A Visitor's Introduction to Cobham, Surrey

Why is Cobham Worth a Visit?

Cobham is worth visiting for its balance of rural beauty, historic sites, and contemporary comforts. This picturesque village has a delightful high street, lined with boutique stores, independent cafés, and award-winning restaurants, which gives it a welcoming yet upscale vibe. History buffs will appreciate Cobham's well-preserved architecture and landmarks, such as the 12th-century St. Andrew’s Church and the National Trust’s Painshill Park. With its tranquil riverside walks and proximity to Surrey’s beautiful countryside, Cobham is a wonderful destination for a day trip or weekend escape.

Cobham Highlights: Things to See and Do in Cobham

1. Painshill Park

Painshill Park is one of Cobham’s most iconic attractions. This 18th-century landscaped garden, designed by Charles Hamilton, is a masterpiece of English landscape gardening. Visitors can explore winding paths, striking follies, the picturesque Gothic Temple, and the stunning Crystal Grotto. The park also features a serpentine lake and spectacular views across Surrey. Painshill is a peaceful, photogenic location that’s especially beautiful in autumn and spring.

2. St. Andrew’s Church

St. Andrew’s Church is a Grade I listed building that dates back to the 12th century, making it one of Cobham’s oldest landmarks. With its striking Norman architecture, beautiful stained glass windows, and serene churchyard, it offers a quiet spot for reflection and a fascinating look at Cobham’s medieval heritage. Be sure to visit the impressive oak doors, which date back several hundred years.

3. Cobham Mill

Situated along the River Mole, Cobham Mill is the only working watermill in Surrey and is a beloved symbol of the village’s heritage. Restored and maintained by local volunteers, the mill offers open days during which visitors can see it in operation and learn about its history. The riverside setting is picturesque, making it a lovely spot for a gentle stroll or picnic nearby.

4. The Medicine Garden

This restored Victorian walled garden offers a unique mix of wellness, shopping, and dining. Once a kitchen garden for the nearby mansion, it’s now home to artisan shops, a café, and wellness studios. The Medicine Garden also hosts workshops, yoga classes, and wellness events, making it a peaceful destination for relaxation. The on-site café serves up delicious seasonal fare, ideal for a post-walk treat.

5. Cobham High Street

Cobham’s High Street is lined with stylish boutiques, quaint shops, and upscale eateries. Here, you’ll find everything from fashion stores to artisanal bakeries. Cobham High Street is a wonderful spot for leisurely shopping, with independent boutiques offering unique clothing, jewellery, and gifts. After shopping, enjoy lunch at one of the local favourites like The Ivy Cobham Brasserie.

6. Claremont Landscape Garden

A short drive from Cobham, Claremont Landscape Garden is a National Trust property offering scenic trails, historic viewpoints, and lovely picnic spots. Originally designed by Capability Brown, the garden includes a large lake, beautiful tree-lined paths, and a grassy amphitheatre. Families will enjoy the natural play areas, and history enthusiasts will appreciate learning about its past links to Princess Charlotte of Wales.

7. The River Mole Walk

The River Mole runs through Cobham, providing a scenic backdrop for riverside walks. The path along the river offers a peaceful setting with charming views of Cobham Mill and the surrounding countryside. The walk is easy and family-friendly, offering spots to sit and relax by the water or to enjoy a riverside picnic. The river is particularly beautiful in the spring when wildflowers bloom along the banks.

8. Silvermere Golf & Leisure

For golf enthusiasts, Silvermere Golf & Leisure offers a beautiful 18-hole course set around Silvermere Lake. The course is challenging yet accessible for all skill levels. After a round of golf, visitors can enjoy a meal at the on-site lakeside restaurant, which offers stunning views over the water. Silvermere also features a popular golf shop and driving range for those wanting to practice their swing.

9. Brooklands Museum

Located just a short drive from Cobham, Brooklands Museum is an exciting spot for those interested in British motoring and aviation history. The museum is home to historic racing cars, classic aircraft, and the famous Concorde experience. Brooklands is a family-friendly venue with interactive exhibits, making it a great excursion from Cobham for a half-day visit.

Practical Advice for Visitors

• Getting There: Cobham is easily accessible from London and other parts of Surrey. By car, it’s about a 45-minute drive from central London via the A3. For those taking public transport, trains from London Waterloo to Cobham & Stoke d’Abernon station take about 40 minutes, with a short taxi ride or 25-minute walk into the village centre.

• Parking: Cobham has several car parks, including those on Hollyhedge Road and at the Waitrose supermarket. There is some street parking along the high street, but these spots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Parking at Painshill Park is available for visitors to the gardens.

• Dining: Cobham’s dining scene is known for its quality and variety. The Ivy Cobham Brasserie is a popular spot offering British and international dishes in an elegant setting. For a more traditional pub experience, The Old Plough serves classic British fare and has a lovely garden for outdoor dining. The Juicery, located in The Medicine Garden, offers healthy, organic dishes and smoothies, ideal for those seeking a lighter meal.

• Shopping: Cobham has a variety of boutique shops, from independent clothing stores to specialty food shops. Fego is a popular café for coffee and brunch, with a small selection of gourmet foods to take home. For unique gifts, Bayley & Sage offers gourmet food items, while the boutiques along Cobham High Street have a range of fashion and home décor options.

• When to Visit: Cobham is an attractive destination year-round, though late spring to early autumn (May to September) is particularly lovely for enjoying its parks and outdoor attractions. Painshill Park and the River Mole walks are particularly beautiful in autumn when the leaves change colour. December is also a nice time to visit, as Cobham hosts festive decorations and seasonal events.

• Local Events: Cobham hosts several events throughout the year, including the annual Cobham Heritage Day in September. This community event features live music, food stalls, vintage cars, and activities for children, making it a great day out for families. Painshill Park often hosts seasonal events, such as Christmas light trails and Easter egg hunts, providing added activities for visitors.

• Exploring Beyond Cobham: Cobham’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions in Surrey. The charming village of Esher, with its famous racecourse, is only a 10-minute drive away. Hampton Court Palace, a magnificent Tudor palace once home to Henry VIII, is around 20 minutes by car and is a must-see for history lovers. Box Hill, part of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is a 25-minute drive away and offers some of the best hiking and views in the region.