Car Hire Esher

The first thing you notice in Esher is the hush—not silence, exactly but a stillness that seeps from its commons, tall trees and quiet lanes that serve all of its 6,700 residents. This Surrey town, tucked between London’s western edge and the river-threaded countryside, is easy to reach via the A3 or Portsmouth Road. Whether you’re drifting in from Hersham or passing through after a trip to the coast, Esher has a way of slowing you down—in the best way.

Spring brings blossom to the hedgerows, while autumn turns the tree canopy a deep bronze. There’s no bad season to visit, though we’d suggest the warmer months if you want to make the most of its gardens, open-air spots and tucked-away walking trails.

Attractions In Esher

From elegant gardens to curious corners, Esher offers more than first impressions suggest. Some of its best spots are quietly tucked behind hedgerows or hidden in plain sight along well-walked roads.

Claremont Landscape Garden

Who knew one of Surrey’s most serene spots once hosted royal theatricals and fireworks? Along Portsmouth Road, Claremont’s sweeping lawns, ornamental lake and hidden amphitheatre still carry that old stage-like energy. Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, it’s best explored slowly, with time to pause beneath the Belvedere Tower or skim stones from the lake’s edge.

Jump In Adventure & Trampoline Park

Housed in Sandown Industrial Park, this indoor spot is ideal for energetic kids (and grown-ups). Expect trampolines, climbing zones and obstacle courses, open daily with later hours on weekends. It’s a popular choice for families coming from Chessington or beyond—and there’s good coffee for the parents.

Esher Green

This long, open space off Lammas Lane feels like the town’s front garden. Bring something from the deli, stretch out under a tree and watch the world drift past. We wandered from here to Garsons Farm—a local fixture for seasonal produce and countryside calm.

High Ropes At The Oakwood

Just off More Lane, this aerial ropes course offers high-wire walks and zip lines strung between the trees. Open select days from late morning to early evening, it’s well-suited to families and groups. The bark crunches underfoot, the harnesses clink and the adrenaline builds with every wobbly step—but the view from the top is worth it.

Esher Waterfall

More a trickle than a cascade—but all the more magical for it. This hidden waterfall is easy to miss unless you’re listening. While approaching from Thames Ditton, we stopped when the sound of water cut through the woodland quiet. Mossy rocks, dappled light and the faint rush of water—not dramatic but quietly captivating.

West End Common

This broad patch of green along Portsmouth Road blends ancient woodland, heath and low hills. The air smells of pine and bracken, especially after rain and there’s a timeless feel to the winding paths. Best explored early, before the dog walkers arrive in force.

Claygate Recreation Ground

Located on Church Road in nearby Claygate, this is a well-kept space with tennis courts, a play area and room to kick a ball. It has a welcoming, village feel. During a visit to Ripley, we swung by for a late afternoon break—the kind of spot that doesn’t need fanfare.

Elmbridge Museum

Small in size but surprisingly rich in content, this museum inside the Civic Centre on the High Street tells the story of Esher and its surrounding borough. From Roman pottery to post-war suburbia, the exhibits are thoughtfully arranged. You’ll need to book in advance but it’s worth a detour—especially if the weather turns.

Painshill

Driving in from Cobham, we couldn’t resist a loop around Painshill—a spectacular landscape garden filled with follies, bridges and even a crystal grotto. Though just outside Esher, it’s a natural addition to your day. Open daily from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, with walking routes for all paces.

Esher Memorial Cross

Set just beside Esher Green, this elegant monument quietly marks the town’s wartime history. Names are etched in stone beneath a tall cross, a reminder of lives lived and lost not so far from here. It’s easy to walk past—but hard to forget once you’ve seen it.

A Quick Note Before You Go

Esher is a town that invites you to take your time—whether you’re strolling under trees, pausing in front of a shop window or exploring a garden that hasn’t changed in centuries. There are smart cafés, classic pubs and low-key bakeries perfect for a quick bite or a long lunch. We planned our route in from Weybridge and found ourselves filling a full day without trying. If you’re coming from Walton On Thames or Molesey, the drive is short—but the stay can linger as long as you like.