Surrey
WELCOME TO Surrey
Province Overview
Guildford
1,663 km2
1.2 million
English
Popular
Geography and Tourist Attractions
Information about the province's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.
The North Downs Way
RHS Garden Wisley
Windsor Great Park
Political
Economy and Government
Surrey is one of the most prosperous counties in England, with a diverse and growing economy. The county is home to a number of major businesses and industries, including technology, pharmaceuticals, and financial services. Guildford, the county town, is a major center for business and commerce, with many companies choosing to locate their headquarters there. The county is also home to a number of science and research parks, including Surrey Research Park and the University of Surrey's Innovation Park.
Surrey is governed by a two-tier system, with Surrey County Council responsible for services such as education, transport, and social care, and eleven district and borough councils responsible for services such as waste collection, housing, and planning. The county is represented in Parliament by twelve Members of Parliament (MPs), each representing a different constituency. The current government is a Conservative administration, with the party holding a majority of seats in both the county council and the district and borough councils.
Overall, Surrey's strong economy and effective government make it an attractive place to live, work, and do business.
History
History and Culture
Surrey has a rich history and culture, dating back thousands of years. The county has been inhabited since the Neolithic era, with evidence of ancient settlements and monuments such as the Devil's Punch Bowl and the Iron Age hill fort at St. Ann's Hill. In medieval times, Surrey was an important center of trade and commerce, with market towns such as Guildford and Kingston-upon-Thames growing in prominence.
The county is also home to a number of historic landmarks and cultural institutions, such as the Tudor palace of Hampton Court and the Watts Gallery, which houses the works of the Victorian artist G.F. Watts. Surrey is also famous for its association with the arts and literature, with notable writers such as Lewis Carroll, Aldous Huxley, and H.G. Wells all having lived in the county at some point.
Surrey's diverse population has also contributed to its vibrant cultural scene, with communities from around the world bringing their own traditions and customs to the county. Today, Surrey is a dynamic and cosmopolitan place, with a thriving arts and culture sector and a rich history that is celebrated and preserved for future generations.