Escape to the Surrey Hills this Summer and the third night is on us!  A fabulous reason indeed to explore the Surrey Hills – like the Cotswolds, but closer (as we like to say…) – from chocolate-box villages to artisan producers, there’s so much to experience all from your luxury basecamp at beautiful Barnett!  We thought we’d compile a little itinerary to ensure that you don’t miss out on all the lovely things there are to do in the Hills whilst you’re with us. Read on…

DAY ONE

Drive up our beautiful winding drive way to the top of ‘our’ hill.

Arrive in style – car hired from RNG Classics

Arrive in time for a delicious afternoon tea on the terrace overlooking the lawn and take in the view.  Book one of our master suites Thomas Cook or Beatrice Cook and you can even admire the view across Surrey when you wake up.  After a relaxing afternoon tea (don’t just take our word for it, our scones are to die for) take to the Hills – ask our friendly reception team and they will happily suggest some local walks.

Afternoon tea on the Terrace at Barnett Hill 

Return to the hotel in time for supper in The Oak Room or if the weather is warm enough al fresco as the sun goes down.

DAY TWO

Wake up gently perhaps savouring an early morning coffee before our famous full English.

Morning coffee in the Thomas Cook Suite

Your first full day in The Hills! if you’re feeling energetic, or perhaps your pooch has joined you, set off for Newlands Corner, a 10 minute drive away.  There are several walks of different lengths that start from here including the wonderful walk up to St Martha’s Church where you can almost see the sea on a clear day.

Views from Newlands Corner

Afterwards we recommend the dog friendly Percy Arms in Chilworth for a spot of lunch.  Return to the hotel for some R&R – perhaps a deckchair with a good book or a relaxing massage to soothe any post walk aches.   Or if you have energy to spare drive another 10 minutes into the historic town of Guildford where boutiques galore await, especially on the tiny streets connecting North Street to the High Street.  If lunch has filled you up enjoy a salad or our rather tasty Club sandwich with a glass of Albury sparkling rosé from our nearest vineyard or a refreshing Hog’s Back craft beer from the brewery or a refreshing Silent Pool G&T from just up the road…….

Silent Pool G&T by the lily pond

DAY THREE

By now you should feel fully immersed in the Surrey Hills.

Breakfast in Bed

After breakfast (treat yourself and have it in bed) it’s only a 10 minute drive to the Silent Pool Distillery for a tour.  Perfect for gin lovers and gin newbies alike you’ll tour the distillery, learn the history of gin and taste the full range (trust us you’re going to find it hard to choose a favourite!) and we guarantee you won’t be able to resist bringing home a bottle or two (remember to book in advance).   Stay awhile at the tranquil Silent Pool and pop into Mandira’s Kitchen for lunch to experience some authentic Indian street food on their patio.  It’s truly delicious!

After lunch head over to the prettiest village in Surrey.  Shere is a chocolate box of pretty cottages, quirky gift shops and some rather lovely pubs & cafes and has been the backdrop for many a Hollywood blockbusters including The Holiday and Beauty & the Beast.  It’s a lovely village to wander through – our top tips are to browse the gorgeous Shere gift shop and make sure you allow enough time for a cup of tea (and possibly a slice of scrumptious cake) at The Dabbling Duck.

Shere – one of the prettiest villages in Surrey

Or head to the peaceful Winkworth Arboretum.  Whilst there, don’t miss the wetland, which is home to an array of shy wildlife including bats, newts and waterfowl. Descend from the meadow to the winding boardwalk, passing huge leaves of gunnera and old, tangled roots along the way.

Winkworth Arboretum – a National Trust property

In the evening speak to our events team and reserve The Tea House for a really special supper a deux.  Sip on a cocktail or two and enjoy some fabulous Surrey Hills dishes prepared by Head Chef Robert Newall as the sun sets……

The Tea House

Available until 30th September Sunday to Thursday.  Book your own 3 for 2 stay in the Hills here.

For more ideas on what to explore whilst staying at Barnett Hill click here plus we have lots of ideas on where to visit with families here.

Curated by Amanda Dougans