Unlock Surrey's Sights: Ultimate Guide to Breathtaking Views, Tasty Eats and Rich Heritage

Posted on 05/11/2025

Unlock Surrey's Sights: Ultimate Guide to Breathtaking Views, Tasty Eats and Rich Heritage

Surrey boasts a perfect blend of rolling hills, picturesque villages, stately homes, and vibrant towns. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a gastronome, or a history buff, this captivating county, just a stone's throw from London, offers something for everyone. This comprehensive guide invites you to unlock Surrey's most stunning sights, savor its culinary delights, and immerse yourself in its fascinating heritage--making it a must-read for anyone looking to explore Surrey in greater depth.

Why Visit Surrey?

Unlocking Surrey's sights gives you access to one of South England's most scenic, historic, and culturally rich regions. With its juxtaposition of breathtaking countryside vistas, charismatic market towns, and celebrated gastronomic experiences, Surrey is a top-tier destination for visitors seeking a memorable UK getaway.

Stunning landscapes: From the North Downs to the Surrey Hills, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty beckon walkers and photographers.
Vibrant food scene: Explore award-winning eateries, local pubs, and bustling farmers' markets.
Historic landmarks: Discover a legacy stretching from medieval castles to modern art galleries.
Easy access: Just a short train or car journey from central London.

London

Breathtaking Views: Surrey's Natural Wonders

Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)

Perhaps the crown jewel for scenic vistas in the county, the Surrey Hills AONB covers a quarter of Surrey's area. Here, lush woodlands, chalk hills, and charming villages provide an escapist's paradise.

Leith Hill: Climb the 78-step spiral staircase of Leith Hill Tower for panoramic views extending to London in the north and the English Channel on a clear day.
Box Hill: Famed for its sweeping views and cycling legacy (host to the 2012 Olympic road race), this is a perfect spot for a picnic or a walk along the "Stepping Stones" trail.
Newlands Corner: Walk the ancient woodland trails and enjoy vistas that inspired Sherlock Holmes author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

Whether you're a keen hiker or just looking to soak in sublime scenery, unlocking Surrey's sights begins with these natural wonders.

Serene Waterways and Lakes

Surrey's waterways add a tranquil edge to the landscape, great for walking, birdwatching, or simply relaxing.

River Wey Navigation: Take a narrowboat trip or a leisurely stroll along this historic waterway, discovering locks, wildlife, and picturesque mills.
Virginia Water Lake: Located in Windsor Great Park, this large man-made lake hosts waterfalls, woodland, and the striking Totem Pole--ideal for families.
Frensham Ponds: Unwind on sandy banks, perfect for picnics and wildlife spotting in the Frensham Common heathland.

Tip: Early morning or golden hour walks by these waters promise some of Surrey's most photogenic moments.

Stunning Gardens and Estates

RHS Garden Wisley: One of the UK's finest gardens, Wisley enthralls with floral displays, glasshouses, and tranquil lawns year-round.
Painshill Park: Step into an 18th-century landscape garden with a crystal Grotto, vineyard, and the renowned Gothic Temple.
Loseley Park: Explore walled gardens, ancient oak avenues, and a magnificent Elizabethan manor steeped in history.

Tasty Eats: Where to Savor Surrey's Food Scene

Sampling the local cuisine is pivotal when exploring Surrey's delights. From Michelin-star restaurants to quaint tea rooms and gastropubs, foodies will be in their element.

The Best Restaurants in Surrey

The Clock House, Ripley: This Michelin-starred haven is known for modern British cuisine using seasonal ingredients--a must for special occasions.
The Anchor, Ripley: A riverside gem offering classic and contemporary dishes with a focus on local produce.
Sorrel, Dorking: A celebrated spot where inventive tasting menus and impeccable service draw diners from afar.

Tip: Book well in advance--these sought-after venues fill up quickly, especially at weekends.

Historic Inns & Cosy Pubs

Ye Olde Six Bells, Horley: Dating back to 1452, one of England's oldest inns serving hearty fare and cask ales by a roaring fire.
The Stephan Langton Inn, Friday Street: Hidden among woodland--ideal for a relaxing pint after a walk through the Surrey Hills.
The White Hart, Godstone: Classic British pub dining in a beautiful 16th-century building.

Best Surrey Afternoon Teas

Great Fosters, Egham: Enjoy afternoon tea in Tudor grandeur; indulge in delicate sandwiches, homemade scones, and patisserie treats in the glass-walled orangery.
Oatlands Park Hotel, Weybridge: Take tea overlooking manicured grounds steeped in royal history.

Farmers' Markets and Food Festivals

Exploring Surrey means diving into local flavours. Regular farmers' markets in towns such as Guildford, Farnham, and Reigate offer fresh organic produce, artisan cheeses, and baked goods direct from the source.

Surrey Food Festival: An annual celebration of local producers, street food, cookery demos, and live music--don't miss it!
Dorking's Friday Market: Sample everything from hand-crafted chocolates to wild game, all sold under the shadow of the beautiful St Martin's Church.

Rich Heritage: Discover Surrey's Historic Heart

Unlocking Surrey's sights is also about delving into centuries of English history and culture. The county's heritage is etched into its castles, stately homes, bustling towns, and ancient churches.

Historic Houses & Castles

Hampton Court Palace: Straddling the border with Greater London, this Tudor gem was King Henry VIII's opulent playground. Explore the maze, Great Hall, and beautiful rose gardens.
Loseley Park: Built in the reign of Elizabeth I, the house and gardens are wonderfully preserved and open for guided tours.
Guildford Castle: Climb to the top of the Great Tower for breathtaking views over the town and North Downs.

Interesting Museums and Galleries

Watts Gallery - Artists' Village: A haven for art lovers, it showcases Victorian paintings and the unique legacy of G.F. and Mary Watts in a stunning hillside setting.
Brooklands Museum: Discover the birthplace of British motorsport and aviation, with classic cars, Concorde, and hands-on exhibits for all ages.
Rural Life Living Museum, Tilford: Step back through the centuries to see working rural crafts, vintage vehicles, and traditional farming exhibits.

Picturesque Villages and Towns

Shere: Frequently cited as Surrey's prettiest village, Shere features timbered cottages, independent shops, and film locations ("The Holiday", "Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason").
Farnham: Cobbled streets, an ancient castle, Georgian architecture, and a thriving monthly market scene.
Godalming: With its riverside walkways and historic almshouses, this market town charms visitors all year.

Hidden Gems: Explore Surrey Off the Beaten Track

Unlock Surrey's sights beyond the main attractions by discovering some of the county's lesser-known spots. These quirky, tranquil, and atmospheric destinations spotlight Surrey's rich local character.

Silent Pool: A mysterious spring-fed lake near Albury, wrapped in legend and home to the acclaimed Silent Pool Gin distillery.
Winkworth Arboretum: Managed by the National Trust, this seasonal wonder is renowned for spring blooms and autumn colour.
Tillingbourne Waterfall: A short hike from Friday Street reveals this secret spot, perfect for peaceful nature lovers.
Polesden Lacey: A regal country estate with opulent interiors and fragrant rose gardens, once a retreat for royalty and the social elite.

Exciting Outdoor Activities in Surrey

For adventure-seekers and families alike, Surrey is a true playground. From gentle rambles to adrenaline-fueled escapades, there's an outdoor pursuit for everyone.

Cycling Surrey: Challenge yourself on the winding lanes of the Surrey Hills, including sections of the Olympic cycling route.
Hiking and Walking: Explore marked footpaths like the North Downs Way or Greensand Way, which snake across the county, revealing diverse landscapes.
Golfing: Tee-off at renowned courses such as Wentworth Club and Sunningdale Golf Club, or enjoy public courses with panoramic backdrops.
Go Ape! Cockfosters: Tackle tree-top adventures and zip lines with unforgettable forest views.
Horse Riding and Fishing: Numerous stables and angling locations are scattered throughout the scenic countryside.

Shopping, Culture and Events

Surrey's Markets and Shopping Districts

Unlock Surrey's sights and take home memories (or treats) from stylish boutiques, artisan markets, and bustling shopping streets.

Guildford: Discover designer brands and high-street favourites in its charming cobbled High Street and The Friary Shopping Centre.
Reigate: Independent stores, gift shops, and weekly markets lend Reigate a vibrant, village feel.
Farnham: Renowned for antique shops and a lively monthly artisan market.

Surrey's Calendar of Events

Surrey's calendar is busy with food festivals, summer concerts, historic reenactments, and art exhibitions. Some highlights include:

Guildford Summer Festival: A month-long celebration of music, art, and street entertainment.
Farnham Carnival: Family fun, parades, and community events every June.
Surrey County Show: The biggest one-day agricultural show in the UK, packed with animal displays and rural crafts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Surrey

What is the best time to visit Surrey?

Surrey is stunning in all seasons, but late spring and early autumn combine mild weather with the county's most spectacular landscapes.

How do I get to Surrey?

Unlocking Surrey's sights from London is easy: trains from Waterloo and Victoria reach Guildford, Woking, Dorking, and other key towns in under an hour. Well-connected road networks (M25, A3) make driving simple too.

Is Surrey family-friendly?

Absolutely! Many attractions, gardens, and museums cater specially for families, offering playgrounds, activities, and interactive exhibits.

Your Surrey Adventure Awaits

Unlocking Surrey's sights means savoring sumptuous scenes, palate-pleasing eats, and a tapestry of history--whether you're planning your first visit or seeking fresh inspiration closer to home. This ultimate guide to Surrey not only highlights the headline-grabbing sights, but also encourages you to wander, taste, and experience Surrey's local essence.

So pack your walking boots, bring a hearty appetite, and prepare to fall in love with Surrey's breathtaking views, tasty eats, and rich heritage. The true heart of the county is waiting for you to unlock it.