Chobham is a medium-size village, with a population of about 5000, located in the N.W. corner of Surrey in south-east England. Surrounded by heathland, the village has always been an isolated community. When the railways were developed in the last century, the main lines went north and south of the village, passing through the nearby then smaller villages of Sunningdale and Woking. Thus Chobham has remained largely undeveloped whilst Woking has grown into the large town it is today.
The history of Chobham stretches back to before Domesday, being first recorded in the 7th century, during Saxon times. It has been a relatively prosperous village, especially for its yeoman farmers. During the period of great redevelopment which swept S.E. England in the 16th century, many fine farmhouses were built in Chobham, a large number of which survive today. Consequently, a wealth of beautiful old houses and cottages may be seen whichever road or lane is explored.
Chobham lies within the Metropolitan Green Belt and the village centre has been designated a conservation area. Great efforts have been made to resist 'modern' over-development and urban sprawl.
Two small rivers flow through the village - the Mill Bourne and the Bourne - towards their confluence about a mile to the east and are flanked by pleasant wide water meadows. Innumerable footpaths, bridleways and curiously named lanes meander through the surrounding countryside. The nearby Chobham and Horsell Commons provide 'air and exercise' for both locals and visitors alike. The wide open heaths have been particularly favoured by horse riders and Chobham has become a well-known equestrian centre.