Shere delight in the Surrey hills.......

If you do not fancy a summer excursion to an olde English village so idyllic and so rarefied, that their ducks are granted special status, and numerous heritage-standard cottages and gardens that, added together, boast more flowers and plants than reside in all of Kew, then do not go near the delightful little village of Shere. Nestling sleepily in a hollow of the Surrey hills, Shere is the atmospheric spot in which to enjoy afternoon tea, followed by working off those calories on one of the many walks around the town. You can simply wander about, visit the twelfth-century church or go on a country walk to the Silent Pool, site of a legend connected with King John. Of course, it helps to have a car, though buses do travel that way from Guildford. And just up the road, enjoy the stunning view from the elevated Newlands Corner. All in all, a great day out….but if you don’t like that sort of thing…?

Wonderful Winkworth Arboretum

If you live in Surrey and are seeking a pleasant country interlude, this summer, you may find Winkworth Arboretum to your taste. Located on Hascombe Road, not far from the town of Godalming, the arboretum is actually a hillside nature reserve that encompasses a large pond, various meadows and a number of woods, including Magnolia Wood, Bluebell Wood and Holly Wood – ah! - what’s not to love? Like all reserves, the arboretum is laid out in a number of walks, for instance, “Taste of Winkworth”, 1.6 km approx, and “Challenging” walk, 3.6 km approx. Because of the present extraordinary circumstances, access to facilities are limited, but there is a tea room and bathroom, and normally, a natural play area and boat house. Dogs on lead are welcome, but hard ball games, bicycles, scooters and “garden toys” are not permitted. Entrance is by timed ticket, so you will have to phone or email in advance (01483 208477) winkwortharboretum@nationaltrust.org.uk But the wait is well worth it, believe me.