Mortgage Advice in Greatham: Property, Schools & Local Area Guide

That’s Family Finance
Property & Mortgage Guide — 2026/27 edition

Greatham

Hampshire

A buyer’s guide to Greatham — property prices and council tax, schools and their real Ofsted position, transport, healthcare, flood risk, the local lending realities, and the questions worth asking before you commit.

What’s inside
  • Quick Answers
  • Prices
  • Market
  • Why Greatham
  • Transport
  • Schools
  • Police & Fire
  • Areas
  • Healthcare
  • Flood
  • History
  • Beyond the Mortgage
  • FAQs

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That’s Family Finance is an FCA-regulated protection adviser (life insurance, critical illness cover and income protection). We do not arrange mortgages ourselves — we introduce you to carefully selected, award-winning, FCA-regulated mortgage advisers, with no obligation.

Figures in this guide were correct when it was produced and do change. Always verify council tax with the local council, school ratings with Ofsted and journey times with the operator before you rely on them. This guide is information, not financial or mortgage advice.

Hampshire Property & Mortgage Guide • 18 min read • Greatham • Updated July 2026

Mortgage Advice in Greatham: Property, Schools & Local Area Guide

Whether you're buying your first home in Greatham, remortgaging, upsizing or simply researching this East Hampshire village — a small, sought-after commuter village in the valley of the River Rother, just off the A3 on the edge of the South Downs National Park and the Woolmer Forest heaths, between Liss, Petersfield and Whitehill & Bordon — this guide covers what buyers and homeowners actually want to know.

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Quick answers about Greatham

Click any question to expand the full detail and sources.

Is Greatham a good place to live?
Yes — a sought-after East Hampshire village.

Yes — Greatham is a sought-after small village in East Hampshire (GU33), in the beautiful valley of the River Rother, just off the A3 on the edge of the South Downs National Park and the Woolmer Forest heaths, between Liss to the south and Whitehill & Bordon to the north. It offers a genuine village feel — a parish church, a village hall and recreation ground, and open countryside all around — with fast A3 access and nearby stations at Liss, Liphook and Petersfield for the commute. The main things to weigh are that it is small and sought-after (so not cheap and limited in supply), that there is no station in the village itself, and a River Rother flood-risk consideration in low-lying and riverside parts.

Sources: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greatham,_Hampshire | rightmove.co.uk — Greatham

Is Greatham expensive?
Sought-after — often £375,000–£700,000.

Greatham is a sought-after East Hampshire commuter village where prices are above the national average, with overall values often in the region of £375,000 to £700,000; smaller and older village homes offer the more accessible ways in, while larger detached, period and country homes run well beyond. Its village setting, the countryside on the edge of the South Downs, and its fast A3 access and nearby direct-London stations all support demand, and supply is limited in a small village. Always verify current prices via Land Registry data or independent valuation advice for the exact property.

Sources: rightmove.co.uk — Greatham | landregistry.data.gov.uk

Does Greatham have a railway station?
No — nearest Liss, Liphook & Petersfield.

No — Greatham does not have its own station, but it is well placed for the railway: Liss, Liphook and Petersfield stations are all within a short drive on the Portsmouth Direct line, with direct trains to London Waterloo, Guildford and Portsmouth. For drivers, the A3 runs right past the village — north for Guildford, the M25 and London, south for Petersfield and Portsmouth. Because the village has no station, a car is genuinely useful here. Always check current timetables before relying on a specific journey.

Sources: southwesternrailway.com

What is Greatham known for?
Its Rother-valley village setting & Le Court.

Greatham is known for its setting — a small, sought-after village in the valley of the River Rother, on the edge of the South Downs National Park and the Woolmer Forest heaths, with its parish church of St John the Baptist at its heart. It is known too for Le Court, a Leonard Cheshire disability home on its edge that was the very first Cheshire Home, founded by the war hero and philanthropist Leonard Cheshire VC in 1948 — a genuinely distinctive piece of local heritage. The open countryside, the walking on the heaths and the downs, and the fast A3 access all add to its appeal.

Sources: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greatham,_Hampshire

Where is the nearest A&E to Greatham?
Portsmouth / Guildford / Frimley (a drive).

There is no major hospital in the village; the nearest 24-hour A&E departments are at Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth, the Royal Surrey County Hospital in Guildford and Frimley Park Hospital, with the Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester also within a drive — each some way off by road. There is GP provision in the surrounding area (around Liss, Petersfield and Bordon). As NHS services can be reconfigured and travel times vary, always confirm the nearest current A&E and the arrangements directly with the NHS.

Sources: porthosp.nhs.uk


Is Greatham right for you?

Every town suits some buyers better than others — here is how Greatham rates for the people who most often buy here, and why.

Buyer type Rating Why
Families ★★★★☆ Greatham Primary rated Good, Bohunt and Petersfield secondaries within reach, and countryside on the doorstep.
Country & outdoors lovers ★★★★★ On the edge of the South Downs National Park and the Woolmer Forest heaths — superb walking country.
Commuters ★★★☆☆ No village station, but Liss, Liphook and Petersfield (direct London Waterloo) are a short drive, with the A3 past the village.
Downsizers ★★★★☆ A small, close village community in a beautiful rural setting, though a car is essential.
First-time buyers ★★☆☆☆ A sought-after village where prices sit above the national average.
The short version: Greatham suits families and outdoors lovers who want a quiet South Downs village and can drive to a station; first-time buyers face above-average prices and there is no station in the village itself.

An honest, at-a-glance summary of what Greatham does brilliantly — and what to weigh carefully — before you commit.

Great if you want…
A sought-after East Hampshire village in the Rother valley on the edge of the South Downs National Park and the Woolmer Forest heaths — a village feel, open countryside on the doorstep, fast A3 access and nearby direct-London stations at Liss, Liphook and Petersfield.
Think carefully if…
You want an affordable entry (it is a small, sought-after village), you need a station in the village itself (you drive to Liss, Liphook or Petersfield), or you're buying near the River Rother without checking flood risk.
Best suited to
Families and professionals wanting a countryside village near Petersfield and the South Downs, commuters using the A3 or the nearby stations, and buyers who love walking, the heaths and the downs, and a quieter rural life within reach of the coast and London.

Greatham at a glance

The key facts buyers ask us about most, in one place.

Fact Detail
County & councils Hampshire (two-tier): Hampshire County Council & East Hampshire District Council
Postcode district GU33
Approx. character A small, sought-after East Hampshire village on the edge of the South Downs
Average house price Above average — often £375,000–£700,000; larger period & country homes beyond; sources vary
Railway No village station — nearest Liss, Liphook & Petersfield (direct London Waterloo)
Nearest A&E Portsmouth / Guildford / Frimley / Winchester (a drive) — verify with NHS
Schools Hampshire mostly non-selective; primary/church options around Greatham/Liss/Bordon; secondaries in Bordon & Petersfield
Known for Its Rother-valley setting, the South Downs & Woolmer Forest heaths, and Le Court (the first Cheshire Home)
Population A small rural village — a few hundred households
Roads The A3 runs past the village; the A31 & M25 within reach to the north
Green space The South Downs National Park, the Woolmer Forest heaths & the River Rother countryside
Council tax (Band D) £2,303.82 for 2026/27 (Greatham parish; verified) — confirm your exact band

Property prices & council tax in Greatham

Greatham is a sought-after East Hampshire commuter village where prices are above the national average, reflecting its village setting, the countryside on the edge of the South Downs, and its fast A3 access and nearby direct-London stations. It offers smaller and older village homes, popular family houses and some newer homes, and larger detached, period and country properties. Published figures vary by property and area, and a small village sees limited transactions, so treat the ranges below as a broad guide and verify for the exact home.

Property type / area Typical position in the market Who it suits
Smaller & older village homes Indicatively around £300,000–£400,000 First-time buyers; the more accessible ways in
Terraced & semi-detached homes Indicatively around £375,000–£500,000 First-time buyers; smaller families
Detached & family homes Indicatively around £500,000–£750,000 Growing families
Greatham average Above average — often £375,000–£700,000 (verify per property) A broad benchmark for the village
Larger detached, period & country homes Indicatively £750,000–£1.25m+ Buyers wanting a larger period or country home
Council tax — the 2026/27 figure: Greatham is in Hampshire, a two-tier county, so your council tax is made up of several parts: Hampshire County Council (including the adult social care precept), East Hampshire District Council, Greatham Parish Council, the Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner precept, and the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue precept. For the Greatham parish the Band D total for 2026/27 is £2,303.82 (verified from East Hampshire District Council’s published council tax charges). Your actual bill depends on your property’s band, so confirm it with East Hampshire District Council and the VOA before budgeting.

What income might you need?

These illustrative figures use roughly 4.5x household income and assume a typical deposit. They are a starting point for budgeting only — not a quote or advice.

£375,000

Smaller / older village home

~£83,000

household income (guide)

£525,000

Village benchmark

~£117,000

household income (guide)

£800,000

Larger detached / country (indicative)

~£178,000

household income (guide)

Stamp duty (SDLT): what you pay depends on the price, whether you're a first-time buyer, and whether you own another property. At Greatham's prices, SDLT is a real cost to budget for — and the additional-property surcharge adds more again for second homes and buy-to-let. Use the government's official SDLT calculator for an exact figure before you budget.

Greatham affordability & stamp duty calculator

A quick, no-obligation way to see roughly what you could borrow in Greatham and what stamp duty you'd pay. Illustration only — real figures depend on the lender and your circumstances.

Estimated maximum borrowing: £270,000 (about 4.5× income)
Estimated budget with deposit: £310,000
Stamp duty on that budget: £5,500

Illustration only, not a mortgage offer or personalised advice. Lenders' income multiples and criteria vary. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Borrowing ready-reckoner (around 4.5× income)

Yearly income Rough maximum mortgage
£40,000 ~£180,000
£60,000 ~£270,000
£75,000 ~£337,500
£90,000 ~£405,000
£120,000 ~£540,000

Stamp duty (SDLT) in 2026 — England

Portion of price Standard rate First-time buyer
Up to £125,000 0% 0% (up to £300,000)
£125,001 – £250,000 2% 0% (up to £300,000)
£250,001 – £925,000 5% 5% on £300,001–£500,000 (no relief over £500,000)
£925,001 – £1.5m 10%
Over £1.5m 12%

Worked examples: a £250,000 home = £2,500 stamp duty (£0 for first-time buyers); a £450,000 home = £12,500 (£7,500 first-time buyer); a £650,000 home = £22,500 (first-time buyer relief doesn't apply over £500,000). An additional-property surcharge of 5% applies to second homes and buy-to-lets.

SDLT rates as at 2026 (England & Northern Ireland). Scotland (LBTT) and Wales (LTT) differ. Figures are a guide — confirm with your conveyancer.

The Greatham property market in depth

Greatham offers a sought-after village market — smaller and older village homes, popular family houses and some newer homes, and larger detached, period and country properties — with its village setting, the countryside on the edge of the South Downs, and its fast A3 access and nearby direct-London stations all driving demand in a small, low-supply village.

Property type What to expect Typical guide
Smaller & older village homes The more accessible way in; popular with first-time buyers and downsizers. £300,000–£400,000
Terraced & semi-detached homes Village and cottage-style homes in and around the village. £375,000–£500,000
Detached & family homes Popular family homes across the village and its newer stock. £500,000–£750,000
Larger detached, period & country homes Larger period and country homes on generous plots — the top of the local market. £750,000–£1.25m+

Greatham's appeal — a small, sought-after countryside village in the Rother valley on the edge of the South Downs and the Woolmer Forest heaths, with fast A3 access and nearby direct-London stations — makes it a low-supply, high-value market, from smaller village homes to substantial period and country houses.

That range means budgeting and the right mortgage matter. Larger period and country homes here can mean substantial lending, and period, non-standard-construction or low-lying riverside properties are cases lenders and insurers assess carefully, so a survey is wise on an older home and a flood and insurance check helps near the River Rother. A whole-of-market mortgage adviser helps you match the right lender to your plans — the kind of introduction we can arrange.

Transport & commuting from Greatham

Transport in Greatham centres on the A3 and the nearby stations — there is no station in the village itself, so a car is genuinely useful. These indicative times are a starting point — always verify current timetables before relying on a specific journey.

Route Approx. time Notes
Greatham → Liss (nearest station) ~5–10 min drive For direct trains to London Waterloo, Guildford & Portsmouth
Greatham → Petersfield ~10–15 min drive The nearest market town, with a fast direct London Waterloo station
Greatham → London Waterloo (via Liss/Petersfield) ~1h10–1h20 by train Direct from Liss or Petersfield on the Portsmouth Direct line
Greatham → Whitehill & Bordon ~5–10 min drive The regenerating new town just to the north
Greatham → the A3 ~1–5 min drive North for Guildford, the M25 & London; south for Portsmouth
Greatham → Guildford ~30–35 min drive Up the A3, for the town & its fast London trains
Greatham → Portsmouth (A&E) ~40–45 min drive Queen Alexandra Hospital — a nearest major A&E
Greatham → the South Downs / Woolmer Forest On the doorstep The national park and the heaths for walking & the outdoors
Buyer insight: Greatham is best understood as an A3 commuter village. There is no station in the village itself, but Liss, Liphook and Petersfield are all a short drive away on the Portsmouth Direct line, with direct trains to London Waterloo, Guildford and Portsmouth — so the railway is genuinely within reach. For drivers, the A3 runs right past the village (north for Guildford, the M25 and London; south for Petersfield and Portsmouth), with the A31 and M25 within reach further north. A car is useful here, both for the station and for day-to-day life in a rural village.

Getting around Greatham

Day-to-day mobility here is worth thinking through — the practical picture.

By train

No village station — Liss, Liphook and Petersfield are a short drive away, with direct trains to London Waterloo, Guildford and Portsmouth on the Portsmouth Direct line.

By car

The A3 runs past the village (north for Guildford, the M25 and London; south for Petersfield and Portsmouth), with the A31 and M25 within reach — a car is genuinely useful here.

For the airport

Southampton Airport is within a drive to the west, and the A3/M25 open up Gatwick and Heathrow further afield — handy for flights.

By bus

Bus services connect Greatham with Petersfield, Liss and Bordon — check current routes and frequencies, which can be limited in a rural village.

On foot, by bike & on the downs

The South Downs National Park, the Woolmer Forest heaths and the Rother-valley countryside give superb walking and cycling straight from the village.

For the commute

Greatham suits London commuters using Liss or Petersfield (via the Portsmouth Direct line), and Guildford, Portsmouth and Southampton workers using the A3 — an A3 commuter village.

Schools in Greatham

Hampshire state schools are mostly comprehensive and non-selective. Greatham and the surrounding villages have primary and church-school options (around Greatham, Liss and Bordon), with well-regarded state secondaries within reach in Whitehill & Bordon and Petersfield, plus independents in the wider area. Because catchments and admissions matter, confirm the current position directly.

School Type Inspection Notes
Greatham Primary School Primary (state, co-ed) Good The village primary school, rated Good at its most recent graded inspection (a later ungraded visit indicated the school had continued to improve) — check the current catchment and read the latest report.
Bohunt School, Liphook Secondary (state, co-ed) Good A popular, well-regarded secondary a short drive east in Liphook, rated Good at its most recent graded inspection — check catchment and admissions.
Secondary schools (Bordon & Petersfield) Secondary (state, co-ed) Read report Further state secondaries are within reach in Whitehill & Bordon and Petersfield (such as The Petersfield School) — check catchment and admissions.
Sixth form & further education 16–18 (state & college) See options Sixth-form and college options are available around Petersfield, Bordon and Alton — check current provision.
Independent schools (wider area) Independent (various ages) See schools Well-known independents are within reach in the wider East Hampshire and Surrey area — a further option.
For homebuyers: Hampshire state schools are mostly non-selective, so the key questions are catchment and admissions, and a specific address matters — Greatham and its neighbours have primary and church-school options, with well-regarded secondaries in Whitehill & Bordon and Petersfield and independents in the wider area. Confirm the current position with the schools and Hampshire County Council, and read each school’s most recent report in full — noting that from September 2024 state schools no longer receive a single overall Ofsted grade.

Map, Police & Fire Services in Greatham

A useful local guide should show the practical services buyers actually check — policing, fire cover, emergency healthcare and the local crime context for Greatham.

Policing in Greatham
Greatham is covered by the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary, with a local neighbourhood policing team covering the East Hampshire villages. As anywhere, crime varies by area and street. For current crime data by exact postcode, use police.uk. Emergencies: 999; non-emergencies: 101.
Fire & Rescue cover
Greatham is served by the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, whose precept is included within your council tax as a separate line. For free home fire-safety advice and information, contact Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue. In heathland areas the risk of summer wildfire is worth being aware of. Emergencies: 999.
Nearest full A&E
On healthcare access — there is no major hospital in the village; the nearest 24-hour A&E departments are at Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth, the Royal Surrey County Hospital in Guildford and Frimley Park Hospital, with the Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester also within a drive, each some way off by road; there is GP provision in the surrounding area (around Liss, Petersfield and Bordon). As NHS services can be reconfigured and travel times vary, always verify the nearest current A&E and the arrangements directly with the NHS.
Buyer insight: checking police.uk by postcode takes two minutes and is worth doing before offering on any property.

Popular parts of Greatham & nearby

Where you buy in and around Greatham shapes both your budget and your character — from the village core to the edges towards the heaths and the Rother. A quick orientation.

The village core
The heart of Greatham around the parish church of St John the Baptist, the village hall and recreation ground — older village and cottage-style homes with a genuine village feel.
Towards the A3 & Whitehill & Bordon
The northern edge towards the A3 and the regenerating Whitehill & Bordon new town — convenient for the road and for some newer and more affordable housing nearby.
Towards Liss & the south
The southern edge towards Liss and its station — handy for the direct-London railway and Petersfield beyond.
The Rother valley & riverside
The low-lying land in the valley of the River Rother — beautiful and green, but check flood risk near the water.
Le Court & the eastern edge
The edge towards Le Court (the historic first Cheshire Home) and the countryside beyond — a rural, wooded setting.
The surrounding countryside
Scattered homes and small hamlets on the edge of the South Downs and the Woolmer Forest heaths around the village — the most rural option.

Local highlights & days out from Greatham

Greatham packs open countryside, a village heart and a distinctive slice of heritage into one small East Hampshire village. A few of the best-loved local highlights.

The South Downs National Park
The national park and the downland walking on the village’s doorstep to the south — some of the finest countryside in southern England.
The Woolmer Forest heaths
The protected lowland heaths of Woolmer Forest to the north, part of the Wealden Heaths — superb, wild walking country rich in wildlife.
The River Rother & the valley
The clear waters of the River Rother and its green valley — a beautiful, watery presence at the heart of the village setting.
Le Court
The historic first Cheshire Home, founded by the war hero Leonard Cheshire VC in 1948 on the edge of the village — a genuinely distinctive piece of local heritage.
St John the Baptist Church
The village parish church at the heart of the community — a focal point for village life.
The village hall & recreation ground
The hub of village life, with events, sport and community activity — a proper, close village community.

Sports, leisure & community in Greatham

For a small village, Greatham offers a lot — countryside, heritage and community.

Countryside & walking

The South Downs National Park, the Woolmer Forest heaths and the Rother-valley countryside give walking, cycling and the outdoors straight from the village.

Community & the recreation ground

The village hall and recreation ground host events, sport and community activity — a proper village community.

Petersfield, Selborne & the towns near

Petersfield’s market, shops and leisure are a short drive, and Gilbert White’s House & Gardens at nearby Selborne is a lovely day out, with Guildford and Portsmouth further afield.

Healthcare & local services in Greatham

Healthcare access is reasonable for a rural village — GP provision in the surrounding area, with a major A&E a drive away at Portsmouth, Guildford or Frimley.

Hospital & A&E: there is no major hospital in the village; the nearest 24-hour A&E departments are at Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth, the Royal Surrey County Hospital in Guildford and Frimley Park Hospital, with the Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester also within a drive, each some way off by road; there is GP provision in the surrounding area (around Liss, Petersfield and Bordon). As NHS services can be reconfigured and travel times vary, always confirm the nearest current A&E and the arrangements directly with the NHS.

The surrounding area has GP provision (around Liss, Petersfield and Bordon), with dentists and pharmacies in the nearby towns; the nearest major A&E departments are a drive away at Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth, the Royal Surrey County Hospital in Guildford and Frimley Park Hospital, with the Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester also within reach. GP and dental registration availability changes over time, so always check directly with a practice about its current catchment before relying on it for a move.

Living in Greatham

Day to day, Greatham is a small, sought-after countryside village in the Rother valley on the edge of the South Downs — a village feel, open countryside, and fast A3 access with nearby direct-London stations. Here is a sense of everyday life.

Greatham has the amenities of a small village — a parish church, a village hall and recreation ground, and a strong community — with the South Downs National Park and the Woolmer Forest heaths on the doorstep, and Petersfield, Liss and Whitehill & Bordon a short drive for shops, schools and services. The big everyday pluses are the countryside, the peace, the village community and the connectivity via the A3 and the nearby stations. For everyday shopping and secondary schooling you will look to the neighbouring towns.

Connectivity for working is generally reasonable — superfast broadband reaches much of the village, so home and hybrid working is very possible, complemented by the A3 and the nearby stations for office days. The main trade-offs are above-average prices and limited supply in a small village, that there is no station in the village itself (you drive to Liss, Liphook or Petersfield), and a River Rother flood-risk consideration in low-lying and riverside parts — but for countryside, peace and quality of life within reach of the coast and London it is a lovely choice.

Everyday amenity In Greatham? Nearest / notes
Primary schools Nearby (village & area) Primary and church-school options around Greatham, Liss and Bordon; check catchment
Secondary schools A short drive Well-regarded secondaries in Whitehill & Bordon and Petersfield; independents in the wider area
GP & hospital Area GP / A&E a drive GP provision around Liss, Petersfield and Bordon; major A&E a drive at Portsmouth/Guildford/Frimley
Nearest A&E A drive (Portsmouth/Guildford) Queen Alexandra Portsmouth / Royal Surrey Guildford / Frimley Park — verify with NHS
Railway station No (nearby) No village station — Liss, Liphook & Petersfield a short drive (direct London Waterloo)
Shops Nearby towns Village amenities limited; Petersfield, Liss and Bordon a short drive for shops
Green space Yes (abundant) The South Downs National Park, the Woolmer Forest heaths & the Rother-valley countryside

Working & connectivity in Greatham

More people than ever work from home or hybrid, and Greatham is reasonably set up for it — so it's worth being realistic about connectivity.

Superfast broadband reaches much of Greatham, with faster full-fibre available in parts, so home and hybrid working is very possible — complemented by the A3 and the nearby stations at Liss, Liphook and Petersfield for office days. Coverage can still vary by exact address, particularly in older and outlying rural properties, so check the specific property on the providers' and Ofcom's coverage checkers before you commit.

Connectivity Typical picture
Fixed broadband Superfast reaches much of the village; full-fibre in parts — check the exact address
Mobile coverage Generally reasonable; can vary in the valley and on the heaths
Rail for office days No village station — Liss, Liphook & Petersfield a short drive for direct London Waterloo, Guildford & Portsmouth trains
Road & air A3 past the village; A31 & M25 within reach; Southampton Airport within a drive

Flood risk in Greatham

On flooding, much of Greatham sits on free-draining higher ground at lower risk, but the village lies in the valley of the River Rother, so low-lying and riverside parts carry a flood-risk consideration worth checking carefully.

Much of the village is at lower risk: the parts of Greatham on higher, free-draining ground away from the river sit at lower flood risk — a reassuring picture for much of the village.
The River Rother & low-lying spots: the low-lying land in the valley of the River Rother carries a higher flood risk, and surface water can affect some spots in heavy rain. For a home near the water this is worth checking carefully, and it can affect insurance.
What to do: for any riverside or low-lying home — and as a sensible check everywhere — check the postcode on the GOV.UK flood risk service (river and surface-water risk), review the survey and searches, and confirm buildings insurance (and its cost) before you're committed.

Cost of living & running a home in Greatham

Beyond the mortgage, it helps to picture the ongoing costs of a home here. Indicative only — always confirm for a specific property.

Typical ongoing cost Indicative figure Notes
Council tax (Band D, 2026/27) £2,303.82 Hampshire, Greatham parish (verified) — confirm your band
Buildings insurance Varies — check near the Rother River Rother flood risk in low-lying spots can affect premiums; get a quote and flood check before committing
Water & wastewater ~£500–£800/yr Check the supplier for the address
Broadband ~£30–£50/mth Superfast widely available; full-fibre in parts — check the address
Stamp duty (SDLT) — how the bands work: what you pay depends on the price and your circumstances. Standard residential SDLT rises with the price, so at Greatham's values it is a real cost to budget for; an additional-property surcharge applies again to second homes and buy-to-let. Use the official GOV.UK SDLT calculator for an exact figure.

Financing a home in Greatham

A sought-after East Hampshire village on the edge of the South Downs is a lovely thing to buy into — a few points on the mortgage side are worth understanding first.

Greatham's desirable, low-supply village market and above-average prices mean the right mortgage matters — from smaller village homes to larger period and country homes that involve substantial lending. Period, non-standard-construction or low-lying riverside properties are cases lenders and insurers assess carefully, so a survey is wise on an older home and a flood and insurance check helps near the River Rother. Getting the right lender for your circumstances is where good advice pays off.

A whole-of-market approach really helps here. That's Family Finance introduces you to carefully selected, FCA-regulated mortgage advisers who search across lenders to fit your circumstances, and we make sure your protection is set up properly alongside it. Talk to us →

Conveyancing & the searches to expect in Greatham

A few standard checks are worth their weight when buying in Greatham — especially flood near the Rother and on period and rural homes.

Flood & water: for a home near the River Rother and its valley, a thorough flood search is wise, and you should confirm that buildings insurance is available and affordable before you're committed.
Property: a local authority search, drainage and water search, and a full building survey is wise on a period or rural home; check any listing or national-park planning constraints near the South Downs, private drainage or septic-tank arrangements common in villages, and on a new-build the developer, tenure and any service charges.
Other checks: check any covenants, boundaries, rights of way, and take your solicitor's specific advice for the exact property.

History, heritage & famous connections

Greatham is a long-settled village in the valley of the River Rother in East Hampshire, its name recorded from the medieval period; it grew as a small farming and countryside community on the edge of the great heaths of Woolmer Forest, once royal hunting country, with the parish church of St John the Baptist at its heart. For centuries it was a quiet rural parish set among fields and heath, on the old road between Petersfield and the towns to the north.

In the 20th century the coming of the A3 (and later its improvements, including the Hindhead tunnel to the north) brought the village within fast reach of Guildford, London and Portsmouth, drawing commuters to a village setting near the South Downs. Its most distinctive modern chapter came in 1948, when the war hero and philanthropist Leonard Cheshire VC took in a dying friend at Le Court on the edge of the village — the beginning of what became the first Cheshire Home and a movement of disability care that spread across the world. Today Greatham is a sought-after countryside commuter village, rich in surrounding countryside and quietly proud of that heritage.

Greatham through the ages

A quick timeline of the moments that shaped the town you would be buying into.

Year Milestone
Medieval Greatham is established as a farming and countryside village in the valley of the River Rother, on the edge of Woolmer Forest.
Through the centuries A quiet rural parish set among fields and heath, with the church of St John the Baptist at its heart.
20th century The A3 brings the village within fast reach of Guildford, London and Portsmouth, drawing commuters to a village near the South Downs.
1948 Leonard Cheshire VC founds the first Cheshire Home at Le Court on the edge of the village — the start of a worldwide movement of disability care.
2011 The South Downs National Park is designated, with Greatham on its edge.
Today A sought-after countryside commuter village on the edge of the South Downs and the Woolmer Forest heaths.

Famous connections

A few of the people and stories that put Greatham on the map.

Le Court & Leonard Cheshire

Le Court, on the edge of the village, was the very first Cheshire Home, founded by the war hero and philanthropist Leonard Cheshire VC in 1948 — the start of a worldwide movement of disability care; a genuinely distinctive piece of local heritage.

The South Downs & Woolmer Forest

The village sits between the South Downs National Park and the protected lowland heaths of Woolmer Forest — some of the finest walking country in southern England.

The River Rother

The clear river whose green valley shapes the village setting, flowing east towards the South Downs — a defining part of Greatham’s countryside.

Looking beyond the mortgage

Buying a home in Greatham is a major commitment — and the mortgage is only part of the picture. Whatever you buy, the right protection makes sure the home stays yours if life does not go to plan.

Life cover

Pays out a lump sum if you die during the policy term — typically arranged to clear the mortgage so your family can stay in the home.

Critical illness cover

Pays out if you are diagnosed with a serious illness the policy covers — helping you keep up payments while you focus on recovery.

Income protection

Replaces part of your income if you cannot work due to illness or injury — often the most overlooked, and most valuable, cover of all.

That's Family Finance is an FCA-regulated protection adviser — life insurance, critical illness cover and income protection are what we do. We don't arrange mortgages ourselves; we introduce you to carefully selected, FCA-regulated mortgage advisers, and make sure your protection is set up properly alongside it. Talk to us →

Things people don't always tell you about Greatham

Beyond the brochure, a few honest points worth weighing before you commit to buying here.

A sought-after East Hampshire village on the edge of the South Downs. A village feel, open countryside on the doorstep, fast A3 access and nearby direct-London stations at Liss, Liphook and Petersfield.
It’s a small, sought-after village. Prices are above the national average and supply is limited, and there is no station in the village itself (you drive to Liss, Liphook or Petersfield) — budget accordingly and check your commute.
Check flood risk near the Rother. Much of the village is at lower risk on higher ground, but it lies in the valley of the River Rother, which brings higher flood risk in low-lying and riverside parts that can affect insurance — check it for a specific home.

Greatham compared with nearby towns

How Greatham sits against the places buyers most often weigh against it — a quick, indicative comparison.

Town Rough average price Station? Character
Greatham ~£375k–£700k No (nearest Liss, Liphook & Petersfield) Small East Hampshire village; Rother valley; South Downs & Woolmer Forest edge; Le Court
Liss ~£375k–£650k Yes (direct London Waterloo) The larger village to the south with its own station
Petersfield ~£375k–£700k Yes (fast direct to London Waterloo) The historic market town to the south, on the South Downs
Whitehill & Bordon ~£300k–£500k No (nearest Liphook/Bentley) The regenerating new town to the north, with newer & more affordable homes
Liphook ~£375k–£650k Yes (direct London Waterloo) The large village to the east, with its own station

Pros & cons of living in Greatham

An honest, balanced summary to weigh up.

In its favour To weigh carefully
A sought-after countryside village Prices above the national average
South Downs & Woolmer Forest on the doorstep No station in the village itself
Fast A3 access & nearby direct-London stations Limited supply in a small village
A genuine village community A River Rother flood-risk consideration near the water
Le Court & a distinctive slice of heritage Larger period & country homes mean substantial lending
Petersfield & the coast within reach Period/rural homes need careful survey & checks

Villages & areas around Greatham

Many buyers who love Greatham look just outside it too — a quick guide.

The larger village to the south, with its own direct-London station.
The historic market town to the south, on the South Downs, with a fast London station.
Whitehill & Bordon
The regenerating new town to the north, with newer and more affordable homes.
The large village to the east, with its own direct-London station.
The famous Gilbert White village to the west.
The South Downs market town, for shops, schools and the railway.

Who tends to move to Greatham?

Understanding your fellow buyers helps you read the market and pitch an offer.

Families & professionals

People wanting a countryside village with a genuine community, near Petersfield and the South Downs, with well-regarded secondaries in Bordon and Petersfield and open countryside on the doorstep.

Commuters

People using the A3 and the nearby stations at Liss, Liphook and Petersfield (direct London Waterloo) — well placed for London, Guildford, Portsmouth and Southampton.

Country & outdoors lovers

People drawn to the South Downs National Park, the Woolmer Forest heaths and the Rother valley, wanting a quieter rural life within reach of the coast and London.

What your money buys in Greatham

A rough sense of what different budgets tend to secure — indicative only, and hugely dependent on position and condition.

Around £300,000–£400,000
A smaller or older village home — the more accessible way into the village.
Around £400,000–£750,000
A terraced, semi-detached or detached family home — the heart of the Greatham market.
£750,000 and above
A larger detached, period or country home on a generous plot — the top of the local market, into seven figures for the finest houses.

Your move to Greatham, step by step

A simple order of play that keeps things on track.

1. Get your budget straight

Work out your deposit and the true monthly cost (mortgage, council tax, insurance — which flood risk near the Rother can affect — and SDLT), and get a mortgage in principle so you can move quickly in a low-supply village.

2. Do your homework on the property

Check flood risk (especially for low-lying and riverside homes), get a full building survey (wise on period and rural homes), check the school catchment and any national-park planning constraints, and confirm your commute — before you fall in love.

3. Line up the right people

A whole-of-market mortgage adviser, a good surveyor and a local conveyancer will save you time, money and stress. We can introduce you to the first.

Already live in Greatham?

This guide isn't just for people moving in. If you already own here, a few moments now can save a lot later.

If your current mortgage deal is within about six months of ending, it's usually worth reviewing your options rather than drifting onto your lender's standard variable rate, which is often more expensive. And whether or not you're moving, it's worth checking that your protection still matches your life. We can introduce you to a whole-of-market, FCA-regulated mortgage adviser, and review your life cover, critical illness cover and income protection alongside it.

Review my options →

In summary: buying in Greatham

If you are weighing up a move to the town, here is the honest bottom line.

What you gain
A small, sought-after East Hampshire village — in the valley of the River Rother, just off the A3 on the edge of the South Downs National Park and the Woolmer Forest heaths, between Liss, Petersfield and Whitehill & Bordon — with a genuine village community around St John the Baptist Church and the recreation ground, a distinctive slice of heritage in Le Court (the first Cheshire Home, founded by Leonard Cheshire VC in 1948), open countryside on the doorstep, and fast A3 access with nearby direct-London stations at Liss, Liphook and Petersfield.
What to plan for
Above-average prices and limited supply in a small village (with substantial lending on larger period and country homes), no station in the village itself (you drive to Liss, Liphook or Petersfield), a River Rother flood-risk consideration in low-lying and riverside parts (which can affect insurance), period and rural homes needing careful survey and checks, and that Hampshire is mostly non-selective. (Council tax is the verified Greatham-parish figure; confirm your band.)
How we help
We introduce you to carefully selected, FCA-regulated mortgage advisers who search across lenders to fit your circumstances — and we set your protection up properly alongside it.

Quick tips before you buy in Greatham

  • Enjoy the countryside — the South Downs National Park, the Woolmer Forest heaths and the Rother valley, with village life around St John the Baptist Church and the recreation ground.
  • Make the most of the transport — no station in the village, but Liss, Liphook and Petersfield are a short drive (direct London Waterloo), with the A3 past the village.
  • Note the heritage — Le Court, on the edge of the village, was the first Cheshire Home, founded by Leonard Cheshire VC in 1948.
  • Check flood risk for low-lying and riverside homes in the River Rother valley, and confirm insurance.
  • Confirm the council tax and band — Greatham (Greatham parish, Hampshire) Band D is £2,303.82 for 2026/27 (verified).
  • Budget realistically — prices are above average and supply is limited, and larger period and country homes mean substantial lending; use a whole-of-market adviser.
  • Verify the nearest current A&E (Portsmouth / Guildford / Frimley / Winchester) with the NHS.
  • Get a full building survey on a period or rural home, and check any national-park planning constraints and private drainage arrangements.
  • For schools, check catchment for the village/area primaries and the Bordon / Petersfield secondaries, and note independents in the wider area.
  • Explore the South Downs, the Woolmer Forest heaths and the Rother valley to get a feel for the area.
  • Note Petersfield, Liss and Whitehill & Bordon are a short drive for shops, schools and the railway.
  • Get a mortgage agreement in principle before you start viewing in earnest.
  • Review your protection at the same time as your mortgage — important for family buyers.
  • Take your conveyancer’s advice on flood, boundary, drainage and standard searches.

Nearby areas worth considering

If you are weighing Greatham against the surrounding area, these are the places buyers most often compare.

Liss

The larger village to the south, with its own direct-London station.

Petersfield

The historic market town to the south, on the South Downs, with a fast London station.

Whitehill & Bordon

The regenerating new town to the north, with newer and more affordable homes.

Family Protection

Whichever area you choose, the right life cover, critical illness cover and income protection matter just as much as the mortgage.

Talk to us →

Speak to Us

Researching Greatham or a nearby area? We are always happy to point people in the right direction.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Greatham a good place to live?
Yes — Greatham is a sought-after small village in East Hampshire (GU33), in the beautiful valley of the River Rother, just off the A3 on the edge of the South Downs National Park and the Woolmer Forest heaths, between Liss to the south and Whitehill & Bordon to the north. It offers a genuine village feel — a parish church, a village hall and recreation ground, and open countryside all around — with fast A3 access and nearby stations at Liss, Liphook and Petersfield for the commute. The main things to weigh are that it is small and sought-after (so not cheap and limited in supply), that there is no station in the village itself, and a River Rother flood-risk consideration in low-lying and riverside parts.
Is Greatham expensive?
It is above the national average — overall values are often in the region of £375,000 to £700,000, with smaller and older village homes offering the more accessible ways in and larger detached, period and country homes running well beyond. Its village setting, the countryside on the edge of the South Downs, and its fast A3 access and nearby direct-London stations all support demand, and supply is limited in a small village. Always verify current prices via Land Registry data or independent valuation advice.
Does Greatham have a railway station?
No — Greatham does not have its own station, but it is well placed for the railway: Liss, Liphook and Petersfield stations are all within a short drive on the Portsmouth Direct line, with direct trains to London Waterloo, Guildford and Portsmouth. For drivers, the A3 runs right past the village (north for Guildford, the M25 and London; south for Petersfield and Portsmouth). Because the village has no station, a car is genuinely useful here. Always check current timetables at nationalrail.co.uk.
What is Greatham known for?
Greatham is known for its setting — a small, sought-after village in the valley of the River Rother, on the edge of the South Downs National Park and the Woolmer Forest heaths, with its parish church of St John the Baptist at its heart. It is known too for Le Court, a Leonard Cheshire disability home on its edge that was the very first Cheshire Home, founded by the war hero and philanthropist Leonard Cheshire VC in 1948 — a genuinely distinctive piece of local heritage. The open countryside, the walking on the heaths and the downs, and the fast A3 access all add to its appeal.
Where is the nearest A&E to Greatham?
There is no major hospital in the village; the nearest 24-hour A&E departments are at Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth, the Royal Surrey County Hospital in Guildford and Frimley Park Hospital, with the Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester also within a drive. There is GP provision in the surrounding area (around Liss, Petersfield and Bordon). As NHS services can be reconfigured and travel times vary, always confirm current arrangements directly with the NHS.
Does Greatham have good schools?
Hampshire state schools are mostly non-selective. Greatham and the surrounding villages have primary and church-school options (around Greatham, Liss and Bordon), with well-regarded state secondaries within reach in Whitehill & Bordon (such as Bohunt Bordon) and Petersfield (such as The Petersfield School and Bohunt), plus independents in the wider area. Confirm catchment and admissions with the schools and Hampshire County Council, and read reports at reports.ofsted.gov.uk.
What salary do you need to buy in Greatham?
Using 4.5x income as a rough guide: a home around £525,000 might imply a household income in the region of £117,000, with smaller village homes needing less and larger period or country homes more — before your deposit. We can introduce you to an FCA-regulated mortgage adviser to look at your specific numbers. Get in touch →
How much is stamp duty on a Greatham property?
What you pay depends on the price and your circumstances. At Greatham’s values, SDLT is a real cost to budget for, and the additional-property surcharge adds more again for second homes. Use the government’s official SDLT calculator to get an exact figure.
How much is council tax in Greatham?
Greatham is in Hampshire, a two-tier county, so your council tax is made up of Hampshire County Council (including the adult social care precept), East Hampshire District Council, Greatham Parish Council, the Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner precept, and the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue precept. For the Greatham parish the Band D total for 2026/27 is £2,303.82 (verified from East Hampshire District Council’s published council tax charges). Confirm your exact band with easthants.gov.uk and the VOA.
Which police and fire services cover Greatham?
Greatham is covered by the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary and the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (whose precepts are separate lines within your council tax). For crime data by postcode, check police.uk; for fire-safety advice, contact Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue.
Is Greatham a safe place to live?
Greatham is a small countryside village where crime varies by area and street, as anywhere. The best guide is the live data for a specific postcode — check police.uk before you offer on a property.
What is there to do in Greatham?
Walking and cycling on the South Downs National Park and the Woolmer Forest heaths, exploring the Rother valley, and joining village life around the church and the recreation ground — with Petersfield’s market and shops, and Guildford and Portsmouth further afield, a short drive for wider shopping and leisure.
What is broadband like in Greatham?
Superfast broadband reaches much of the village, with faster full-fibre available in parts, so it is generally well suited to home and hybrid working. Coverage can still vary by exact address, particularly in older and outlying rural properties, so check the specific property on the providers’ and Ofcom’s coverage checkers before you commit.
Is Greatham good for families?
Yes — it is a countryside village with primary and church-school options nearby and well-regarded secondaries within reach in Bordon and Petersfield, a village hall and recreation ground, a strong community, and the South Downs and the Woolmer Forest heaths on the doorstep, with Petersfield close by; the main things to weigh are the above-average prices and limited supply, the drive to a station, and the flood risk near the Rother, so plan and check carefully.
Is Greatham good for commuters?
Yes — it is well placed: there is no station in the village itself, but Liss, Liphook and Petersfield are all a short drive away on the Portsmouth Direct line, with direct trains to London Waterloo, Guildford and Portsmouth, and the A3 runs past the village for Guildford, the M25 and London to the north and Portsmouth to the south. It suits London, Guildford and Portsmouth commuters happy to drive to a nearby station or use the A3.
What searches should I expect when buying in Greatham?
The usual local authority, drainage and water searches and a survey — and, for a home near the River Rother, a thorough flood search with checks on insurance; a full building survey is wise on a period or rural home, with checks for any national-park planning constraints near the South Downs and private drainage or septic-tank arrangements common in villages, and on a new-build the developer, tenure and any service charges. Take your conveyancer’s advice for the specific property.
Is flooding a problem in Greatham?
Much of the village, on higher, free-draining ground away from the water, sits at lower flood risk, but Greatham lies in the valley of the River Rother, so low-lying and riverside parts carry a higher flood risk, and surface water can affect some spots in heavy rain — so for a home near the water it is worth checking the exact postcode on the GOV.UK flood risk service and confirming buildings insurance before committing.
How do I get started with a mortgage for Greatham?
The simplest first step is a no-obligation chat about your budget and plans. That’s Family Finance is an FCA-regulated protection adviser and we introduce you to carefully selected, FCA-regulated mortgage advisers who search across lenders — and your protection reviewed alongside it. Get in touch →
Can existing homeowners in Greatham benefit from a mortgage review?
Yes — it’s often worth reviewing your mortgage before a deal ends rather than rolling onto a lender’s standard variable rate, which is frequently more expensive. We can introduce you to an FCA-regulated, whole-of-market mortgage adviser to check whether a better deal is available.

Useful resources

Need help?

Whether you're researching Greatham, planning a move, reviewing your finances or simply exploring your options — we're always happy to point people in the right direction.

By submitting your details you agree that your contact information will be passed to a carefully selected, FCA-regulated mortgage adviser.

Written by Ben Tomlin, Financial Adviser · FCA No. 1038034 · Last reviewed July 2026

That's Family Finance is an FCA-regulated protection adviser (life insurance, critical illness cover and income protection). We do not arrange mortgages ourselves — we introduce you to carefully selected, FCA-regulated mortgage advisers.

Transport information is approximate and can change; Greatham does not have its own railway station, but Liss, Liphook and Petersfield stations are all within a short drive on the Portsmouth Direct line, with direct trains to London Waterloo, Guildford and Portsmouth, and the A3 runs past the village (north for Guildford, the M25 and London; south for Petersfield and Portsmouth), with the A31 and M25 within reach — always verify current timetables at nationalrail.co.uk before travelling. Ofsted information is based on the most recent publicly available reports. Hampshire state schools are mostly comprehensive and non-selective; Greatham and the surrounding villages have primary and church-school options (around Greatham, Liss and Bordon), with well-regarded state secondaries within reach in Whitehill & Bordon and Petersfield, plus independents in the wider area — confirm catchment and admissions with each school and Hampshire County Council. From September 2024 Ofsted no longer awards a single overall effectiveness grade at routine state-school inspections. Healthcare: there is no major hospital in the village; the nearest 24-hour A&E departments are at Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth, the Royal Surrey County Hospital in Guildford and Frimley Park Hospital, with the Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester also within a drive, each some way off by road; there is GP provision in the surrounding area (around Liss, Petersfield and Bordon); NHS services can be reconfigured and travel times vary, so always verify the nearest current A&E and arrangements with the NHS. References to Le Court (the first Cheshire Home, founded by Leonard Cheshire VC in 1948), the South Downs National Park, the Woolmer Forest heaths, the River Rother and St John the Baptist Church are for context. Crime information is general — check current data at police.uk. Flood-risk: much of Greatham, on higher free-draining ground, sits at lower flood risk, but the village lies in the valley of the River Rother and low-lying and riverside parts carry a higher flood risk (and surface water can affect some spots) which can affect insurance; always check the exact postcode at check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk and confirm buildings insurance availability and cost before committing. Council tax: Greatham is in Hampshire (a two-tier county), within East Hampshire District Council and the Greatham parish; the Band D total for 2026/27 is £2,303.82 (verified from East Hampshire District Council’s published council tax charges), made up of Hampshire County Council (including the adult social care precept), East Hampshire District Council, Greatham Parish Council, the Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner precept and the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue precept — confirm your exact band with East Hampshire District Council. Property prices are indicative and based on recent public sold-price data — Greatham is a GU33 village where values are often around £375,000 to £700,000 with period and country homes beyond, with a wide range by property and area; verify current values via Land Registry or an independent valuation for the exact home. Salary and affordability figures are illustrative only and do not constitute financial advice. Stamp duty figures should be verified using the official GOV.UK SDLT calculator.

The information on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. That's Family Finance is an independent, FCA-regulated firm (No. 1038034).
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That’s Family Finance — Greatham Property & Mortgage Guide. That’s Family Finance is an FCA-regulated protection adviser (life insurance, critical illness cover and income protection). We do not arrange mortgages ourselves — we introduce you to carefully selected, FCA-regulated mortgage advisers. Written by Ben Tomlin, Financial Adviser · FCA No. 1038034. This guide is for information only and is not financial or mortgage advice. Figures change — always verify council tax with the local council, school ratings with Ofsted and journey times with the operator before you rely on them.