Things To Do
in Banstead
Banstead is a leafy village in Surrey, just southwest of central London. It sits on the northern edge of the North Downs, with Banstead Downs and nearby woodlands offering easy walks. The High Street preserves a traditional village atmosphere with shops, pubs, and cafés.
It's a convenient base for exploring both suburban London and the surrounding countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in Banstead Village, enjoying traditional English fare. After that, take a stroll through the quaint streets, admiring the charming architecture and unique shops that line the way. As you wander, stop by the historic St. Anne's Church, where you can appreciate its beautiful stained glass windows.
For lunch, indulge in a delicious meal at a nearby pub, where you can savor homemade dishes made with local ingredients. Following lunch, explore the expansive Banstead Commons, a tranquil area perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic amidst nature. Don’t forget to snap some photos of the local wildlife and the picturesque scenery.
As evening approaches, dine at a charming restaurant that offers a mix of British and international cuisine. After dinner, take a relaxing stroll through the village, soaking in the peaceful ambiance and perhaps stopping at a local pub for a drink. End your day by enjoying a cozy atmosphere and live music at one of the village's venues.
Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, fueling up for a day of outdoor adventure. Head out to Banstead Commons, where the fresh air and natural beauty will invigorate your spirit. Enjoy a guided nature walk, learning about the local flora and fauna from knowledgeable guides.
After your walk, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the scenic spots within the Commons, taking in the sights and sounds of nature around you. In the afternoon, continue your exploration by visiting the nearby Nonsuch Park, where you can wander through its beautiful gardens and historic grounds. Consider renting a bicycle to cover more ground and experience the park's expansive pathways.
As the sun sets, return to Banstead for a delightful dinner at a traditional British restaurant. Savor classic dishes like fish and chips or shepherd's pie while reflecting on your day’s adventures. If you’re up for it, end the evening with a visit to a local theater for a performance or movie.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚆One-way local transport ticket | $3-6 |
| 🏠Monthly rent for 1-bedroom in town | $1,200-1,800 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Leafy, peaceful base with quick access to London
- Strong village character and historic High Street
- Good value for money in the region
- Close to countryside and golf courses
- Limited nightlife within Banstead itself
- Some amenities concentrated in nearby towns
- Public transport less frequent on Sundays
Places to Visit in Banstead
Visit one of these nice places.
An open hilltop with sweeping views over the Surrey countryside and distant London skyline on clear days.
Picturesque traditional shopfronts and a classic British townscape ideal for street photography.
Expansive pasture and racing course views, especially vibrant at sunrise and during race meetings.
Food in Banstead
Banstead Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A substantial morning plate with eggs, sausages, bacon, beans, mushrooms, tomatoes, and toast, commonly found in local cafés.
Must-Try!
Roast meat with potatoes, vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, and gravy, a Sunday staple at many pubs.
Scones with clotted cream and jam, typically enjoyed with tea at a local café or tearoom.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Monthly market offering local produce, baked goods, and occasional street-food stalls along Banstead High Street.
Pop-up stalls and temporary vendors offering regional snacks and takeaway options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British queues are respected; wait your turn patiently and do not cut in.
A friendly greeting and polite conversations are appreciated; say 'please' and 'thank you'.
Let passengers alight before boarding; give up seats to those in need, especially on crowded services.
Safety
Tipping in Banstead
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is discretionary; in restaurants, 10-15% is customary if service is good; rounding up at pubs is common.
Card payments and contactless are widely accepted; cash is still useful in smaller venues and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Flora blooms in parks and woods; after wet periods trails can be muddy; wear waterproofs and sturdy shoes.
Warm days with occasional breezes; longer daylight hours encourage outdoor dining and walking.
Autumn colors in woodlands; cooler evenings; bring layers and a light jacket for cooler temps.
Cool to cold with variable rainfall; cozy pubs and indoor activities are popular; stay prepared for wet weather.
Banstead at Night
Hiking in Banstead
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Open grassland with easy-to-moderate trails and viewpoints.
Racing course area with expansive views and rolling hills; good for longer walks.
Popular hilltop area with varied trails and panoramic views over the North Downs.
Airports
How to reach Banstead by plane.
Major international hub about 30-45 minutes by car or train from Banstead; extensive flight connections and rail links.
Major international hub about 45-60 minutes by car; good access via road and rail services.
Gateway for short-haul flights, about 1 hour away by car/train with efficient urban connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of Banstead residents are families seeking good schools and parks.
Many residents commute to London or Croydon for work, balancing countryside living with city access.
A significant number of long-standing residents with strong community ties.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Banstead Downs Golf Club offers scenic rounds on rolling downs with countryside views.
Local clubs train and play on community pitches; matches and leagues are common in the area.
Cricket matches and nets are popular in village greens during summer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Banstead.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafés offer vegetarian mains; ask for veggie specials or sides if needed.
Many venues can accommodate vegan diets; request plant-based dishes or salads, and check desserts.
Look for clearly labeled gluten-free options; inform staff about gluten intolerance for cross-contamination concerns.