Tucked away from the bustle of Farnham’s quaint market town high street, four-star The Bush makes an excellent accommodation choice when it comes to a scenic Surrey weekend. Editor Sophie Ritchie shares more about this history-etched stay…
An independent hotel dating all the way back to 1618, The Bush is a property brimming with bags and bags of character (and that’s not even including the guest luggage).
Maybe it’s the ever-so-slightly Fawlty Towers style check-in, the endless unique artwork dotted about the walls or the atmospheric lounging areas that plump up the ground floor’s spaces with cushions and lavish sofas galore. Either way, this elegant property is certainly no cookie cutter lodging.
Featuring 94-rooms, which are spread across the main original building and newer wings, it’s impossible not to pick up on The Bush’s loveably cozy charm from the moment we approach the ivy-covered building and check-in for the night.
The Room
Decorated out with calming grey walls, our Vintage room is vast despite being located directly opposite the high street (which is so close that pulling the curtains feels like staring straight into the souls of the adjacent shops). It’s unsurprising where the room category draws its name from – Vintage rooms are located in the oldest and most characterful part of the hotel.
Opening the door after traversing a creaking corridor reveals a large main bedroom, complete with living room area tucked discreetly behind a corner, plus a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower. Interior-wise, think regal and elegant – kitted out with a clear blue colour scheme that subtly weaves itself into the abode’s furnishings, cushions, curtains and more.
As well as plush interiors, there’s an array of pretty artwork to admire too. Take the statement light fixtures hanging in the centre of both bedroom and living room area for example, which immediately catch one’s eye with the hanging assortment of gleaming glass baubles.
With plenty of places to perch or rest, this is a room that’s ideal for simply kicking off your shoes and unwinding within. Regardless of whether you’ve had a long day of exploring, strolling or shopping your way through Surrey, I can easily see the appeal of hunkering down for the night and cancelling all other plans.
It’s the little details that always make an impact of course. As well as a welcome platter of fresh fruit (thoughtfully wrapped with cling film to avoid sitting out in the open air for hours), the cabinet positioned underneath the TV also showcases a variety of reading material designed to help inspire and plan one’s Surrey stay. I also spy a branded notepad for any in-the-moment scribbles.
Sustainably-minded, full-sized toiletries await me in the walk-in shower – whilst the weekend getaway essential (a matching duo of fluffy enveloping robes) hang invitingly in the cupboard next to a plug-in radiator. It’s worth noting that the air conditioning can be a little temperamental within The Bush’s more archaic rooms, so make the most of these extra perks (and blankets) if necessary.
The Food & Drink
On the food front, the hotel’s ground floor delectable restaurant is ideal for an evening of refined fork action on both weekdays and weekends. Sections within the all-day menu are divided into Light Bites, Small Plates, Classics, Main Courses, Sides and Dessert – clearly aiming to cater to every type of appetite.
Me and my guest don’t waste a second (or a mouthful) when it comes to getting thoroughly stuck into the different options, ordering matching platters of cheese-laden vegan burgers with piping hot fries for our supper… plus a side of two ample-sized ruby red Malbecs for good measure.
The generous portions are as large as the rooms, and aided by the restaurant’s softly lit walls, historic wooden panels and classic artwork, there’s a relaxed sense of grandeur that is perfectly complemented by the staff’s welcoming and hospitable nature.
Breakfast is served the following morning in the adjacent Garden Room, presented as a buffet of fresh continental items plus an additional a la carte menu. The room is already buzzing with fellow guests when I sit down for a cappuccino fix – and if you’re a pastry fan, the full-sized danish swirls and croissants are bound to hit the spot.
Things To Try
1 Go for a stroll around Farnham’s town centre, which is absolutely brimming with independent shops and cafes (plus the usual yummy mummy store names). From frothy coffees and wine bars to luxury linen and trinkets, there’s bound to be something that catches your eye (and credit card) here. The cobbled Lion and Lamb yard is particularly endearing, lined with luxury household shops and a teak sculpture carving of the ‘Lion and Lamb’ biblical tale.
2 Lace up the trainers for a run. Farnham’s medieval deer park is just a stone’s throw (or short jog) from The Bush’s doorstep. Map your route within the a 131-hectare nature reserve and follow the circular trail for a hilly start to the day. You might get a little out of puff from the never-ending elevation, but the sprawling views and beautiful parkland are worth every muttered curse word on the way up.
3 If you love a day of hiking or cycling, nearby Alice Holt Forest makes an excellent afternoon or morning outing. Set within 247 hectares of beautiful sprawling forest, take to the different signposted trails on foot or wheels for a wholesome day spent in the woodland air. There’s also a handy cafe at the entrance too, should a hunger pang strike. forestryengland.uk/alice-holt-forest
Make it happen
Where: The Borough, Farnham GU9 7NN. Free parking available on-site.
Wallet: Rooms from £95.00 per night, based on two sharing.
How: Find out more and make a booking via farnhambush.com
Words by Sophie Ritchie, editor
