Wonderful Weybridge
I grew up within striking distance of Weybridge and therefore I have history! My first job was in Weybridge and my son went to school in Weybridge. In the early ’90’s I had a hand in designing and building a house on the very outskirts of Weybridge.
Even now I live within in a short distance of this town and it remains very close to my heart.
When visiting towards the end of last year I was pleased to see how prosperous it was looking. Unlike many towns most of the shops on the High Street are occupied and there is a good mix of independents and well-known names.
If, like me, you have an interest in home interiors one of the shining stars on the High Street is The Home Library. A relative newcomer to this part of the world it stocks a vast range of lighting, furniture, and soft furnishings. It actually stocks some Laura Ashley products which I found reassuring as their own store closed down a year or so ago.
Neptune is another fave of mine. When you enter their showroom it’s like stepping through the doors of the wardrobe in The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe. You enter a whole new world which seems to go on forever.
If you’re looking to accessorise your home look no further than the Whitewall Gallery and Bluebell 33. Although, at the opposite end of the spectrum to one another, both stock wall art that will add another dimension to your nest.
Whitewall Gallery Bluebell 33
Whilst Whitewall is on the High Street, Bluebell 33 is tucked away on Baker Street. Don’t let that put you off though as Baker Street is well worth a visit. Here you will find two interior specialists, Hill House Interiors and Wills Interiors, several high-end clothing boutiques, Weybridge Audio, Simply Cakes, and a lovely mix of independent eateries. It’s definitely the place to grab a light lunch or a hot drink.
Hill House Interiors Weybridge Audio
If you know your way around you can actually cut back through from Baker Street to the High Street via Springfield Lane. This makes a nice circular walk passing some lovely quaint cottages on your way. As you exit Springfield Lane you will find one of my favourite Pizza Express restaurants on your right and the Best Western Ship Hotel across the road to your left. Hidden alongside the hotel, in Ship Yard, is The Kitchen Shop which I believe has been in existence since the ’70’s. Here you will find this tiny shop packed to the gills with every type of kitchen gadget and dining implement that you could possibly wish for.
Pizza Express The Ship Hotel
Heading back up the High Street you will pass Phase Eight, Sweaty Betty, Weybridge Sports, Caffé Nero, Waterstones and Valentina Deli & Kitchen Coffee Roastery, to name but a few. On the opposite side of the road names of note are Boots, Space NK, The Sam Beare Hospice Bookshop, and W.H. Smith.
Valentina café Valentina deli
If you continue on the High Street, past the bottom end of Baker Street, you will automatically arrive in Church Street. If you continue on past the Old Rectory and St. James’ Church on your left you will come across another smaller parade of shops. Majestic Wine dominates the righthand side of the road but if you continue past here to what is known locally as ‘the quadrant’ you will find a number of well-known, and lesser known, restaurants.
The Old Rectory St. James’ Church
If you still have an appetite for adventure follow Church Street round into Bridge Street. Apart from a fab pub on the left, The Queen’s Head, opposite there is Wooden Heart Kitchens, floor specialist Mandarin Stone, and fresh fish shop Fish’d.
Despite Weybridge being so well populated with interesting shops and eateries parking is relatively easy and inexpensive. There are two pay and display car parks, short-term road side spaces, and Morrisons supermarket. One word of warning though! I have learnt through bitter personal experience that there is a time limit on Morrisons and the fine hefty if you outstay your welcome. BE WARNED!
I feel that this is quite an extensive account of this tiny town but I would be here all day if I were to mention every single business. (Apologies if you’ve not been included.) As well as the many and varied retail therapy opportunities there are cultural experiences to enjoy as well. Check out Brooklands Museum, Mercedes Benz World, and the Huf Haus show house. Suffice to say, if you are in the area, Weybridge is definitely worth a visit and it’s only a stone’s throw away from Junction 11 of the M25.
See you soon?
Carolyn x
Useful Links
📸 Carolyn Hayter
