The Three Best
As the seasons change and the Surrey Hills adorn themselves with Autumnal aesthetics, we’ve curated some of the best spots to venture to at only a stones throw from our retreat in the Hills! Whether it’s a day of adventures with the little ones, or going halves on a big and bold bottle of red in one of Surrey’s cosy pubs, we’ve got just the ticket.
The Three Best Pubs…
A pit-stop pub lunch after an easy-going countryside stroll is always a recipe for success, but then again, so is the glorious glug of a large glass of wine being poured by a cosy fireplace. We’re not here to judge! Which ever you’re there for, we’d recommend paying these pubs, all close to Barnett Hill, a visit…
The Drummond at Albury – A classic English gastropub that can be found just outside of Guildford. It serves honest food from fresh ingredients as well as a cracking selection of all things drinks, making it a perfect spot to refuel after a stroll.
The White Horse – A multiple award-winning, 16th century pub, located in the small village of Hascombe. Nestled in the Surrey Hills, approximately 8 miles from Guildford, this country pub really ticks the box when it comes to cosy and quaint.
Ye Old Ship Inn – The team at the Ye Old Ship Inn are proud purveyors of all things local, which can be seen across their food and drinks offerings. Stunning stone baked pizzas all to be washed down with a tasty tipple. What more could you want?
The Three Best Gardens…
Luckily for us here at Barnett Hill, we’re only a whisker away from some extraordinarily beautiful gardens! We’d definitely suggest venturing to these.
RHS Wisley – The flagship of the Royal Horticultural Society and for a very good reason. Home to 240 acres of land, Wisley is more about inspirational gardening than just your typical displays. Well worth the visit in the coming autumnal months.
Winkworth Arboretum – As the picture above conveys brilliantly, this just may be one of the best places to catch the season on the turn. A prefect day out with the family, it boasts stunning woodland areas for the kids to explore as well as the truly magnificent warming colours on show this season.
Claremont Landscape Garden – At nearly 300 years old, this Grade I listed garden provides acres of open space and phenomenal views of its landscape. A great place for either the keen horticulturalist or whether you just fancy some fresh air and scenery to compliment!
The Three Best Walks…
With some of Surrey’s best walks right on the Barnett Hill’s doorstep, spend a morning or afternoon on a crisp Autumn day savouring the most of the glorious colours and scenery.
Devils Punch Bowl – An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – Visit and you’ll see why! The Devil’s Punch Bowl (pictured above) is situated in and amongst stunning rolling hills and woodlands, with various trails and routes to walk and explore.
Reigate Hill – A route that combines tranquil woodlands, pockets of flowery grasslands and spectacular views. A great way to spend the morning, working up an appetite for lunch at The 1905 Bar for a spot of lunch!
Box Hill – A light, circular stroll atop of Box Hill, providing a picturesque panorama of glorious Surrey countryside.
The Three Best Family Activities…
This October Half-Term, kids stay free at Barnett Hill, so if you’re planning a stay at our retreat with the family, we think we’ve found just the things for the little one’s to sink their teeth into, preventing that oh-so dreaded “I’m borrrred”…
Guildford Treasure Trail – Code cracking and clue busting leads to big rewards! The Guildford Treasure Trail is fantastic day out filled with adventure, leading you from clue to clue through Guildford city centre. Sign us up!
Bocketts Farm – Bocketts Farm is a bustling working family farm. The combination of animals & extensive play areas (both inside & out), make the farm a great day out for pre school and primary aged children, come rain or shine.
Witley Commons – Suitable for mixed ages, Witley Commons natural play trail provides a chance for the children to embrace their inner intrepid adventurers. A great place to practice their climbing, balancing and just to generally blow off some steam.
The Three Best Historic Houses…
Indulge in fascinating British history and visit these three stunning locations!
Hatchlands Park – Built in 1756, this gorgeous Georgian mansion is truly remarkable. Pictured above, this property contains six wonderfully restored bedrooms, decorated with an eclectic, family reel complement stunning architectural details.
Polesden Lacy – 1,500 acres to explore whilst you enjoy seeing the seasons turn. This, magnificent Edwardian property can be enjoyed at your own pace, or with a guided tour, enabling you to soak up its rich history. A great place to take the kids too.
Clandon Park – After a devastating fire that gutted the house in 2015, Clandon Park offers visitors a completely different perspective of exploring this historic property. Whilst the fire destroyed much of the interior, it provides a fascinating insight into the restoration project of this magnificent 18th Century property.
The Three Best Views…
British countryside just wouldn’t be British countryside without the incredible views they gift us with! Here at Barnett Hill, we’re only an earshot away from some of the best in the Surrey Hills.
Leith Hill – This really is a true gem in every sense of the word. From the Tower rising majestically above the surrounding hills (by the way, the top of the tower is the highest point in South-East England!) you can see sweeping views towards London in the North and the English Channel in the South. This is one you absolutely do not want to miss at this time of year.
Newlands Corner – 103 acres of gorgeous greenery and and perfect panoramic views of the surrounding area. Not much else needs to said other than to pay it a visit and see for yourself!
Chantry Wood – A short distance away from Guildford city centre, this calming combination of woodlands and meadows also delivers extraordinary views to the south overlooking Chilworth, Chinthurst Hill and St. Martha’s church.
The Three Best Local Cycle Routes…
Ranging from lovely leisurely loops to those challenging inclines along the country lanes, cycling is a fantastic way of getting out and seeing the countryside that surrounds Barnett Hill. For those that need the little extra boost, why not look to hire an electric bike to whizz you up those steep hills?
Country Lanes of Surrey Hills – To be enjoyed as a relaxing route as you twist and turn your way through country roads. Whilst you may be met with a slight gradient here and there, your efforts are rewarded with wonderful scenery. After all, the best things in life are worth the effort…
Gravel Locks – This easy-going, gentle riverside gravel loop in Guildford is perfect for any fitness level and extremely accessible via public transport. There’s even a café on route, allowing you to enjoy your surroundings over a quick snack before finishing!
The Downs Link – A mountain bike is recommended here as this one’s tailored more towards the avid cyclists and off road fans. This route climbs through the Surrey Hills and into the South Downs, with a varied landscape of rock and soil as the trails cross over. The terrain can be slightly more challenging to navigate but once again, your persistence is rewarded greatly with breath-taking features along the way.
The Three Best Running Routes…
Much like the cycle routes, we’ve picked a few that we feel are great for the gentle jogger, as well as a route for those who fancy themselves as the Surrey Hills Mo Farah!
Boxgrove Loop – A flat and gentle route for those looking to take it easy. This light 3-miler takes you on a loop around Guildford’s Stoke Park where you can take in the pleasant greenery and a recently restored Japanese garden.
Epsom Downs – A 5 mile cross-country trail leads you through woodlands and countryside, with views of the well-renowned Epsom Downs Racecourse. For runners who thrive on the surrounding scenery to keep the pace up, this one’s for you.
Binscombe Loop – A run suitable for any level, starting on the south-west edges of Guildford, you delve into the Surrey countryside along a 6 mile circuit, as you cruise towards the small village of Binscombe, before looping around and finishing back in Guildford.
If you’re looking to book with us, contact the team at Barnett Hill here, who will be delighted to assist you in your perfect autumnal escape.
Curated by George Waddell