Leave London and Take a Road-trip to The Rural Areas of Surrey
The beautiful towns of Surrey make it an ideal weekend getaway for city dwellers from London. Surrey is the perfect place to stay and unwind for city people who need to escape the hustle and bustle, with its quaint red-brick cottages, green forests, and cozy village pubs. The county is conveniently located a short hour’s drive from Waterloo.
Whether planning a spontaneous day trip or a weekend getaway at a bed and breakfast, traveling by car is the finest way to see the sights. The challenge is choosing one of the many picturesque towns to visit. We’ve researched and narrowed down the most picturesque towns in Surrey to save you time.
BETCHWORTH
A look around the beautiful Betchworth and its haunted castle.
Betchworth’s picturesque architecture is primarily the result of the town’s winding, lancelike alleys surrounded by trees. Betchworth Castle is a relic from medieval times and a local landmark.
Except for Guy Fawkes Night, when thousands of people go to Brockham Church to see its spectacular bonfire and fireworks show, the area is tranquil.
Be sure to visit c while you’re in the neighborhood; It played an essential role in the box office success of Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994). Also interesting are the nearby bar and blacksmith shop. Buckland, only a few minutes to the east, is almost as charming. Especially the lovely village green.
RIPLEY
Views of the winding river and a great weekly farmer’s market
Ripley in Surrey is the finest option for a peaceful walk by the river. The gentle River Wey and its many tributaries wind their way across the landscape. You’ll find cozy coffee shops, distilleries, and bed and breakfasts in the heart of town.
If you like blues, it may be interesting to know that blues superstar Eric Clapton was born and raised in this little town. The music store Ripley Guitars was named after him as a tribute to his achievements. The oldest cricket club in England is the Ripley Cricket Club.
It has the most extensive cricket grounds in the nation. The Ripley Farmer’s Market is open on the second Saturday of every month and features local farmers selling fresh, in-season fruits, vegetables, and specialty items.
GODSTONE
Kid-friendly farm with animal interactions, inside and outdoor play spaces, and a store.
Children will have a blast visiting Godstone Farm. It’s located in the hamlet, where they can pet goats and cows. Ponies and even have a turn driving a toy tractor. Godstone’s adult residents may find many attractions. Including historic churches, expansive vineyards, and dozens of charming wood homes.
The village green and duck pond are great places to spend some time in nature. A trip to Titsey Place will allow you to appreciate the incredible architecture of days gone by. If you’re interested in history, you shouldn’t miss a visit to Chartwell,
SHAMLEY GREEN
It’s a typical Surrey town.
The Lee Crouch house in Shamley Green, Surrey, is one of the oldest cottages in the county. Its classified as a Grade II building due to its historical significance. However, its magnificent collection of stone-brick houses and gorgeous surroundings are the main draws for most tourists. Visit in June to take part in the Village Fete and Dog Show.
If you’re thirsty, stop by one of the village’s two friendly watering holes. Such as the Bricklayers Arms or the Red Lion. But those who choose to abstain from alcohol might visit The Speckled Hen for a cup of tea and a nibble.
PEASLAKE
A little town with breathtaking natural beauty.
Peaslake is situated in the heart of Surrey. Surrounded by woods and traversed by a complex network of paths and roads. With just 1,400 people calling this tiny townhome, you will likely be nobody else while you’re there.
Activities such as cycling, hiking, and picnicking among the glistening lakes of Coverwood are delightful on sunny days. Peaslake Memorial Hall hosts live concerts and events, while the whitewashed Hurtwood Inn Pub is a refined spot to drink and dine.
SHERE
The village attracts many tourists, making it one of Surrey’s top destinations.
There is one of the larger villages in Surrey. Its post-and-beam architecture gives it an impression of cosmopolitanism. Within them, neighborhood bars offer frosty beers to the regulars. While souvenir stores, art galleries, and museums welcome the tourists (of whom there are many).
Visit St. James Church, built in the 12th century. Its features in the Domesday Book for its impressive stonework and stained-glass windows. Learn about the life of a religious hermit named Christine Carpenter, who lived there. Newlands Corner is a great hiking destination. The nearby Silent Pool is a quiet oasis with an adjacent distillery.
CHIDDINGFOLD
The St. Mary Chruch in Chiddingfold.
Chiddingfold was historically a hub for glassblowers, who sold their crafts on the village green every morning. The stained glass windows in St. Mary’s Church are a great example of their work. Town residents may now make a living from farming and tourism.
It has an area’s beautiful taverns and bed and breakfasts draw visitors from nearby London. Take a stroll about town at dusk if you can; you could see foxes, deer, and badgers in the nearby woods. Chiddingfold Golf Club and Ramster Gardens are beautiful green spaces far south of the city center.
OXSHOTT
A title for the most expensive English village.
The wealthy people of Oxshott may block off their streets to keep the less desirable elements of society out. This might explain why this affluent neighborhood seldom sees visitors. The hamlet has been called “the most expensive village in England” since it is home to various famous people.
Professional players (Chelsea F.C. trains here) are looking for a peaceful place to live. Although some of Oxshott is off-limits, it’s still worth exploring and exiting the city. Hikers go to the Oxshott Woodlands, also known as Esher Commons and Prince’s Coverts.
MICKLEHAM
Very next to Surrey’s finest national park.
It’s close to the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The community of Mickleham is popular with hikers and campers. Trails of varied lengths for hiking and biking. Horseback riding may be found throughout the vast national park. Pack a picnic lunch and visit Box Hill and Stepping Stones Walk at the very least.
When you get back to town, check out the spooky St. Michael and All Angels Church, if only for the graveyard in the rear. The Running Horses, located across the street, is a high-end hotel and restaurant.
LEIGH
A remote location that has been inhabited for at least 500 years yet is seldom visited.
Because of its small size, the community of Leigh is sometimes overlooked by motorists. The red-stone St. Bartholomew Church is in its heart; It has a lovely antique lychgate and a quaint wooden spire. Look for the giant oak tree that the locals say is over 500 years old.
Across the street is the Plough, a pub that has been there since the 15th century. Still owned and operated by the same proprietor. The Seven Stars Inn, located not much farther up the road, is another excellent choice; Serves a contemporary spin on classic British fare. If you’re not into warm meals and beer, there are lots of trails and bike paths to explore in the area.