Elstead & Milford

Elstead sits at the edge of lowland heath and mixed woodland, with Thursley Common National Nature Reserve immediately to the west. The village is linked by lanes and footpaths to surrounding farms and copses. Milford lies a short distance east on the River Wey; the river passes through the village and shapes its riverside layout. Milford station on the Portsmouth Direct Line provides straightforward rail links to London and Portsmouth, and the rail corridor marks a clear route through the valley between the two settlements.

Local life is organised around shops, pubs, primary schools and village halls. Small businesses and light industry are concentrated near Milford’s high street and station area. The riverbank and adjoining towpaths are used for walks and informal angling, while the heaths and bogs of Thursley attract birdwatching and conservation activity. Community groups run events on village greens and in halls, and volunteers work with local authorities on habitat management. Housing sits along lanes and around village centres, with countryside access immediately beyond the last rows of houses.