The little town straddling three counties people wrongly think is in Surrey

Blackwater, a small town that sits on the borders of three counties, is often mistaken as part of Surrey. Despite being located in the north-eastern region of Hampshire, many consider it to be a part of Camberley.

The town, separated only by The Meadows roundabout, boasts a train station, leisure centre and two budget supermarkets – Lidl and Aldi.

The town’s unique location allows it to straddle three counties – Hampshire, Surrey, and Berkshire. Its proximity to both the M3 and M4, as well as the A30 which runs from Basingstoke to Staines, adds to the confusion about whether Blackwater belongs to Surrey or Hampshire.

Interestingly, according to Royal Mail, its post office location is listed as London Road, Blackwater, Camberley, Surrey, GU17 9AA. However, services such as schools, transport, social care and planning are managed by Hampshire County Council.

Blackwater comprises three villages – Frogmore, Darby Green and Hawley. Hart District Council oversees rubbish collection and recycling, housing and planning applications for these areas. According to the 2011 census, Blackwater has a population of around 4,500 residents. The village attracts a diverse range of people, including families, retirees, and professionals commuting to nearby cities like London and Reading.

The River Blackwater flows through the town, providing beautiful walking routes like Hawley Meadows and Shepherd Meadows.

Hawley Meadows, a floodplain and a Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace, offers a tranquil setting for strolls, runs, cycle rides or dog walks.

The Blackwater Valley Path, a 23-mile long-distance trail, offers ample opportunities for hiking and cycling enthusiasts.

Blackwater boasts a wide variety of housing options, from charming cottages to modern developments. The village has a well-stocked convenience store, a post office, and several pubs and restaurants, catering to the daily needs of residents.

Properties in Blackwater had an overall average price of £403,024 over the last year, according to RightMove. The majority of sales in Blackwater during the last year were terraced properties, selling for an average price of £347,133. Semi-detached properties sold for an average of £414,440, with detached properties fetching £551,100.

Overall, sold prices in Blackwater over the last year were 6% down on the previous year and 2% down on the 2021 peak of £410,635.

Families in Blackwater have access to excellent educational facilities, including Blackwater Church of England Primary School and the highly regarded Yateley School for secondary education.

There is also a great pub. The Ely in Blackwater is surrounded by the common and is a popular spot for dog walkers. It describes itself as: “A warm & welcoming country pub offering quality pub classics and seasonal chef’s specials.”

Blackwater is well-connected to major towns and cities in the region. The village has its own railway station, providing direct links to London Waterloo, Reading, and Guildford. Additionally, the M3 motorway is easily accessible, making Blackwater an ideal location for commuters.

Blackwater offers a peaceful and idyllic setting for those seeking a respite from the fast-paced urban lifestyle. With its excellent amenities, strong community spirit, and convenient transportation links, Blackwater has become a desirable location for individuals and families alike.