As a first entry to the Surrey Pub Guy'd it made sense to start with a bang, and the Botley Hill Farmhouse certainly provides this! Recently under new management, the renovation of the pub has regenerated it's homely, country feel. The pub effortlessly achieves a comfortable, country house atmosphere and is a warm, welcoming environment to its punters.
The staff are not only friendly but keen to get to know their customers, making you feel instantly welcome and relaxed. Service is fast and informative, members of staff suggesting both wine and beer that might suit the particular taste of the customer. The bar area is bustling without being overcrowded and has a number of small tables for couples who just want a drink and a snack. Even in the bar area the staff are always on the ball, enquiring if you might want another drink or something to eat, meaning a trip to the bar is never necessary!
The outside space has unbelievably stunning views across the Surrey countryside. As the name suggests the pub is set right in the middle of what is still working farmland, meaning that as you sip on your drinks and look across the valley you can watch the local sheep grazing and just generally going about their business across the hillside. Tranquil, beautiful and peaceful.
Moving into the restaurant the atmosphere is homely and romantic. There are a mixture of large tables for bigger parties and smaller, cosy areas for couples, including a very quaint 'snug' area with its very own log burner. Tables are set far apart enough for customers to feel they have privacy while they dine, but isn't so sparse the space feels empty. The owners have achieved the right balance with their business, resulting in a cosy, popular traditional farmhouse pub.
The menu is typical 'gastro pub' fare, with something for everyone. The 'nibbles' available are noteworthy, offering some of the largest olives I have ever experienced! Selecting the 'wasabi peanuts' I was satisfied with both the amount served and the flavour (no one wants too many wasabi snacks, I've learned the hard way!). After sampling the 'bar' experience the manager showed us to our table, we were pleased to be told that he had upgraded us to a nicer space than we had originally been allocated (after a small amount of bonding over our love of pugs). We were given the snug which was private without being secluded. The snug's log-burner would be a welcomed extra during the winter months. Sampling the burger and 'duck breast' (accompanied by dauphinoise potatoes and vegetables - photo above), we were extremely satisfied with our choice! Unfortunately we were too full for desert, maybe next time eh?
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