Surrey's Cobham and Oxshott: The Premier League Stars' Luxurious Retreat

In recent years, the picturesque villages of Cobham and Oxshott in Surrey have garnered the moniker 'Beverly Hills of Britain,' and it's not hard to see why. With their luxurious lifestyle offerings, these communities have become a haven for Premier League footballers and other celebrities, transforming them into some of the most desirable and expensive locations in the UK. The narrative began in 2005 when Chelsea Football Club relocated its training ground to Cobham, just a short drive from the high street. This strategic move set off a seismic shift in the local real estate market, as footballers flocked to the area, drawn by the allure of spacious gated mansions, high-end amenities, and a community that has become synonymous with wealth and fame. Over the years, the average house price in Cobham has more than doubled, skyrocketing from around £600,000 to over £1.2 million, with luxury properties in Oxshott reaching even higher figures. Life in Cobham and Oxshott offers an enviable lifestyle that goes beyond mere real estate. Residents enjoy access to exclusive private schools, upscale restaurants, and a plethora of wellness options, such as Pilates and yoga studios. Local establishments like Grappelli, an Italian restaurant, attract a star-studded clientele, ensuring that footballers often mingle with familiar faces. The area's charm lies in its community feel, where even the most famous names can enjoy a casual coffee or a meal without excessive fanfare. Trevor Kearney, founder of The Private Office Real Estate, has witnessed firsthand the transformation of the area. “When Chelsea arrived at Cobham, there was a mandate that the players need to live within a two-and-a-half-mile radius of the training ground,” Kearney explains. “This created a new breed of buyer, injecting wealth and fame into the area. Cobham didn’t just change; it turbo-fuelled the market.” Indeed, it's not just Chelsea players who have made Cobham and Oxshott their home. Footballers from other clubs, including those based in north London, have also chosen to settle in the area, leading to a burgeoning community of athletes. Kearney estimates that around 100 footballers now reside in this part of Surrey, making it a hub of elite sporting talent. The appeal of these villages is not solely rooted in luxury but also in safety and security, a concern for many high-profile individuals. Footballers are often targeted by criminals, which has led to a demand for properties equipped with advanced security features. Safe rooms, panic buttons, and CCTV systems are becoming standard, as players seek to create a home environment that allows them to live normal lives. The local community has largely adapted to the presence of these stars, providing a level of anonymity that many players cherish. Yet, this idyllic lifestyle comes with challenges. High-profile burglaries, including incidents involving Chelsea’s Raheem Sterling and John Terry, have highlighted the risks that accompany fame. In response, security measures have become paramount, with many players opting for properties that not only offer spacious living but also the peace of mind that comes from enhanced security systems. As Cobham and Oxshott continue to thrive as prestigious locales for the rich and famous, the blend of luxury living and a tight-knit community paints a picture of a modern-day haven. While the UK capital may offer the bright lights of London, these Surrey villages provide a serene, upscale alternative where celebrities—be they footballers or tennis stars—can escape the chaos and build a life that feels both exclusive and familiar. In this charming slice of England, it's not uncommon for a Premier League star to blend in among locals, proving that in the 'Beverly Hills of Britain,' they can enjoy a taste of normalcy amid a life of extraordinary fame.