For some strange reason, Surrey has developed a reputation for being little more than a place for London commuters to put down roots over the years, but there’s far more to the place than that. This may be part of the so-called ‘stockbroker belt’, if such a thing still exists, but it’s also one of the UK’s loveliest counties. Here are five exceptional reasons to head for Surrey when you next have a day free.
Come see the former playgrounds of the wealthy
Surrey is home to a wide selection of stately homes, many of which were once the country retreats of the seriously wealthy. Polesden Lacey, close to Dorking, is a particularly good example of this. A grandiose house has been there since the 1300s, for example, and in Edwardian times it was bought by Scottish brewer William McEwan for his daughter. Part of the remodelling was undertaken by the same architects who built London’s Ritz Hotel, and as we all know nothing is ritzier than the Ritz!
More greenery than you might have imagined
Another misleading aspect of Surrey’s reputation as some kind of ‘Commuterville’ lies in the sheer abundance of glorious outdoor adventuring that can be had. There are plenty of suburban towns and neighbourhoods, of course, much of which are homes to people who take 7:48 from Guildford to London Waterloo, but there’s plenty of great outdoors to feel great about. Buckland Park Lake is a wonderful example, being close to Redhill, Reigate and Dorking yet remaining an unspoilt rural idyll for all visitors.
Plenty of high-octane fun to be had
If you thought Surrey was in some way sleepy, you really need to think again. Plenty of adrenaline-fuelled excitement can be had at the wonderful Campaign Paintball & Laser Park in Cobham, for example. After all, nothing gets the blood pumping quite like taking on family and friends for some action-packed skirmishing! Another option is to be found at Sandown Sports Club, where you can try your hand at skiing, squash and plenty more.
And finally, something for the kids
Days out in Surrey for all the family are special, thanks in part to the sheer variety of venues to be savoured here. The wonderful Hobbledown Adventure Farm features indoor and outdoor fun, with highlights including a great selection of cute animals and a play barn for the youngsters to let off steam. And for those with a keen interest in transport and history, be sure to make a day of it at Brooklands Museum to see one of the world’s first racetracks and to gaze in awe at the iconic Concorde.
Whether you live locally or you’re visiting this glorious county from elsewhere, we have a feeling you’re going to fall in love with Surrey. Be sure to let the GoLark team point you towards the very best days out today.
