Hidden Surrey - Cobham

Listed buildings, TV locations and historical curiosities

In the district of Elmbridge, on the River Mole, is the village of Cobham. To some, Cobham is best known for its M25 service station and private schools. However, the village has more to offer than a well-timed travel break. Despite only being 17 miles from south-west London, Cobham has a strong rural feel and is littered with hidden gems.

Painshill

This elegant 18th century landscape garden is perfect for keen photographers. It is also a great day out for Bridgerton fans, who may recognise it as the set for the season three air balloon scenes.

Inspired by Grand Tours across Europe and landscape painting, the park has a lake, a vineyard, many follies, and a beautiful man-made cave. For more information, see the interactive site map.

Tickets can be booked online or on the door. All proceeds go towards the protection and preservation of the park for future generations.

Portsmouth Road, Cobham KT11 1BE

Chatley Heath Semaphore Tower

Photo credit: John Miller

Cobham is home to Britain's only surviving semaphore tower. These were used in the 1800s to send signals between London and the coast in the Napoleonic era. For more information, visit the Landmark Trust website.

The building now operates as a bed and breakfast. However, the tower is occasionally opened to the public, so you can climb the 100 steps for spectacular views across west London.

Pointers Road, Cobham KT11 1PQ

Discover Downside circular walk

This challenging circular walk from Cobham is a great way to discover local history and wildlife. In addition to the beautiful countryside and semaphore tower mentioned above, this walk takes you past Grade I listed St Andrew's Church, over Downside Bridge, and past Chatley Heath.

Downside Bridge Road, Cobham KT11 3DQ

Cobham Mill

This Grade II listed building is the only surviving fully working watermill in Surrey. Now completely operated and maintained by volunteers, it brings history to life using restored 19th century machinery. The mill is open to the public from 2pm until 5pm every second Sunday of the month between April and October. The remaining open days for 2024 are 8 September and 13 October.

Mill Road, Cobham, KT11 3AL

Paintballing

Did you know that the countryside around Cobham and Downside boasts a high number of paintballing establishments? Why not take a trip with friends or family and see who emerges victorious?

Arts and Culture Map

Have you checked out the Arts and Culture map? You can find lots more arts and culture activities and organisations in your local area. Maybe there are a few you didn't know about?

Do you live in Cobham?

Gaby is the Community Link Officer (CLO) for Elmbridge. She is out and about in the local area meeting people, listening to local issues, and making connections to make changes happen. She is part of our Team Around the Community approach.

Follow Gaby on Facebook to find out what's going on in Elmbridge. Take a look at the Make It Happen Local Area webpages for Elmbridge to find local community groups and ways in which you can get involved.

You can also check out the Cobham Library webpages for a range of events and activities.

We want to hear from you

We love hearing yo passion for and knowledge about your own localities. Let us know what you would like to see featured in surreymatters@surreycc.gov.uk.