Surrey, Sussex & Kent
The scenery of this part of England is varied yet distinctive: the South Downs rolling down to the cliffs at Beachy Head, the sparsely wooded heathland of the Ashdown Forest, and the intricate landscapes of the Weald. The National Trust protects some of the best stretches of countryside and many fine houses and outstanding gardens. Apart from houses such as Bateman’s, much-loved family home of Rudyard Kipling, the enchanting Bodiam Castle, Petworth House and Park with its sumptuous interiors and rolling parkland, Polesden Lacey on the North Downs and Chartwell, family home of Sir Winston Churchill, the Trust also owns several glorious gardens including Nymans Garden, Sheffield Park Garden and Sissinghurst Castle Garden. There is a holiday home at Standen – approximately half way between London and the south coast. Alternatively, you can choose Saxon Cottage, a delightful thatched cottage in Steyning, Frensham Common Cottage near Hindhead, or Garden Cottage at Polesden Lacey. To the west of the capital, the River Thames meanders majestically through the verdant countryside. This is a region of contrasts, with magnificent historic houses and beautiful varied countryside, offering some of the finest scenery in Southern England, yet within easy reach of central London by train. Sitting on a cliff-top on one of the most idyllic stretches of the Thames, Cliveden has magnificent Grade I listed gardens and woodlands for guests at our two cottages to enjoy.

Polesden Lacey
Originally a Regency house Polesden Lacey stands on the North Downs and has magnificent far-reaching views. It was extensively re-modelled in 1906-09 by the Hon. Mrs Ronald Greville, a well known Edwardian hostess, and the future King George VI and the Queen Mother spent part of their honeymoon here in 1923. The house contains the Grevilles’ collection of fine paintings, furniture, porcelain and silver displayed as they were when the house was in its heyday. There are extensive grounds, a walled rose garden, lawns and landscaped walks. Garden Cottage, the former head gardener’s cottage, stands in a quiet corner of these grounds with fine views, particularly from the bedroom upstairs. Holiday Cottage guests have free entry to Polesden Lacey house during opening hours and access to the gardens out of hours.

National Trust places nearby: Ludshott Common, Oakhurst Cottage, Winkworth Arboretum, The Witley Centre. Shop and pub: Farm Shop at Polesden Lacey, Haslemere and Goldaming. Tea-room/café/restaurant: Restaurant at Polesden Lacey, café at Devil's Punch Bowl, Farnham and Goldaming. Railway station: Boxhill, Westhumble. Other attractions: Surrey Hill, North Down Way, Loseley Park, Bird World. Activities: walking, horse riding, cycling.

Ordnance Survey Landranger Map 187