The County of Surrey

About

Surrey located in the South East of England is one of the Home Counties. The county borders Greater London, Kent, East Sussex, West Sussex, Hampshire, and Berkshire and is divided into 11 boroughs and districts:

Explore Regional Destinations

All of our regions have something unique to offer.  Discover a world of vibrant historic market towns, admire the scenic landscapes and enjoy local produce.  Discover more about some of our regions.

Discover beautiful Surrey Countryside

Despite its location next to London, Surrey contains a great deal of mature woodland. Among its many notable beauty spots are Box Hill, Leith Hill, Frensham Ponds, Newlands Corner and Puttenham and Crooksbury Commons. It is the most wooded county in Great Britain, with 22.4% coverage. Box Hill has the oldest untouched area of natural woodland in the UK, one of the oldest in Europe.

Much of Surrey is in the Green Belt and rolling downland, the county's geology being dominated by the chalk hills of the North Downs. There are many commons with an extensive network of footpaths and bridleways including the North Downs Way. Towards the north of the county, the land is largely flat around Staines and borders the River Thames. The highest elevation in Surrey is Leith Hill near Dorking at 965 ft (294 m) above sea level, is the highest point in southeastern England.  Embark on a journey through the Surrey Hills and discover some of Surrey scenic highlights.

Uncover Historical Surrey

Surrey’s history The name Surrey is Saxon meaning "South Ridge" though later the name of the area was Sudergeona or "southern". Little remains of the Roman or the Saxon periods in Surrey exist. However there is an Iron Age hillfort at Holmbury Hill and remnants of the Roman roads Stane Street and Ermine Street. The title of Earl of Surrey was given as reward for loyalty during the rebellion that followed the death of William I of England, with the signing of the great charter at Runnymede in 1215.

Experience amazing things to do in Surrey

​​​​​​You will find that there is always plenty to do in a county where old traditions and institutions such as royal residences, cream teas and cricket rub shoulders with modern architecture, contemporary theatre, international horse racing (including the world-renowned Derby held each year in June), excellent sporting facilities and state-of-the-art theme parks. Surrey is also renowned for gardening, with the RHS’s flagship RHS Garden Wisley, along with the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in Greater London.

Experience first-hand the very latest in music at a festival or in the pubs and clubs that abound. Or visit our imposing stately homes with their beautifully maintained landscape gardens where, for centuries, celebrated artists, musicians and literary figures have found inspiration.

Our comprehensive public transport network means that you can leave your car at home and discover the area with ease by simply hopping on a bus, train or even boat.

Famous people from Surrey

Learn about some notable locals 

Facts about Surrey

Get to know some interesting facts about our beautiful county.

Weird and Wonderful Surrey

Did you know the first known record of cricket was in Guildford Surrey?  Discover some more weird and wonderful facts about Surrey.

Book a Stay

Whether you stay in a cosy bed and breakfast or one of our first class spa hotels.