Leatherhead Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local culture in Leatherhead, England with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Leatherhead

Leatherhead is a charming town located in Surrey, in South East England, UK. Its rich history and natural beauty attract visitors from around the world. It’s a great place to explore, with plenty of cultural attractions, natural wonders, and exciting activities to keep you entertained.

List of Places to Visit in Leatherhead

If you’re planning a trip to Leatherhead, here are some must-visit places that you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Leatherhead Museum: A local museum that explores the history and culture of Leatherhead through a collection of artifacts and exhibits.
  • Bocketts Farm Park: A historic farm that provides a glimpse into rural life in the area. It’s fun for the whole family with animals, trampolines, and hayrides.
  • Polesden Lacey: A spectacular stately home and gardens offering a unique insight into the Edwardian life.

Natural Attractions of Leatherhead: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Box Hill: A great place for hiking and cycling with breathtaking views of the countryside.
  • Norbury Park: A vast area of scenic woodland where you can enjoy walking and cycling routes.
  • Leatherhead Common: A huge open space perfect for picnics, kite flying, and a walk in nature.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Leatherhead

Leatherhead is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with exceptional hiking and biking routes. Here are some options for adventurers:

  • Along the River Mole Walk: A serene and relaxing walk along the River Mole that is perfect for a family outing.
  • The Polesden Lacey Circular Route: A straightforward hike with spectacular views and plenty of resting opportunities.
  • Route 22: A popular route for cyclists that takes you through some of the most stunning parts of the region.

Best Things to Do in Leatherhead: Activities and Tours

  • Explore the caves: Beneath the town, there’s an extensive network of tunnels known as the Leatherhead Caves, a historic attraction for all to enjoy.
  • Visit the theatre: The Leatherhead Theatre has been entertaining visitors since 1969, offering an array of shows, music, and events.
  • Wine Tasting Tour: These tours are perfect for those who are passionate about wine, visiting the beautiful vineyards and tasting the award-winning wine.

Week-Long Itinerary for Leatherhead

Here’s a suggested 7-day itinerary for your trip to Leatherhead:

Day Activity/Place to Visit
1 The Leatherhead Museum
2 Box Hill Hiking Trail
3 Bocketts Farm Park
4 Visit to Polesden Lacey House & Gardens
5 River Mole walk
6 Wine Tasting Tour
7 Theatre at Leatherhead

Food and Drink Scene of Leatherhead

Leatherhead has a thriving food and drink scene, with various local delicacies and beverages to try out.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sunday Roast with locally farmed meat.
  • Indian cuisine restaurants offering spicy curries and dishes made with authentic spices.
  • Crab cakes made from fresh local crabmeat at a specialty fish shop.

Local Beverages

  • Real Ale - the traditionally-produced English beer that is a must-try for any beer lovers.
  • English Wines - Vineyards offer locally produced wines that are gaining a reputation for being of top-notch quality.

Where to Stay in Leatherhead: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Leatherhead has plenty of accommodation options to cater to all budgets and preferences. Here are some recommendations:

  • Woodlands Park Hotel: A luxury hotel that combines elegant and historic charm with modern amenities.
  • The Running Horse: An affordable and comfortable bed and breakfast spot located in the town centre.
  • Swan Center Lodge: A budget-friendly option located on the outskirts of town, with easy access to the nearby hilly countryside for exploration.

What to Buy in Leatherhead: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Local Honey - Leatherhead is known for producing top-quality organic honey that you can take home for sweet memories.
  • Leatherhead pottery - A specialty pottery that has been made in the area for hundreds of years, featuring intricate handmade designs and motifs.

Local Culture and Customs of Leatherhead

Leatherhead residents are proud of their town and customs, and visitors can learn a lot from them. The town is known for its rich history and beautiful surroundings. The locals are friendly and welcoming to visitors, so travelers are expected to be courteous and respectful to them.

Best Time to Visit Leatherhead

The best time to visit Leatherhead is during the summer between June and August, when the weather is warm and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, spring and fall offer mild temperatures, and fewer crowds, making them ideal seasons for peaceful exploration.

Do’s and Don’ts of Leatherhead

Do:

  • Respect the culture and local traditions.
  • Always wear proper attire when visiting religious sites or cultural events.
  • Try the local cuisine and delicacies.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places, respecting the environment.
  • Wear inappropriate attire, revealing too much skin, or too casual for formal establishments
  • Disrespect the local beliefs and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Leatherhead

Leatherhead is a safe place to visit, with relatively low crime rates. Visitors are advised to take general safety precautions such as keeping valuables secure in public crowded places.

Health in Leatherhead

Travelers to Leatherhead should always have travel insurance, and have up-to-date vaccinations before their visit. The town has good healthcare facilities available, and good hospitals are accessible in emergency scenarios.

Getting to Leatherhead: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Leatherhead

The nearest airports to Leatherhead are London Gatwick Airport and London Heathrow Airport that are respectively 18 miles and 30 miles from the town centre.

Bus Stations Near Leatherhead

Leatherhead is well-connected to the bus network in the UK. Buses to the town operate from nearby towns and villages such as Epsom, Dorking, and Kingston.

Other Options

Trains from London Waterloo Station take around 30 minutes to reach Leatherhead, providing a convenient and budget-friendly option for travelers. If you prefer renting a car, there are several reputable car rental companies located in the town.

How to Get Around in Leatherhead

Leatherhead town centre corresponds to a particular walking path that one can easily walk around it. Bus and train services are available to visit nearby local attractions. You can also rent a bike to explore the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Leatherhead: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Leatherhead is a perfect base for nearby excursions, particularly to:

  • The city of London that is within a 30-minute train ride from the town centre.
  • Attend Epsom Derby horse races.
  • The beautiful countryside villages like Dorking, Guildford, and Boxhill to explore the nature.

Conclusion

Leatherhead is a historical and cultural gem waiting to be explored, offering beautiful natural sites, exciting activities, and outstanding local cuisine. The town is a perfect weekend getaway destination for those who love to learn about history and explore nature. With plenty of accommodation options and good transport connections, Leatherhead is an unforgettable destination waiting to be discovered.

St Johns School (geograph 6276547) St Johns School (geograph 6276547) The Running Horse The Running Horse