Car Hire Bookham

Framed by commons, farmland and winding country lanes, Bookham offers a grounded, outdoorsy base in the heart of Surrey. It’s just off the A246 and easy to reach by car from places like Leatherhead and Epsom. The village with around 11 thousand residents works best for those exploring by road—access is simple, parking is easy and most of its best spots are spread out beyond walking distance.

Climate-wise, Bookham enjoys mild, damp winters and pleasantly dry summers. Late spring to early autumn is ideal for walking and scenic drives. Pack for the outdoors, especially if you’re planning to explore nature reserves or head further afield into the hills. Events at Polesden Lacey draw visitors during holidays but otherwise the village stays low-key. It’s not crowded. It doesn’t need to be.

Attractions In Bookham

Exploring Bookham is best done slowly—and with your own wheels. Trails slip into woods just beyond residential roads, country estates are set well back from main routes and even a quick detour can land you in a surprising bit of history or nature.

National Trust – Polesden Lacey

Driving up the narrow country lane that leads to Polesden Lacey, the landscape starts to open. This historic estate is as much about what surrounds the house as what’s inside. The gardens change with the season, the walking paths loop past grazing fields and there’s plenty of space to park. It’s open daily from 10am to 4pm—good for a full day or a couple of hours before a drive.

Bocketts Farm Park

Just a short drive east, Bocketts Farm is perfect for families with young children. With clear signs, on-site parking and plenty of space for strollers and buggies, it’s an easy stop for anyone exploring by car. There are animal encounters, outdoor play areas and shaded seating for parents. A favourite for those based in Ashtead or beyond.

Bookham Commons

Bookham Commons sits tucked between local roads and feels surprisingly wild for something so close to town. We drove down Church Road and parked up near one of the small laybys—from there, trails stretch in all directions. A good option if you’re looking for something close to the village centre but still properly rural. It’s well-known to walkers from Cobham and Fetcham.

Norbury Park

Sprawling across the hills toward Dorking, Norbury Park is one of those places that doesn’t try too hard to impress. It simply exists—big, beautiful and full of open sky. From the upper ridge, we caught a clear view over the Mole Gap, framed by the chalky banks of Box Hill in the distance.

It’s a space that works in all seasons but the light in late spring gives the woods and fields a kind of glow that’s hard to explain.

Isle Of Wight Pond

Harder to find unless you’re local, this small pond sits on the edge of Bookham Commons. We spotted a few places to leave the car near the junction at the Commonside entrance and took a short walk in. There’s no signage but that’s part of the appeal. On our way back to Ripley, we were glad we made the short detour.

Garden Cottage

Part of the wider Polesden Lacey estate, Garden Cottage is where the crowds tend to thin out. The road narrows, the trees close in and it all feels just a little more secluded. You’ll want a car to get here—walking’s an option but you’ll trade ease for effort. Inside, the cottage and nearby gardens are a peaceful contrast to the estate’s busier spots.

Bookham Common Bird Hide

The bird hide sits just off Commonside, reachable with a short walk from the car park near the main path. It’s simple, quiet and genuinely restful. Those who drive in from Tadworth and surrounding villages tend to know it well—it’s a go-to for watching without distraction.

Spring Grove Park

We parked up near Lower Road and wandered into Spring Grove Park through a small wooden gate. It’s a modest green space, mostly grass and pond but ideal if you’re looking to stretch your legs without committing to a long walk. Not a destination in itself but easy to work into a short route.

Barnes Wallis Grave

This one’s less than 10 minutes away by car, tucked into the churchyard at Effingham. The grave of Sir Barnes Wallis—wartime engineer and inventor—is quietly positioned under the shade of older trees. It’s not signposted from main roads, so having your own vehicle helps. Combine it with other local heritage stops or just take a peaceful break en route.

Iris & Colin’s Bench

You’ll likely pass the turn-off while navigating Bookham Court—blink and you might miss it. We parked nearby and walked a few minutes to reach this quietly situated bench. It doesn’t offer sweeping views or formal paths but if you’re looking to pause mid-drive, it does the job. On this particular day, we were heading back toward Albury and stopped just long enough to clear our heads.

A Quick Drive Away

Bookham makes an easy base for short drives. Whether you’re looping through scenic lanes or dipping into the edges of the Surrey Hills, it’s well connected. Nearby towns like Dorking offer antique shops and local breweries, while country pubs line the quieter B-roads.

Where To Eat And Stay In Bookham

For drivers, it’s good to know that parking in Bookham is straightforward. The Anchor on Lower Road has its own lot and a peaceful beer garden out back. Expect traditional pub fare—pies, roasts and local ales—in a proper village setting.

The Old Crown, closer to the High Street, is family-friendly and walkable from most of the central village. It has regular music nights and a rear garden that’s surprisingly spacious for the area.

If you’re staying overnight, there are guesthouses scattered through Great Bookham but if you’re looking to drive further out, Thatcher’s Hotel in East Horsley is a reliable option with parking, a Tudor exterior and a quiet feel that suits the area’s pace.