]
Shere Shop sign

The economy is a mixture of local and regional with the many shops and some farming within it. A significant minority of the working population are London commuters, particularly in the civil parish at large. The 2001 census shows the self-employed (including with employees) form 36% of the population, retirees form 16% of the population and employees form 48% of the population. 77% of the ward's population is Christian, of the remainder 22% are of no religion or not stated.[2]

Burdens
Footbridge by streamside village centre footpath

Within the civil parish are shops, four village halls, and three post offices. Many walks radiate from the village, including a streamside walk, parts of the North Downs Way and the Pilgrims' Way. In the village are Millstream Press, a book publisher named after the Tillingbourne, a textiles-cum-boutique[13] and Surrey Hills Brewery.[14]

The United Kingdom Census 2011 considered the village as four relevant output layers, approximately a third of the ward Shere, the latter being used for elections to Guildford Borough Council. All parts featured their single largest proportion of housing as either semi-detached or single-family homes and most of these with gardens.

In all 439 households (in slightly fewer homes) make up the village including its scattered farms and cottages. The census boundaries drawn exclude central and eastern Burrows Cross due to is proximity to slightly larger hamlet Gomshall, being contiguous and due south Burrows Cross had census overlap of its output areas (E00155528 and E00155529) and was included within Gomshall.

The proportion of households in three divisions of Shere who owned their home outright was at least 5% above the national average, in the fourth division this was 3% below, a central area including one of the two conservation area thoroughfares. The proportion of residents who owned their home with a loan was between 2.8% and 11.3% lower than the national average. The census shows that overall, Shere has a lower proportion than average of rented residential property and of social housing relative to the Surrey and national averages.[1]

2011 Census Key Statistics
Output area Population Households % Owned outright % Owned with a loan hectares[1]
E00155527 220 100 39.0 30.0 165
E00155526 329 144 35.4 23.6 87
E00155525 142 51 51.0 23.5 677
E00155524 341 144 27.1 21.5 59

Across the whole parish the 2011 distribution of housing was:

2011 Census Homes
Output area Detached Semi-detached Terraced Flats and apartments Caravans/temporary/mobile homes shared between households[1]
(Civil Parish) 745 477 146 103 4 0

The average level of accommodation in the region composed of detached houses was 28%, the average that was apartments was 22.6%.

Local government

[edit]

At Surrey County Council, one of the 81 representatives represents the area within the Shere division which includes Albury and (East and West) Clandon.[15]

At Guildford Borough Council most wards of the borough are deemed appropriate to be represented under the current constitution of councillors by two to three councillors, which is the case for the Tillingbourne ward which has two.

Guildford Borough Councillors
Election Member Ward
2015 Richard Billington (Conservative) Tillingbourne[16]
2019 Diana Jones (Green Party)
Surrey County Councillor
Election Member[17]

Electoral Division

2017 Keith Taylor (Conservative) Shere

Notable residents

[edit]
Anchoress of Shere
  • Christine Carpenter (of unknown year of birth and death) submitted a petition in 1329[18] and consequently was granted permission to become the Anchoress of Shere Church[19] (aka. The Church of St. James). She received her food and drink from friends and family through a metal grating on the outside wall. In the interior of the church a quatrefoil shape was cut out of the wall through which she could receive the Eucharist and a squint (or hagioscope) for her use for prayer and reflection. She left her cell and in 1332 she applied again and was granted permission to be re-enclosed.[9]
  • Benjamin Williams Leader (1831–1923), landscape artist. Lived in the parish from 1889 to 1923 at Burrows Cross, a large mansion which dominated its hamlet directly south-east of the village, designed by Norman Shaw.
  • Lewis Pinhorn Wood (1848–1918), landscapist and watercolourist, best known for his rural scenes of Sussex and Surrey. In the tradition of the Victorian era, his work depicted idyllic scenes of rural life across the home counties. He lived with his family in the parish in the 1870s and 1880s at 'Burnside'.
  • Harry Edwards (1893–1976), spiritual healer, founded his "Spiritual Healing sanctuary" at Burrows Lea, a house in the east of the parish, in 1946; he went on to found the "National Federation of Spiritual Healers" (NFSH) in 1959.[20]
  • John "Hoppy" Hopgood (1921–1943), a pilot with 617 Squadron, the Dambusters. Flying as Guy Gibson's second in command, he was killed in the attack on the Möhne dam. "Hoppy" lived in Hurstcote House on Hook Lane which is now the site of Shere Court.
[edit]

Film location

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Since at least the early 20th century, the location and Tudor architecture has been a draw for artists and film-makers. The Victoria County History, which was written for the county of Surrey in 1911, lavished more praise than on any other village:

Shere has often been called one of the most beautiful villages in England; certainly few can surpass it in Surrey for a combination of those qualities that go to make up the ideal village... Shere is, therefore, the haunt of painters, many of them residents in and around, and samples of their handiwork may be inspected in the ancient Black Horse Inn.[6]

Films made in the area include:

Shere parish millennium trail

In literature

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Anchoress of Shere by Paul L. Moorcraft.[27]

The Passionate Friends, a social commentary novel by H. G. Wells, places the protagonist's marriage here.[28]

Shere Lane, one of four relatively narrow streets
Listed building

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Shere is a picturesque village in the district of , , situated in the Surrey Hills between the towns of and along the River Tillingbourne. Renowned for its quintessential English charm, Shere features historic stone cottages, a babbling stream frequented by ducks, and landmarks such as the 12th-century Church of St. James, which is mentioned in the of 1086. The village has served as a filming location for films including (2006) and (2004), enhancing its appeal as a tourist destination with attractions like the Shere Museum, traditional pubs such as The and The William Bray, and the historic Shere , one of Britain's oldest public open-air pools, which became public in 1899. The history of Shere dates back to the , when it was recorded in the as Essira or Essire, held directly by , encompassing 31 households, one church, two mills valued at 10 shillings, and woodland sufficient for 50 swine. The local economy historically revolved around agriculture, milling, weaving of fustian cloth in the , and tanning, supported by the clear waters of the Tillingbourne; later, at the Gomshall Brewery (1817–1926) supplied village inns. Land ownership centered on several manors, with Shere Manor granted to Sir Reginald Bray by Henry VII after the Battle of Bosworth in 1485, remaining in the Bray family to the present day as a privately owned estate integral to the area's heritage. The of Shere, which includes the villages of Shere, Gomshall, and Peaslake, had a of 3,770 according to the 2021 UK Census. Today, Shere exemplifies rural life, with community assets like the volunteer-managed —gifted to the village in 1891 by Lady Arthur Russell and handed over to the parish council in 1899, saved from closure by locals in 1989—fostering a strong sense of local identity. Nearby natural sites, including the Silent Pool and Newlands Corner, offer hiking opportunities amid the , while the village's architecture, including Lutyens-inspired designs, underscores its enduring cultural and scenic significance.

Geography

Location and boundaries

Shere is a and village in the borough of , , situated in the Tillingbourne Valley approximately 4.8 miles (7.7 km) east-southeast of and 5.4 miles (8.7 km) west of . The parish lies at the foot of the , a range of chalk hills, along the River Tillingbourne, which flows through the central village. The encompasses the villages of Shere, Gomshall, Holmbury St. Mary, Peaslake, and most of Abinger Hammer (excluding the village centre itself). It covers a total area of 24.52 km² (9.46 sq mi), making it the largest parish by area in the borough, and includes extensive rural landscapes designated as part of the Surrey Hills National Landscape, the , and an Area of Great Landscape Value. Historically, the boundaries have included the hamlets of Felday and Pislake (now corresponding to parts of Peaslake), with an area recorded as 6,396 acres (25.9 km²) in the mid-19th century, reflecting minor adjustments over time but maintaining a focus on the valley and surrounding hills. The is centrally bypassed by the A25 road, preserving its rural character while connecting it to nearby towns.

Physical features

Shere lies within the Tillingbourne Valley in the Surrey Hills National Landscape, a designated encompassing the parish of Shere, which includes the villages of Shere, Gomshall, Holmbury St. Mary, Peaslake, and most of Abinger Hammer. The terrain features gently undulating hills and a narrow floor at approximately 35 meters above (AOD), with steeply sloping sides rising to surrounding hills that reach elevations of up to 243 m AOD south of Peaslake. This landscape is bordered to the north by the chalk downs of the , creating a transition from rolling claylands to wooded escarpments. The Tillingbourne River is a defining hydrological feature, flowing eastward through the valley before joining the River Wey south of ; it supports a network of tributaries, ponds, weirs, and historic mill sites that have shaped the area's settlement patterns and . Elevations vary from low-lying valley floors to prominent hills such as nearby St Martha's Hill (in the adjacent St Martha parish), which exceeds 165 m AOD and forms part of the Wooded Greensand Hills. These hills, including Shere Heath, offer panoramic views and remnant open heathland amid pastoral farmland. Geologically, the region is dominated by Lower Greensand Group formations, including the Hythe Formation (well-sorted sands and sandstones up to 85 m thick, with chert nodules), Bargate Formation (gritty, ferruginous sandstones up to 10 m thick, with outliers around Shere), Sandgate Formation (argillaceous, glauconitic sands 0–45 m thick, often absent near Shere), and Formation (loose, ferruginous sands 32–60 m thick). These overlie Clay and are capped in places by Upper siltstones and the , which forms the nearby Hog's Back ridge at around 152 m AOD. within these strata contributes to the formation of steep-sided hills. Soils reflect this geology, with nutrient-poor, acidic sandy types derived from supporting heathlands, woodlands, and acid-loving vegetation, while fertile loamy soils over underlying clays sustain pastures and historic parklands. Notable natural features include ancient woodlands like those at assarted woods at Burrows Cross, and biodiversity-rich areas designated as , enhanced by spring lines and . Nearby Colyers Hanger (a in the adjacent St Martha parish) exemplifies the broader woodland character.

History

Early history and Domesday Book

The settlement of Shere in Surrey likely originated during the Saxon period, as evidenced by its pre-Conquest landholding and inclusion in the Domesday survey, which typically recorded established communities. Prior to 1066, the manor was held by Queen Edith, wife of Edward the Confessor, indicating a significant royal estate in the area. The name Shere appears in the Domesday Book as Essira or Essire, derived from Old English elements suggesting a 'bright' or 'clear' place, possibly referring to the clear waters of the nearby Tillingbourne stream. Archaeological evidence is limited, but the presence of a church by 1086 points to an organized community with religious institutions predating the Norman Conquest. In the of 1086, Shere is described as a substantial settlement in Blackheath hundred, held directly by King William I as part of the royal . It supported 31 households, comprising 19 villagers, 6 smallholders, and 6 slaves, suggesting a population of around 150–200 people when accounting for families and dependents. The land included 14 ploughlands (with 2 teams on the lord's and 12 for the men), 3 acres of meadow, woodland rendering 50 swine, and 2 mills valued at 10 shillings annually; a church is also noted. The manor's total value was assessed at 15 pounds, unchanged from its 1066 estimate, reflecting economic stability amid the Conquest's upheavals. The villeins of nearby Gomshall, part of the same royal holding, enjoyed exemption from the sheriff's jurisdiction, highlighting early administrative privileges. Following the Domesday survey, King William II (William Rufus) granted Shere to William de Warenne as part of the earldom of endowment after 1086, marking the transition from royal to baronial control. This tenure persisted through the de Warenne family until the early 13th century, when the manor passed to Roger de Clare. By the mid-13th century, after the death of , son of John de Warenne, the estate was divided into moieties known as Shiere Vachery and Shiere Ebor, laying the foundation for later manorial subdivisions. The of the church, mentioned in Domesday, was sold by Roger de Clare to Netley Abbey in 1243, integrating Shere into monastic networks. These early post-Conquest changes underscore the manor's strategic importance in the feudal landscape of .

Medieval and early modern periods

Following the Domesday survey, the manor of Shere, originally held by William I, was granted to William de Warenne, Earl of Surrey, by William II after 1086, forming part of the Honour of Warenne. By the 13th century, it had been divided into Shere Vachery and Shere Ebor (or Yoke), with Vachery passing through the Butler family to the Earls of Ormond; it was forfeited to the Crown in 1461 after the attainder of Thomas, Earl of Ormond, following the Battle of Towton. In 1467, Edward IV granted Shere Vachery to James Lord Audley, who led the Cornish rebels through Shere in 1497 during their march on London, resulting in his execution and the manor's reversion to the Crown; Henry VII then bestowed it upon Sir Reginald Bray in 1486 as a reward for his service in the Wars of the Roses. Shere Ebor, meanwhile, descended from Richard de Burgh, Earl of Ulster (d. 1326), to the Mortimer earls of March, and upon their forfeiture in 1461, it passed to the Crown before being granted to John Cokk in the 1540s under Edward VI. The Bray family consolidated control over Shere's manors in the early modern period, with Sir Edward Bray acquiring Shere Ebor by marriage in the 16th century and purchasing it outright in 1603; by 1771, William Bray reunited Shere Ebor with Vachery, which remained in the Bray family into the 18th century under Sir Reginald More Bray. Adjacent manors like Gomshall, part of the royal demesne in 1086, were subdivided into Gomshall Netley and Towerhill by the 13th century; Netley was granted to Netley Abbey in 1233 and later passed to the Bray family after the Dissolution, while Towerhill descended through the de Braose and Bray lines, uniting with the main estates by the 16th century. Sutton manor, linked to the Shere holdings, was held by the Hill family in the 16th century before transferring to the Leighs, Huntleys, and Husseys, and was sold to Edward Pike Heath before 1728. The Church of St. James, referenced in , underwent significant medieval rebuilding, with a tower erected by 1150 and a south added around 1200; the was reconstructed between 1300 and 1320 under the patronage of Netley Abbey, which had acquired the in 1243 despite disputes with the lords of Shere Vachery. The alternated between abbey presentations (e.g., 1379–1390) and lay patrons until a 1518 settlement granted it to Sir Edmund Bray; a to Our Lady was established in the church during the 14th century. In the early , the passed to the Duncomb family by 1677 and was sold to John Smallpeice in 1831, though clerical appointments continued under lay influence. Architectural features from this period include a 12th-century font and south doorway, with a timber added circa 1300. Economically, Shere remained agrarian-focused through the medieval and early modern periods, with fertile Tillingbourne valley lands supporting ; watermills recorded in Domesday (two at Shere, one at Gomshall) operated into the 14th century, and ironworking occurred locally, as noted in historical accounts. A market was granted for Shere Vachery in 1309, likely situated west of the church, though it appears to have been short-lived amid modest development evidenced by limited medieval pottery finds. By the , watercress cultivation in Tillingbourne ponds became notable, and ancient fustian cloth production was referenced by antiquarian ; the hilly terrain facilitated sheep-rearing but also and sheep-stealing in the wilder areas. The Bray family's long tenure as lords of the manor shaped local governance and land use, with William Bray (1736–1832), a prominent historian born in Shere, documenting the village's customs and estates in his diaries.

19th century to present

During the , Shere experienced infrastructural and educational advancements largely driven by the Bray family, long-term owners of the Shere Manor Estate. The current was constructed in 1840, serving as the . In 1842, Louisa Bray and Laura Lomax founded Shere School on estate land and stone, establishing a key that enrolled 259 pupils by 1892. The Shere Reading Room opened in 1856 to promote among villagers, while a public water supply system was installed in 1889 by Sir Reginald More Bray, extending benefits to Shere, Gomshall, and nearby Hook Lane. Additional cottages were built during this period, including two designed by architect , reflecting estate-led improvements in rural housing. The local economy centered on , supplemented by —women spun from local sheep—and tanning, particularly in Gomshall, where the industry supported . An open-air was established in the early 1890s, enhancing community recreation, and Netley Park's main house was built in the late 1850s by Sir Edmund Lomax. The early 20th century brought further refinements to village life, with the estate introducing a Gypsy Camp in 1923 for seasonal travelers and establishing Hurtwood Control after the 1925 Law of Property Act to manage common lands. During , the area housed evacuees at Tower Hill Manor in Gomshall from 1940 onward, while resident Connie Miles documented daily wartime experiences in a diary spanning 1939 to 1945, later published by the . Post-war recovery saw estate efforts to modernize cottages under Bray, ensuring all had indoor bathrooms by 1964, alongside the closure of the Gomshall tannery in 1989, marking the decline of industrial activities. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Shere evolved into a primarily residential and tourist destination, renowned as "Surrey’s prettiest village" for its picturesque setting and historic timber-framed buildings from the 16th to 19th centuries. A bypass constructed in 1960 diverted traffic from central roads like Upper Street and Gomshall Lane, preserving the village's tranquility. Low-density housing, such as the post-war Pathfields estate, contributed to gradual expansion, while the designation of the Shere Conservation Area on 31 July 1973 protected 61 listed buildings and the surrounding landscape. Tourism now sustains small retail and service businesses, with mills like Gomshall Mill repurposed as a restaurant. The Shere Manor Estate, reduced by 20th-century death duties, retains about 40 cottages for affordable local housing and oversees environmental initiatives via the Friends of the Hurtwood charity. Recent additions include a doctor's surgery in 1993 and a public car park in 2010 to address modern needs. The civil parish population grew to 3,630 by the 2011 census and 3,770 by 2021, reflecting steady demographic expansion amid rural preservation efforts.

Demographics

The population of Shere has exhibited steady growth since the early 19th century, reflecting broader patterns of rural expansion in driven by agricultural improvements, industrialization in nearby areas, and later from . According to historical records, the population rose from 871 in 1801 to 1,403 by 1851, more than doubling amid the agricultural revolution and population pressures of the Industrial era. This upward trajectory continued through the late 19th and early 20th centuries, reaching 2,184 in 1901 and accelerating to 3,876 by 1961, influenced by post-war housing developments and improved transport links. A slight decline occurred in the 1970s, with the population falling to 3,705 by 1971, possibly due to out-migration as younger residents sought opportunities in urban centers. Recovery followed in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, with figures climbing to 3,359 in 2001, 3,630 in 2011, and 3,770 in 2021, representing an average annual growth of about 0.38% over the last decade. This modest recent increase aligns with national trends in affluent rural parishes, where high property values and appeal to commuters have stabilized or gently boosted numbers, though growth remains slower than in urban districts. The following table summarizes key census populations for Shere civil parish, highlighting the long-term trend of overall expansion from under 1,000 residents in the early 1800s to nearly 4,000 today:
YearPopulation
1801871
18511,403
19012,184
19513,816
19613,876
19713,705
20013,359
20113,630
20213,770
Data compiled from census records. Demographically, the 2021 census indicates a balanced distribution (approximately 48% male, 52% female) and an aging profile typical of rural , with 24.3% of residents aged 65 or older, underscoring trends toward an older population in areas like Shere where in-migration of retirees contributes to stability.

Social characteristics

Shere exhibits a predominantly homogeneous ethnic composition, with 96.4% of residents identifying as in the 2021 . Asian residents account for approximately 0.8%, mixed or multiple ethnic groups 2%, and other ethnic groups including , , and unspecified categories comprising the remainder at under 1% each. Similarly, 89.3% of the population was born in the , with 3.5% from other European countries and 7.2% from , Africa, or other regions. Religiously, remains the most common affiliation, reported by 56.1% of residents, followed by 36.7% stating no . Smaller groups include 0.5% Muslim, 0.4% Hindu, 0.6% Jewish, and negligible numbers identifying as Sikh, Buddhist, or other faiths. This distribution reflects a largely secularizing trend alongside traditional Christian roots in the village. The social structure of Shere is characterized by a professional and affluent demographic, with 24.85% of residents in professional occupations and 25.19% as managers or directors, according to 2021 data. levels are notably high, with 49.23% holding degree-level qualifications (Level 4 or above), compared to the average of 33.92%; only 9.95% have no qualifications. stands at a low 2.7%, and 74.17% of households own their homes outright or with a , indicating relative and low deprivation. Health outcomes are positive, with 56.88% reporting very good health. Community life in Shere emphasizes strong local ties and volunteerism, exemplified by historical initiatives like the 1938 support for Czech refugees and a 2020 COVID-19 mutual aid group. Regular events such as the Shere Open Gardens and church commemorations at St. James' foster social cohesion, while amenities including pubs, cafes, and sports facilities like tennis courts and bowling greens support everyday interactions. The village's picturesque setting and adequate outdoor spaces contribute to a close-knit, family-oriented atmosphere, though play areas for children are somewhat limited.

Economy and housing

Employment and industry

According to the 2021 , 55.79% of Shere residents aged 16 years and over were economically active and in , reflecting a stable local labour market in this rural village. The rate was notably low at 2.7%, below the national average, with 69.26% of those in work engaged in full-time and 30.74% in part-time roles. These figures underscore a with strong participation in the , supported by the village's proximity to larger economic hubs like . Occupational data from the same reveals a skew towards higher-skilled and managerial roles, indicative of an affluent demographic. Managers, directors, and senior officials comprised 25.19% of the employed , while occupations accounted for 24.85%. Associate professional and technical positions followed at 14.89%, with skilled trades at 9.44% and administrative and secretarial roles at 7.91%. Smaller shares were in caring, leisure, and other service occupations (5.97%), elementary occupations (4.85%), and process, plant, and machine operatives (2.31%). This distribution highlights a reliance on knowledge-based and service-sector rather than . The local economy in Shere centres on small-scale industries tied to its heritage and natural setting in the Surrey Hills . plays a key role, sustaining and retail businesses such as cafes, pubs, and shops that attract visitors to the village's historic charm and scenic walks. remains a minor but traditional component, with the partly agricultural landscape supporting limited farming activities. Historically, the parish was associated with and tanning industries, utilising local and resources, though these have diminished in favour of modern service-oriented enterprises.
Occupation CategoryPercentage of Employed Residents
Managers, Directors & Senior Officials25.19%
Professional Occupations24.85%
Associate Professional & Technical14.89%
Skilled Trades9.44%
Administrative & Secretarial7.91%
Caring, & Other Services5.97%
Elementary Occupations4.85%
Process, Plant & Machine Operatives2.31%

Housing and property

Shere's housing predominantly consists of historic buildings dating back to the , with a core of modest one- and two-storey structures on small plots featuring pitched, gabled roofs. The village includes timber-framed hall houses in Wealden style, and render properties, and some post-war low-density estates like Pathfields on larger plots. Local materials such as Bargate stone, handmade clay tiles, with noggin or flint infill, and orange multi-colored dominate the , contributing to the area's distinctive rural character. Designated as a conservation area since 1973, Shere imposes strict planning constraints to preserve its , including Article 4(2) Directions that control alterations to windows, chimneys, and front boundaries to prevent erosion of traditional features. Of the 61 listed buildings in the parish, many are residential, such as those designed by , emphasizing the need for new developments to match local scale, materials, and rooflines. Opportunities for infill development are limited due to the village's location in the Green Belt and , with pressures from traffic and parking threatening front gardens and historic walls. The property market in Shere reflects its affluent, rural appeal, with an overall average sale price of £837,188 over the last year ending September 2025, down 21% from the previous year and 21% from the 2022 peak of £1,061,685. Detached properties, which form the majority of sales, averaged £1,071,429, while homes sold for £663,000 and terraced properties for £645,000. These high values underscore Shere's desirability, though the market has softened amid broader economic trends. Housing tenure in the borough, which encompasses Shere, shows 66.3% of households owning their home outright or with a in , with 12.7% in social rented accommodation, reflecting a stable pattern from 2011. Occupancy levels indicate low overcrowding, with only 5.0% of households (including ) affected, and 30.9% featuring four or more bedrooms, aligning with the area's spacious, family-oriented dwellings. Shere's parish likely mirrors this high homeownership rate, given its of older, affluent residents. Recent efforts to address affordability include the Peaslake Farm project, a initiative approved in December 2021 for 8 affordable homes aimed at local needs through rental and shared ownership. Construction has been delayed by factors including , inflation, and site contamination, leading to the withdrawal of initial partners in ; revised plans for up to 12 homes are under review as of to ensure financial viability while respecting the site's environmental context. Such developments are rare in Shere, prioritizing community benefit over large-scale expansion.

Local government

Parish administration

Shere Parish Council is the lowest tier of local government serving the of Shere in the , , . Established under the Local Government Act 1894, it administers local affairs for an area encompassing the villages of Shere, Gomshall, Holmbury St. Mary, Peaslake, and part of Abinger Hammer, making it the largest parish by area in Borough. The council consists of 13 elected councillors, serving three wards: North Ward (Shere and Gomshall, with 7 councillors), South East Ward (Holmbury St. Mary, with 3 councillors), and South West Ward (Peaslake, with 3 councillors). Councillors are elected every four years, with the current term following the 2023 elections; key positions include the (Penny Tompkins) and Vice Chair (Mike Keeble). The council employs four staff members, led by the Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer, Suzanne Hoyland, who manages daily operations from the office at Tanyard Hall in Gomshall. Assistant clerks and a drop-in coordinator support administrative functions, including public engagement. Responsibilities include managing parish-owned assets such as Tanyard Hall, recreational grounds, play areas, and bus shelters, as well as contributing 50% to the maintenance of three cemeteries. As a statutory consultee, the council reviews planning applications through its Planning Committee, which meets every three to four weeks. It also represents local views to higher authorities like Guildford Borough Council (responsible for waste, planning, and leisure) and (overseeing highways, education, and ). The full council holds approximately 10 meetings annually, alongside committees for , and , general purposes, and ; all meetings are open to the public, who may comment during allocated times. In 2025, a Community Governance Review examined a proposal to separate Peaslake into its own but concluded with no changes on 31 July 2025, affirming the existing structure as effective and convenient following consultation under the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007. Residents can contact the council via the clerk at [email protected] or 01483 203431 for reporting issues or attending drop-in sessions.

Services and infrastructure

Shere benefits from a range of essential services typical of a rural village, with primary healthcare provided by the Shere Surgery & , a GP practice located on Gomshall Lane that offers general medical consultations, vaccinations, and minor procedures for residents of Shere and surrounding areas. The Shere and Local Villages (SALV) health trust, established in 1993, supplements these services through charitable support, including equipment provision (over £400,000 spent on items like ECG machines and scanners) and initiatives such as open evenings and funding to enhance access for vulnerable populations (over 8,000 patients served). For more specialized care, residents rely on facilities like Hospital in , approximately 7–10 miles away. Emergency services in Shere are coordinated through Surrey-wide providers, including Surrey Police for law enforcement, Surrey Fire and Rescue Service for firefighting and prevention, and South East Coast Ambulance Service for medical emergencies, all accessible via the national 999 system. The village's historic Old Fire Station now serves as a community landmark rather than an active facility, while the Shere Parish Council maintains a dedicated Emergency Plan to liaise with these services during incidents such as floods or power outages. Utilities in Shere are supplied by regional providers, with water and wastewater managed by , which handles supply, maintenance, and leak repairs across south-east . Electricity distribution falls under , responsible for the local grid and outage responses, while gas is provided by SGN; residents can report issues via national helplines like 105 for electricity emergencies. Broadband infrastructure has seen recent improvements through Shere Internet, a local provider offering full fibre optic connections up to 1 Gbps, addressing previous rural connectivity challenges in the GU5 postcode area. Community infrastructure includes the Shere Village Hall, a multi-purpose venue with facilities for events, meetings, and the Shere Library, which operates limited hours (Mondays 2:30-4:00 pm and Fridays 10:30 am-12:00 pm) offering book loans and local history resources. The Shere Post Office on Middle Street provides postal, banking, and government services, serving as a vital hub for daily needs. Recreational amenities feature the Shere Club, an outdoor lido dating back to , open seasonally for public swimming, and the Shere Recreation Ground, which hosts sports like , , , and football, along with a skate ramp. Ongoing infrastructure enhancements include the pedestrianisation of The Square, a central village , funded by to improve safety and accessibility; initiated in phases since 2023, it remains experimental as of 2025 with ongoing consultations and measures like planters introduced in March 2025.

Education

Schools and learning facilities

Shere is primarily served by Shere CofE Aided Infant School and Nursery, a voluntary aided school for children aged 2 to 7 years. Located on Gomshall Lane in the village center, the school enrolls around 50 pupils, with 6% eligible for free school meals, and operates nursery classes alongside Reception through Year 2. It follows a holistic curriculum that prioritizes natural , , play, and , incorporating , , and dialogue to foster independent thinking. A key feature is its Forest School programme, utilizing outdoor spaces including gardens on site and The Wilderness Site at nearby Clandon Park for nature-based learning. Founded nearly 200 years ago in 1826 by local philanthropists Laura Lomax and Louisa Bray, the school maintains strong community ties, serving families from Shere, , Gomshall, and surrounding areas while emphasizing values of friendship and kindness. It is federated with Clandon C of E School, allowing shared resources and governance. Secondary education for older pupils from Shere is provided by schools in nearby towns within the area, such as in Effingham or The Ashcombe School in , based on admissions criteria including distance and catchment. These institutions offer comprehensive secondary provision up to age 16, with options for at sixth forms or colleges in . Beyond formal schooling, the Shere Community Link Library serves as a key learning facility, housed in Shere Village Hall. Established as part of 's network of smaller community libraries, it provides access to physical books, e-books, audiobooks, and resources, supporting , family , and local needs. The library operates on limited hours—Monday 2:30–4:00 p.m. and Friday 10:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.—and facilitates community events focused on skills development and reading promotion. Membership is free, enabling borrowing privileges across the county's 52 libraries.

Historical education

Prior to the establishment of a formal village school in the mid-19th century, education in Shere was primarily provided through informal dame schools operated by local women. These small, private institutions catered to young children from working-class families, focusing on basic , , and moral instruction. Notable examples include those run by Miss Louisa Bray of Shere and Miss Laura Lomax of nearby Netley, who supplemented their efforts with led by the local , Mr. Handforth, in a Sunday school setting. In 1842, Louisa Bray initiated the construction of Shere's first dedicated village , a National School affiliated with the , to address the limitations of dame schools and provide structured education for the growing population. The project was funded by subscriptions, including £100 from Laura Lomax and £40 from Louisa Bray herself, with land donated by Bray, stone from local quarries, and timber from Lomax's estate. The was laid on 25 May 1842 amid community celebration, marked by the ringing of church bells, and the building opened shortly thereafter as a mixed weekday under the supervision of a master and mistress. Initially divided into infant and mixed departments, it served children from ages 3 to 12, emphasizing reading, writing, arithmetic, and religious instruction in line with National Society guidelines. The school's curriculum evolved to meet community needs throughout the . By 1856, evening classes were introduced for older pupils and adults, taught by Mr. Evershed from nearby Gomshall, focusing on advanced reading and writing skills. In the 1880s, a dedicated "Baby Class" for children aged 3 and above operated from 1884 to 1905, while the 1890s saw the addition of instruction to prepare students for clerical work. By its 50th anniversary in 1892, enrollment had reached 259 pupils, reflecting the school's central role in village life and its expansion to include practical skills alongside core academics. Architectural features, such as an donated by Edmund Lomax, underscored the philanthropic contributions of local landowners. In the early , Shere National School adapted to national reforms, transitioning under the Education Act of 1902 to local authority oversight while retaining its voluntary aided status. By 1948, it had reorganized as Shere First School, emphasizing early years and eventually becoming the Shere and Nursery School, focusing on children up to age 7. This shift mirrored broader trends in toward specialized infant schooling, with log books documenting attendance, changes, and community events like school treats and inspections. Beyond the village center, historical education efforts extended to marginalized communities in the Shere parish area. In 1926, the Hurtwood Gypsy School opened nearby in the Hurtwood region—between Shere, Farley Green, and Ewhurst—as England's first dedicated school for Romani children, operating under the Education Committee until its closure in 1933. Serving 60-70 children during the day and adults in evening classes, it prioritized and basic , though progress in reading was noted as gradual due to cultural and mobility factors. This initiative highlighted early attempts at inclusive in rural .

Landmarks

St James' Church

St James' Church in Shere is a medieval parish church of the Church of England, serving as a central landmark in the village since its construction around 1190, when it replaced an earlier Saxon church recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. The structure exemplifies Transitional Early English Gothic architecture, with surviving elements from the original nave, tower, and chancel. Its broach spire, erected between 1213 and 1300, was originally covered in cedar shingles and re-shingled with oak in 2000 to preserve its form. The church underwent significant restoration in 1895 under architect S. Weatherley, addressing Victorian-era wear while retaining its historic fabric. The building's walls incorporate a diverse array of materials, including ironstone rubble, Bargate stone, flint, clunch, reused Roman tiles, Caen stone from Normandy, and Tudor brick, reflecting centuries of adaptation and repair. A notable Norman feature is the south porch of wood and brick, which shelters a 12th-century doorway and a 13th-century oak door. Inside, the church boasts a Purbeck marble font from circa 1200, adorned with foliate capitals and scallop carvings, and a massive oak Crusader alms chest from the same period, secured with three locks to collect funds for the Holy Land. Other highlights include a 14th-century Madonna and Child statuette recovered in 1886, fragments of medieval stained glass in the east window, and brass memorial plaques in the chancel dating to 1412 and the 15th–16th centuries, such as those for John, Lord Audley (d. 1491), and the wife of John Redford. The chancel fittings were renewed in 1956 by Louis Osman. The lych gate, designed in 1902 by Edwin Lutyens, adds a Arts and Crafts elegance to the approach. A unique historical element is the anchorite cell embedded in the north chancel wall, featuring a 14th-century squint and quatrefoil window that allowed the occupant to view the altar. In 1329, Christine Carpenter was enclosed here as an anchoress, vowing a life of and , but she left after three years; upon returning in 1332, she was permitted to exit periodically as . The church has also gained modern recognition through its appearances in films, including (2006) and (2004).

Other historic buildings

Shere's historic extends beyond its church to encompass a rich array of timber-framed houses, public buildings, and vernacular structures, many dating from the medieval and early modern periods. The village conservation area, designated on 31 July 1973, protects 61 listed buildings of special architectural or historic interest, contributing to Shere's picturesque, unspoiled character shaped by its location in the Tillingbourne Valley. These structures often feature Wealden-style framing with jettied upper stories and thatched or tiled roofs, reflecting traditional building practices. Among the most prominent is The White Horse Public House on Middle Street, a Grade II listed timber-framed open originating around 1450 and converted to an inn in the late . Its 20th-century mock-timbered facade, added circa 1923, enhances its vernacular appeal while preserving the original core. Nearby, the Grade II listed Old Fire Station, built in 1885, originally accommodated horse-drawn fire engines and exemplifies Victorian utilitarian architecture; it now serves as public conveniences. The Forge, also on Middle Street and designed by circa 1914, represents an early 20th-century intervention in the village's historic fabric, blending Arts and Crafts influences with local traditions. Further examples include the Grade II listed and Mumfords on Middle Street, a 17th-century shopfront adapted for commercial use, and the timber-framed High House Farm Granary on Church Lane, constructed in 1550 as part of a surviving farmstead. The Shere Museum, housed in the original Parish Hall on Gomshall Lane built in 1898 to mark Queen Victoria's , preserves artifacts of local rural life and serves as a community hub. Along Upper and Lower Streets, clusters of Grade II listed cottages, such as 1 and 2 Lower Street () and 1-4 Malthouse Cottages (), illustrate the dense, pattern typical of medieval villages.

Transport

Road access

Shere is primarily accessed by road via the A25, a major east-west trunk road connecting to the west and to the east, situated within the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The village lies approximately 0.5 miles south of the A25, with entry points from local roads such as Shere Road (A25) and Gomshall Lane. From the west, drivers from follow the A25 for about 6 miles (12 minutes), turning right shortly after passing the Silent Pool landmark onto the B2120 toward Shere. From the east, access is via the A25 from , approximately 5 miles (10 minutes), exiting south near Abinger Hammer. Travel from to Shere covers roughly 30 miles (48 km) and typically takes 1 hour by car, often via the southbound to the A25, though times vary with traffic. The route passes through the M25 orbital motorway if approaching from the north, but direct access avoids it for efficiency. Narrow village lanes, such as and , require careful driving due to their historic character and occasional pedestrian congestion. Public parking in Shere is available at the main car park on London Lane, at the eastern end of Upper Street, offering around 90 spaces near St. James' Church and the village center, with the first 30 minutes free and then £1 per hour from 9am to 6pm daily (except Day). Accessible parking spaces are available for blue badge holders, though charges apply after the initial 30-minute free period, along with shorter-term options at the recreation ground. The car park is a short walk from key amenities, and overflow may be found along designated roadside areas during peak times, though visitors are advised to arrive early to secure spots.

Public transport

Public transport in Shere is primarily provided by bus services, as the village lacks a railway station. The main routes connect Shere to nearby towns such as , , , and Redhill, operated by Compass Bus and Metrobus. These services facilitate access to larger transport hubs for onward rail connections. Compass Bus route 32 runs between and Redhill, passing through Shere via Gomshall and , with stops at key village locations including the Village Hall and Medical Centre. This hourly service operates daily, providing links to (approximately 6 miles away) and Dorking station (about 5 miles away). Route 25, also operated by Compass Bus, connects Guildford to Cranleigh via Shere, Gomshall, and Peaslake, stopping at the Village Hall and Upper Lodge in the village. It offers several daily journeys, supporting travel to Guildford for rail services on the South Western Railway network. Metrobus route 22 provides a circular service from Dorking to Crawley via Shere and Holmbury St Mary, with stops at Shere Village Hall. This route, running several times a day, connects to Dorking's multiple railway stations on the North Downs Line and Thameslink services. The nearest railway station to Shere is Gomshall, approximately 1 mile north, on the North Downs Line between and Redhill, served by Great Western Railway trains. Other accessible stations include Chilworth (3 miles west) on the to line and Dorking Main (5 miles southeast) with connections to Victoria and Waterloo. Bus routes 32 and 25 provide feeder services to these stations, enabling integration with the network. Community transport options, such as Surrey Connect's demand-responsive services, supplement scheduled buses for residents in rural areas like Shere, offering door-to-door travel to medical appointments and shops upon booking. These are operated by in partnership with local providers. Additionally, the WASP Community Bus provides local demand-responsive services for residents of Shere, Abinger, and Wotton, including trips to , , and local amenities, bookable in advance.

Culture and society

Notable residents

Shere has been home to several notable figures throughout its history, particularly in the fields of arts, science, and . Sir Henry Cole (1808–1882), a prominent civil servant and inventor, resided at Seaforth Cottage in Shere. He is best known for commissioning the world's first commercial in 1843 and co-designing the , the first adhesive issued in Britain; he later served as the inaugural director of the . Lady Arthur Russell (1836–1910), philanthropist and wife of Liberal politician Lord Arthur Russell, lived in the village at a house on Hook Lane. She constructed Shere's open-air swimming pool in 1875 for her family and donated it to the community in 1891. Flight Lieutenant John Vere Hopgood (1918–1943), an RAF pilot who grew up in Shere, earned the Distinguished Flying Cross for his service during . He participated in the famous Dambusters Raid as second-in-command of No. 617 Squadron, piloting the aircraft M-Mother before it was shot down over . The village also maintains strong ties to the family of economist Thomas Robert Malthus (1766–1834), whose sisters and nieces, including Louisa Bray (1800–1862), resided in Shere and owned properties such as Pound House. Malthus himself served as curate at nearby Wotton, influencing local intellectual circles. In the literary sphere, novelist William Makepeace Thackeray (1811–1863) stayed in Shere while visiting Cole, during which he wrote portions of his novel The Virginians. Shere has gained prominence in film and television as a filming location, often representing idyllic English countryside settings. The village featured prominently in the 2006 , directed by , where several key scenes were shot, including those around the protagonist Iris's rose-covered cottage on Lower Street and walks through the village streets. The film, starring , , , and , grossed over $205 million worldwide and has drawn tourists to Shere annually, particularly during the holiday season, boosting local businesses like the pub, which appears in the movie. In (2004), the sequel to the 2001 hit, Shere served as the backdrop for the wedding scene at St James' Church, with additional village shots capturing its quaint charm. The production, starring , , and , highlighted the church's historic architecture, contributing to the film's romantic narrative. More recent television appearances include the crime drama episode "Close to Home" (2020), where scenes were filmed at the village ford, The Square, and St James' Church, portraying tense investigative moments in the rural setting. The sitcom (2020), starring and , also shot exterior scenes in Shere, using its residential lanes to depict suburban family life. Additionally, the biographical film (2021), about author and starring and , filmed on Lower Street, evoking mid-20th-century English village aesthetics. In literature, Shere inspired the historical novel Anchoress of Shere (2000) by Paul Moorcraft, which fictionalizes the 14th-century story of Christine Carpenter, a real anchoress walled up at St James' Church, blending medieval history with thriller elements. The book draws on local parish records and has been noted for its atmospheric depiction of the village's medieval heritage.

Community events and traditions

Shere's events emphasize local participation and for charities, reflecting the village's close-knit rural character. The annual Shere Open Gardens event, held on the last in , invites visitors to explore over 20 private gardens, historic sites like St James' Church, and the Shere Museum, with proceeds supporting local good causes. Established as a longstanding , this summer has raised thousands of pounds annually through ticket sales, fostering pride in the village's picturesque landscapes. A cherished winter is Carols in the Square, an outdoor gathering on around the central oak tree in Shere's village square, where residents and visitors sing festive carols illuminated by candlelight and local decorations. Organized by the and community volunteers, this free event draws crowds for its communal spirit and has been a fixture for decades, often accompanied by hot drinks from nearby pubs. Year-round activities include monthly talks and outings hosted by the Shere Museum, held on the second Tuesday at Shere Village Hall, covering local history and heritage topics to engage residents and history enthusiasts. The not-for-profit Shere Cinema, operating from the village hall, screens films biweekly, with profits directed to local charities and promoting social gatherings. Seasonal fairs, such as the Surrey Villages Art & Craft Christmas Fair in November and the Shere Craft Fair in July, showcase local artisans and support community initiatives at Shere Hall. These events, alongside social groups like the Villagers' monthly meetings for walks, workshops, and charity talks, sustain Shere's vibrant traditions of collaboration and cultural preservation.

References

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