Hotel Review
The Bush is an independent hotel that has been welcoming guests through its doors since 1618. Steeped in history but embracing contemporary design, it’s the perfect blend of old world charm and contemporary design.
Location:
Known for its Georgian streets, historic buildings and craft heritage, Farnham is a historic market town located in the south west corner of Surrey close to the Hampshire border. For guests arriving by car, the town is conveniently located being one hour’s drive from London and easily accessible from the M3 motorway. For rail travellers, Farnham station has regular services from London Waterloo and is a 10-15 minute walk from the hotel.
Arrival and check-in:
Situated in the centre of the historic town yet nestled within its own large gardens, the hotel feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of Farnham’s high street. There are two car parks with spaces for up to 70 vehicles and we had no difficulty finding a space at around 5.00 p.m. on a Friday afternoon.
After removing our luggage from the car boot we followed a path through the well tendered gardens to the beautiful ivy-clad building. On opening the door we immediately felt warm and cosy with the entrance lobby’s roaring fire and inviting original features.
There were two receptionists on duty and with only one person ahead of us, we were soon being attended to by Meg who greeted us with a smile and checked us in very speedily.
The Room:
Due to the age of the hotel there isn’t a lift but with quite a number of ground floor rooms, I don’t think this would be a problem for guests who find it difficult to negotiate stairs. Meg offered to carry our bags up to our room on the first floor but we let her know that we could manage ourselves.
We had been booked into the Bush Suite located in the oldest and most characterful part of the hotel. The suite was elegantly decorated and with three large windows overlooking the gardens, was flooded with natural light.
The super-king size bed with its oversized mustard coloured padded headboard was extremely comfortable with its goose down pillows and a lighter than air duvet to snuggle beneath.
For relaxation, a deep filled grey sofa faced the large wall mounted television and to one side, the good sized dressing table, complete with Nespresso maker could easily double up as a desk for business travellers.
The suite also boasted a spacious dressing room, with ample hanging space, a hospitality tray with kettle, teas and coffee and an under counter fridge containing complimentary bottled water. Small pods of milk had been supplied but we were pleased to read a note telling us that fresh milk could be brought up to the room on request. I phoned reception and soon afterwards there was a knock on the door and a milk jug was handed to us which we kept in the fridge.
Moving into the stylish bathroom, this was fully equipped with a roll top bath to one side and a large, walk-in shower to the other. At our disposal were thick, fluffy towels, cotton waffle bathrobes, slippers and fragrant toiletries.
There was also an iron, board and powerful hairdryer. Wi-Fi was easy to connect to and provided a fast and reliable connection throughout the building. Although we were in the oldest part of the building with a feature fireplace and three windows, there were no draughts and our suite was lovely and warm from the moment we first arrived.
Dining:
Dinner is served in the Oak Lounge restaurant which had a very cosy feel with its exposed beams and roaring fires. We’d reserved a table for 7.00 p.m. and were shown to a window table by Francesco, the charming hotel manager. The menu offers both classic fare such as steaks, burgers, fish and chips and a selection of seasonal specialities.
Wine is available by the glass or bottle and reasonably priced and whilst sipping our glasses of Merlot we perused the menu. We both opted for skewered king prawns in a chilli butter sauce which tasted very fresh and flavoursome. For mains, I continued on the fish theme with pan fried sea bass served on a bed of noodles with a sugar snap pea and pepper stir fry. Across the table, my dining partner ordered the star anise braised pig cheeks with pomme anna potatoes, spinach and a side of green vegetables. Both our mains arrived beautifully plated and more importantly were well cooked and bursting with flavour.
Rarely able to resist a dessert, our choices of sticky toffee pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and tarte tatin served with clotted cream were both enjoyable and just the right size to end a meal. With comfortable surroundings, a relaxed atmosphere, good food and service the hotel’s restaurant was a lovely place for our evening meal.
Breakfast is served in the attractive Garden restaurant where a buffet of fresh fruit, juices, yoghurts, cereals, meat, cheese and pastries had been laid out for guests to help themselves to.
A waiter came to take our orders for cooked breakfasts and although we were quite tempted with smashed avocados on sourdough and pancakes, we both opted for traditional breakfasts. These were prepared to order and the delicious thick sausages, dry cured bacon ,grilled mushrooms and tomatoes, baked beans and two fried eggs set us up very nicely for the day ahead.
We helped ourselves to cappuccinos from the coffee machine in the corner of the room and whilst reading the morning newspapers ended our meal with freshly baked croissants, toast and marmalade. As with dinner the night before, the breakfast team were well trained and organised taking orders and clearing plates away from tables promptly.
The Facilities:
The Bush has 95 guest rooms, all beautifully furnished ranging from classic through to superior, garden and vintage. Some of the rooms are in the newer wing with the one’s on the ground floor having their own terrace overlooking the secluded garden which must be a lovely place to sit out during warm weather.
Next to the Oak Lounge is a cosy bar which had a fire lit during our winter visit. The bar lounge is perfect for pre-dinner drinks and for enjoying a leisurely after dinner coffee. Drinks, light bites and lunches are served there throughout the day with doors opening out onto the garden terrace in sunny weather. There’s another attractive lounge located between the reception and the restaurant with deep filled sofas and comfortable armchairs in which to relax after a day exploring the Surrey countryside.
Accessed by a short walk through the hotel grounds is a newly refurbished meeting and event space featuring state-of-the-art conference and function facilities which has also become a sought after wedding venue.
There was a function taking place during our stay but as the facilities are self contained with a separate entrance, bar and kitchens, it didn’t impact other guests staying at the hotel.
Out and About:
Farnham
Farnham is one of the oldest towns in England with its history dating back to before Roman times. Many of its Georgian buildings conceal structures of Tudor or even earlier times and it’s a joy to stroll through the town with its mix of independent and high street shops.
Overlooking the town is a 12th century castle perched on a hill. Farnham Castle was built in 1138 by Henry de Blois, grandson of William the Conqueror and was occupied for nearly 900 years, mostly by the powerful Bishops of Winchester.
The impressive motte and shell keep is managed by English Heritage and is free to visit. There’s an interesting exhibition covering the castle’s history located close to the keep entrance and on a clear day far reaching views can be enjoyed from the lookout points. Farnham Castle
The Museum of Farnham is located on West Street and is also free to visit. (Open Wednesday – Saturday). It’s located in a beautiful Georgian town house which has retained many original features and has a delightful walled garden with a summer cafe.
The museum’s galleries cover Farnham’s history from its prehistoric roots to its hop growing boom and Georgian grandeur. There’s also an extensive art and craft collection thanks to the many artists and crafts people who have been drawn to Farnham over the years. Museum of Farnham
Further afield:
Farnham is surrounded by beautiful countryside and the rolling Surrey Hills, making The Bush an ideal base for outdoor activities including walking and cycling. Whilst in the area I also recommend visiting the following two towns.
Guildford
The county town of Surrey is situated just 10 miles from Farnham with park and ride access available from three directions. Start off along the cobbled high street and admire the magnificent Guildhall clock from beneath the Tungate Arch midway up the street.
Continue through the archway to the Great Tower which was built by Normans in the early 12th century on the site of an earlier wooden fortress. Don’t miss the delightful Alice through the looking glass sculpture commemorating Lewis Carroll’s association with the town which is located in the gardens there.
Then head down to the riverside where you’ll find another of these enchanting sculptures. The town has a wide selection of shops and cafes and is a lovely place to spend a few hours.
Godalming
This picturesque small town which lies four miles from Guildford stands on the banks of the River Wey. The high street winds its way gently uphill and is lined with numerous independent shops and cafes, many housed in historic Tudor buildings.
Standing proudly at the top of the street is the Pepper Pot, an unusual structure that has come to symbolise the town.
After wandering around the town, head to the riverside park for a gentle stroll.
Overall:
Our stay at The Bush was an absolute delight and we both fell in love with the hotel as soon as we saw its ivy clad exterior. All the members of staff we came into contact with were very courteous and friendly and nothing seemed too much trouble for them. Our room was of a high standard and well maintained, food top notch and moderately priced. Chatting to other guests in the bar and over breakfast it was evident that everyone thought the same and we all agreed that a short break at The Bush was the perfect way to unwind and relax. It’s the sort of place that feels so cosy that after staying once, you just want to return!
Details: The Bush Hotel, The Borough, Farnham GU9 7NN
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During our stay we were guests of The Bush and as always, all views and opinions are entirely my own.
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