There’s something magical about Surrey in winter: frosty footpaths, soft morning light settling on woods, commons and hillsides, and the promise of a roaring pub fire at the end of a crisp walk. If you’re looking for inspiration for your next cosy day out, here’s a collection of some of Surrey’s loveliest pubs - each paired with a short, easy walk and a few nearby gems worth exploring.

 

The Bell at Outwood

The Bell in Outwood

Dating back to 1635, The Bell is as cosy as pubs come - woodsmoke, real ales and a proper countryside atmosphere. Step outside and you’ll find some of Surrey’s most peaceful woodland pathways.

Short walk option:

A short, easy ramble through the Harewoods and Outwood Common area. Expect woodland, open heath and gentle tracks - the perfect way to work up an appetite.

While you’re there:

  • The iconic Outwood Windmill, a gorgeous bit of local heritage and a great photo stop.

 

The Brickmakers in Windlesham

The Brickmakers in Windlesham

Warm, friendly and reliably hearty, The Brickmakers is everything a village pub should be. Whether you’re calling in for lunch or a quiet pint, it’s the perfect anchor for a chilled winter day.

Short walk option:

Try the Windlesham Loop - just over 2km of lanes, fields and gentle woodland. Short, sweet and refreshing.

While you’re there:

 

The Dolphin in Betchworth, Surrey

The Dolphin, Betchworth

Owned by Dorking Brewery, The Dolphin is a classic 17th-century Surrey country pub right in the heart of Betchworth village. With flagstone floors, roaring log fires and a spacious beer garden, this welcoming pub serves excellent real ales. It’s the sort of place to linger over a pint or a Sunday roast while warming up from the chill of the countryside.

Short walk option:

Head out along quiet lanes towards the River Mole, enjoying views across the Surrey Hills, then follow a gentle footpath beside the river before looping back through Betchworth’s pretty lanes and lanes through fields. You’ll pass historic St Michael’s Church - featured in Four Weddings and a Funeral.

While you're there:

  • Betchworth Quarry & Lime Kilns - a fascinating nature reserve
  • St Michael’s Church - historic village church with Norman origins and connections to film history
  • Dorking Brewery & Taproom - The Dorking Brewery "mothership" is a 15-minute drive away down country lanes. 

 

The Drummond at Albury

The Drummond at Albury

Sitting in the heart of Albury, The Drummond is everything you want from a winter pub: wooden beams, snug corners, seasonal dishes and fires that seem purpose-built for thawing out after a walk. Right behind it flows the Tillingbourne - the perfect backdrop for a short winter wander.

Bonus: The Drummond has boutique rooms to extend your stay.

Short walk option:

A simple 20/30 minute loop along the river, through the old mill area, and back via the church. It’s flat, peaceful and ideal if you want just a taste of the outdoors before settling in for a long lunch.

While you’re there:

 

The Four Horseshoes Chobham

The Four Horseshoes in Chobham

Set right beside Chobham Common, it’s the ideal pub for walkers - relaxed, welcoming and moments from the heather-lined trails.

Short walk option:

A 3.5-4-mile circuit across Chobham Common: wide skies, sandy tracks, winter colours and some of Surrey’s most distinctive nature.

While you’re there:

  • Bisley Shooting Ground - world-class clay shooting in peaceful, forested surroundings.
  • Pennyhill Park Hotel - a luxurious countryside retreat with indulgent spa
  • Chobham Adventure Farm - lively indoor-outdoor play with plenty of animals to meet.
  • No.15 restaurant - a stylish village spot for modern dining and relaxed, refined flavours.

 

Kingfisher on the Quay in Mytchett

Kingfisher on the Quay near Mytchett

Sitting right on the water, Kingfisher on the Quay offers log fires, lakeside views and a tranquil atmosphere - especially lovely in winter when mist hangs over the lake.

Short walk option:

The Waterside Loop (about 1–1.5 hours) circles the lake and waterways. It’s gentle, scenic and perfect for clearing your head before returning to the warmth indoors.

While you’re there:

 

The Old House in Dorking, Surrey

The Old House, Dorking

Owned by Dorking Brewery, The Old House dates back to the 14th century and is one of Dorking’s most historic and characterful pubs. Set in a timber-framed building close to the town centre, it offers a warm and welcoming retreat with locally brewed ales.

Short walk option: 

Step straight from town into the countryside with a gentle circular walk via the Deepdene Trail - or head over to Denbies Wine Estate and Denbies Hillside for cinematic views. 

While you're there: 

 

The Richard Onslow in Cranleigh

The Richard Onslow in Cranleigh

In the centre of Cranleigh, The Richard Onslow blends boutique-inn warmth with the friendliness of a real village local. It’s perfect for a relaxed winter drink, a Sunday roast or a hearty post-walk meal.

Bonus: The Richard Onslow has boutique rooms to extend your stay.

Short walk option:

Take an easy wander around the Cranleigh village loop, where quiet streets meet fields and footpaths. It’s an unfussy little walk that works especially well on chilly days.

While you’re there:

 

The Sun Inn Chobham

The Sun Inn in Chobham

On the High Street, this charming, character-filled pub with open fires makes a brilliant starting or finishing point for a gentle wander through the village.

Short walk option:

A 3.5-4-mile circuit across Chobham Common: wide skies, sandy tracks, winter colours and some of Surrey’s most distinctive nature.

While you’re there:

  • Bisley Shooting Ground - world-class clay shooting in peaceful, forested surroundings.
  • Pennyhill Park Hotel - a luxurious countryside retreat with indulgent spa
  • Chobham Adventure Farm - lively indoor-outdoor play with plenty of animals to meet.
  • No.15 restaurant - a stylish village spot for modern dining and relaxed, refined flavours.

 

The Swan Inn by Jose Pizarro Claygate

The Swan Inn by José Pizarro in Claygate

Facing the village green, The Swan Inn by José Pizarro pairs classic English-pub character with a modern, stylish touch and vibrant Spanish dishes. Think warm lighting, comfortable corners and fantastic food.

Bonus: The Swan Inn has boutique rooms to extend your stay.

Short walk option:

Head out to Claygate Common, a pocket of quiet woodland just minutes from the pub. Winter brings bare branches, birdsong and a real sense of rural calm.

While you’re there:

  • Claygate - A wander through Claygate’s boutique shops.
  • Esher Commons – expansive heath and woodland perfect for peaceful walks.
  • Claremont Landscape Garden – an elegant historic escape.
  • Sandown Park Racecourse – thrilling race days paired with stunning views.

 

View of Leith Hill Tower in winter, Leith Hill, Surrey.

Final Thoughts: winter at its best in Surrey

Winter is the season for fresh air, glowing fires and hearty food - and Surrey is overflowing with places to wander and warm up. Whether you want a 20-minute potter by a stream or a bracing heathland or hilltop loop, each of these pubs offers the ideal combination of landscape, comfort and local character.

Get on the Visit Surrey map

Put your pub on the Surrey map - join Visit Surrey and get your venue in front of a million visitors, every year. Find out about Visit Surrey membership options.