Living in Cobham

Cobham is a charming, bustling little village, said to mean the curve of a river. Its origins can be traced back on the ground through Roman times to the Iron Age, and it is mentioned in the Domesday Book. In 1548, parts of Cobham were included in Henry VIII’s Honour of Hampton Court and remained so until shortly after his death. Its home to Cobham Mill, to the glorious Painshill Landscape Gardens and the restored semaphore tower on Chatley Heath.

Fairmile’s location is as tranquil as it is convenient. It’s just a 5-minute drive to Cobham village centre with its wide variety of boutique shops, a Waitrose and a fine selection of restaurants. 

The nearby mainline station has direct links to central London and the M25 and A3 are a short drive away, as are Esher and Epsom racecourses for equine lovers. And if you are looking to explore a love of travel, both Heathrow and Gatwick airports are only a 30-minute drive away – both sitting equidistant to the village.

Around Audley Fairmile

Audley Fairmile is a breath of fresh air, situated in the heart of the idyllic Surrey countryside within the ancient and much sought-after village of Cobham, nestled on the banks of the River Mole. Right on your doorstep, and created by the Honourable Charles Hamilton, is Painshill Park. This award-winning, 158-acre landscape garden, filled with stunning views and beautiful garden buildings, was one of the most important 18th century landscape parks in Europe. Nestled at the heart of the park lies Crystal Grotto — a captivating subterranean wonder which invites visitors to step back in time and marvel at its naturalistic beauty.

You can take time out and enjoy a relaxing walk around the Serpentine Lake, wander through woodland, and promenade past follies, including the Ruined Abbey, Gothic Temple and Turkish Tent.

Explore Audley Fairmile and the surrounding area of Cobham, Surrey

Surrounding area

Then there’s the National Trust’s Claremont Landscaped Garden, steeped in nearly 300 years of history. A green oasis in the heart of Surrey, it’s been the countryside retreat of queens and heirs.

Claremont is somewhere to escape everyday life and enjoy simple outdoor pleasures. There are still many unique and unexpected features to discover, including the large turf amphitheatre, grotto, Camellia Terrace and Belvedere Tower. And not forgetting the historic Hampton Court Palace, only a stone’s throw away from Claremont.

If you like to play your golf on courses in breathtaking surroundings, there are several friendly clubs situated nearby.

A large metal water wheel is partially visible on the right, overlooking a river surrounded by green vegetation and trees under a cloudy sky.

The watermill 

In Cobham, you’ll find a picturesque early 19th century mill that is Grade II* listed and is Surrey’s only remaining, fully operational watermill. Formerly a portion of a much bigger mill complex that stood next to it, today it offers an amazing opportunity to admire the original machinery restored and grinding corn again.

Red tulips and purple flowers grow densely in a garden with additional tulips and flowers in the blurred background.

Plants aplenty 

Wisley is the historic home of the Royal Horticultural Society and boasts one of the largest plant collections in the world. Every season has a different wonder to show – bulbs and blossom in spring, beautiful borders and roses in summer, stunning autumn colours and then frosty walks in winter.

A formal garden with colorful flower beds, trimmed hedges, and a circular fountain in front of a large historic brick building under a partly cloudy sky.

An historic palace 

Hampton Court Palace is just a short drive away. Offering exhibitions, tours, talks and even historic cooking classes, this historic palace provides a magnificent day out. Delight in an opportunity to immerse yourself in the dramas and private lives of Henry VIII, his wives, the queens and their children in the world of the Tudor court.

Explore the area