Great Bookham
,Great Bookham is a picturesque village located in Surrey, United Kingdom. It is known for its charming countryside setting and historic architecture, including the grand St. Nicolas' Church. The village also offers a variety of quaint shops, traditional pubs, and welcoming tearooms for visitors to enjoy.
Surrounded by beautiful walking trails and scenic landscapes, Great Bookham is a peaceful destination for those seeking a relaxing retreat.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Great Bookham
morning
:Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Afterward, take a stroll through the picturesque Bookham Common.
afternoon
:Visit the historic St. Nicolas Church and admire its beautiful architecture. Enjoy a packed lunch in the charming village square.
evening
:Dine at a traditional pub and experience classic British cuisine. Wind down with a serene walk under the evening sky.
Nature Walks
morning
:Begin with a refreshing morning walk in the scenic Green Lane. The beauty of nature will awaken your senses.
afternoon
:Have a picnic lunch surrounded by lush greenery. Post-lunch, explore the local wildlife and enjoy the tranquility.
evening
:Join a guided evening nature tour if available. Experience the sounds and sights of wildlife as the day transitions into night.
Highlights
Good
- Picturesque village setting with beautiful countryside
- Strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere
- Good local amenities including shops and schools
- Proximity to transport links for easy access to London
- Rich history and character with historical buildings
Bad
- Higher cost of living compared to nearby towns
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Potential for traffic congestion in peak hours
- May have limited job opportunities in specific sectors
- Public transport options may be less frequent
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in Bookham Commons
Explore the scenic trails in Bookham Commons, which features beautiful woodlands, meadows, and diverse wildlife. Ideal for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful walk.
Cycling along the River Mole
Enjoy a cycling adventure along the River Mole, where you can appreciate picturesque views and the serene environment of the Surrey countryside.
Visit Painshill Park
Take a short drive to Painshill Park, an 18th-century landscaped garden with stunning views, walking trails, and a vineyard. Perfect for a day out with family or friends.
Picnicking at Great Bookham Common
Spend a relaxing day with friends or family at Great Bookham Common, where you can enjoy picnicking amidst beautiful natural surroundings.
Birdwatching at the Bookham Common Nature Reserve
Visit the local nature reserve for birdwatching opportunities. Spot various bird species and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Great Bookham with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Bookham Commons
A mix of woodland and open heathland offering expansive views and beautiful landscapes. Ideal for nature photography and capturing sunset views.
Great Bookham Village
Charming village scenes featuring historic buildings, quaint shops, and beautiful gardens. Perfect for capturing the essence of English village life.
St. Nicholas Church
This historic church has stunning architectural features and is surrounded by picturesque grounds, making it a great spot for photography.
Bookham Windmill
A working windmill set against a backdrop of the Surrey countryside. The windmill offers unique photo opportunities, especially during the golden hour.
Leatherhead Road
A scenic road that runs through the area, providing beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, particularly in the spring and summer months.
Great Bookham Common
A large area of natural beauty with open spaces and woodland, perfect for landscape photography and capturing wildlife.
The Old Barn
A beautifully restored barn that showcases traditional architectural styles, offering a rustic backdrop for photos.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steak and Ale Pie
A hearty British classic, featuring succulent chunks of beef cooked in rich ale-based gravy, encased in flaky pastry. A must-try dish at The Grumpy Mole, a renowned local pub.
Must-Try!
Eton Mess
A delectable dessert composed of crushed meringue, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream. Indulge in this delightful treat at The Stephan Langton Inn, a charming gastropub in the heart of Great Bookham.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Great Bookham better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Great Bookham Farmers' Market
Visit the monthly farmers' market to savor the finest local produce, artisanal cheeses, freshly baked bread, and delectable homemade jams. The market also offers a variety of street food stalls featuring gourmet burgers, wood-fired pizzas, and international street food delights.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Politeness
British culture places a high value on politeness. Always say 'please', 'thank you', and 'sorry' when appropriate, as it shows respect and consideration for others.
Queuing Etiquette
Staying in line and waiting your turn is a fundamental norm in the UK. Cutting in line is considered rude, so always join the queue and wait patiently.
Conversational Topics
When engaging in conversation, it's best to avoid sensitive topics such as politics and religion initially. Instead, focus on neutral subjects like the weather or local events to foster a friendly atmosphere.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Great Bookham with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Great Bookham, as in the rest of the UK, tipping practices vary by service. It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare or adding a small tip is common. In pubs, it is usual to buy the bartender a drink as a tip for good service.
Payment
Payment methods in Great Bookham include cash, credit and debit cards, as well as contactless payments. Many establishments accept card payments, and there has been a significant shift towards digital and contactless transactions, especially since the pandemic. It is advisable to check if a place accepts cards beforehand.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Great Bookham.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) is a delightful time to visit Great Bookham. The weather begins to warm up, with temperatures ranging from 7°C to 15°C. Expect blooming flowers, particularly in local gardens and parks, and an abundance of greenery. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring local nature reserves.
Summer
Summer (June to August) offers the warmest weather, with temperatures averaging between 15°C to 25°C. This season is perfect for enjoying outdoor festivals, picnics, and local events. Visitors can expect plenty of sunshine, making it a great time for walking and cycling in the countryside.
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) brings mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C, along with beautiful fall foliage. This is a wonderful time for hiking and enjoying the changing colors of the landscape. Visitors can also experience local harvest events and farmers' markets.
Winter
Winter (December to February) in Great Bookham tends to be cold, with temperatures ranging from 1°C to 8°C. Visitors can expect occasional frost and possibly snow. This season is ideal for enjoying cozy indoor activities, festive events, and local winter markets. It's a quieter time with fewer tourists.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Box Hill
A famous beauty spot with stunning views over the Surrey Hills, offering various trails and a visitor center.
Leith Hill
The highest point in Southeast England, providing extensive hiking trails through woodlands and heathland.
Norbury Park
A lovely park with several walking paths, woodlands, and open fields, perfect for a leisurely hike.
Newlands Corner
A popular viewpoint and picnic area with a variety of circular walking routes through the Surrey Hills.
Hurtwood Forest
A large area of beautiful woodlands with numerous trails, ideal for hiking and exploring nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Great Bookham through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Great Bookham by plane.
London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
The primary international airport serving London and the busiest in the UK, located approximately 11 miles east of Great Bookham.
London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
The second largest airport serving London, located about 24 miles south of Great Bookham.
London City Airport (LCY)
A major international airport in London, situated roughly 35 miles east of Great Bookham.
London Stansted Airport (STN)
Located approximately 45 miles northeast of Great Bookham, it is one of the main airports serving London.
London Luton Airport (LTN)
Located about 40 miles north of Great Bookham, this airport is a significant gateway for international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
White British
The largest demographic group in Great Bookham, representing the majority of the population.
Other White
Includes individuals from European countries and other white backgrounds.
Asian or Asian British
Includes South Asian, East Asian, and other Asian ethnicities.
Black, Black British, Caribbean or African
Includes individuals from African and Caribbean backgrounds.
Mixed or Multiple Ethnic Groups
Individuals who identify as having mixed heritage or belong to multiple ethnic groups.
Other Ethnic Groups
Includes various ethnic groups that do not fit into the above categories.
The Soul of Great Bookham
Discover the essence of Great Bookham through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
A widely popular team sport played by two teams of eleven players, known for its local clubs and community involvement.
Cricket
A summer sport with a deep-rooted tradition in the UK, played with bat and ball between two teams of eleven players, often enjoyed in local parks and leagues.
Rugby
A contact sport that has strong local support, with various clubs in the area that participate in regional competitions.
Tennis
Played both recreationally and competitively, with several local courts and clubs supporting the sport.
Netball
A popular team sport, especially among women, featuring fast-paced play and often played in schools and local clubs.
Cycling
A favored activity for both leisure and competition, with many scenic routes in and around Great Bookham.
Running
An increasingly popular activity, with various running clubs and events organized in the local community.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Great Bookham's eateries are accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many offering dedicated menus featuring innovative plant-based dishes. The Stephan Langton Inn, for example, offers a delectable vegan shepherd's pie.
Gluten-Free Dining
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy a range of gluten-free options at The Grumpy Mole, including gluten-free fish and chips made with a light, crispy batter.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Great Bookham with these cultural adventures.
