As winter sets in there’s nothing better than cosying up by the fire at a country pub, with a glass of red or a warming ale, and a plate of delicious seasonal food. A place where you can truly wind down away from the chill outside. Surrey is home to large woodlands ready to explore, breathtaking views from the Surrey Hills, and two of our gorgeous village pubs, ideal for settling into after a bracing country walk, with or without your pooch.
The Richard Onslow
Set in the charming village of Cranleigh, England’s biggest, is The Richard Onslow. Sitting proudly on the Cranleigh high street, you can expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere with a lively bar, a cosy snug, and an elegant dining room serving honest food and cracking Sunday lunches. On the menu you’ll find top notch, ethically sourced ingredients, such as beef from Aubrey Allen and Jimmy Butler’s free-range pork. Tuck into the 14 Hour Braised Beef and Ale Pie with creamy buttered mash, greens and gravy to make you sleepily full before it’s time to settle down for the night.
When the night draws to a close enjoy a stay in one of The Onslow’s characterful bedrooms, only a staircase away. A comfy bed, soft sheets and plump pillows await, along with fleecy throws, flat-screen tv and a luxurious en-suite bathroom. We try to keep as much of the originality and quirkiness of our buildings as we can, decorating with antique pieces and making the most of the pub’s original fireplaces, ancient beams and low doorways.
After breakfast, take a stroll down the high street for independent shops full of vintage homewares, hand-made gifts and fine foods from local producers. Plan a day out at the Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery, a wander around Guildford Castle or take a leisurely drive through the picturesque countryside. Whatever tickles your tastebuds, there are plenty of wonderful things to do around Cranleigh for your perfect staycation.
The Drummond at Albury
If you’re looking for something that little bit more hidden away, The Drummond at Albury is the perfect destination for a peaceful, hideaway retreat this winter
Set over in the tranquil village of Albury in the heart of the eponymous estate, The Drummond is known for it’s stunning garden running from the pretty 19th century pub building, down to the River Tillingbourne.
Inside find a low-ceilinged bar, with cosy nooks to hole up away from the outside world. Sit back in a comfy spot and nurse a pint of Shere Drop, from the local Surrey Hills Brewery or tuck into a delicious dish from their seasonal menu.
Warm up with the Soup of the Day, followed by Venison Shepherd’s Pie and cavolo nero or Shallot Tarte Tatin with Roast Beetroot, Goats’ Cheese, Lentil and Walnuts. Indulge in a Sticky Toffee Pudding with rich toffee sauce for pud, or if you prefer savoury, savour a selection of British cheeses served ripe and ready. The pub serves daily market fish and daily specials, too.
Stay over in one of the lovely new rooms which make for great midweek or weekend getaways. Each is comfortably furnished with antiques, luxury linens, rain showers and some with roll-top baths for sinking into with a glass of bubbles. Sleep late and start the day well with a breakfast of Dunkeld Smoked Salmon Royale, Free-range Poached Egg and Hollandaise or a Full English with the best quality free-range bacon and sausages from Jimmy Butler’s Blythburgh Farm.
The Richard Onslow and The Drummond at Albury are two delightful spots for the perfect staycation. Both pubs offer a dinner, bed and breakfast rate starting from just £150 a night for two or the chance to enjoy a Sunday stopover to make the most of your weekend with a second night at half price.
To book call the pubs on 01869 220412, email reservations@peachpubs.com or visit the pub’s booking pages – The Richard Onslow and The Drummond at Albury.
