We regard our historic market town as a place of special qualities. Others seem to agree as visitors to Farnham increase and new residents take the opportunity to relocate to this western fringe of Surrey, with its excellent transport links. However continued development brings fresh challenges if we are to ensure the essential character of the town is maintained. A character derived, for example, from the Castle and Park and the wide sweep of Castle Street. And the old streets of the town centre with the many Georgian buildings to the variety of its green spaces such as the undisturbed river meadows. These qualities, amongst others, surely make Farnham a place deserving of special care. Promoting such care is at the heart of the Society’s purpose.

In 1972 most of the town centre was designated an Outstanding Conservation Area. However outside of the centre, its residential ‘suburbs’ and villages and overall rural surroundings as well as the commercial zones all contribute to making Farnham the place it is today. More than this built environment there are the stories, past and present, about notable Farnham personalities from historic figures like William Cobbett to sport stars like Mike Hawthorn and Jonny Wilkinson in more modern times, to name just a few. All these aspects of Farnham’s heritage make it a rather special town. A place to enjoy. A place to visit. A great place to live.