‘Hidden’ village on edge of M25 with famous woodland cafe | UK | Travel

When you think of Surrey, you might immediately see idyllic hills and popular spots like Shere and Box Hill. However, you don’t need to venture far to discover the county’s hidden gems.

Tucked away in the heart of Surrey is the charming village of Ockham, a treasure trove of attractions that range from a Napoleonic-era semaphore tower and an overlooked mausoleum, to the acclaimed RHS Garden Wisley, a cosy gastropub, and a woodland cafe renowned for its bacon rolls – all conveniently located near the bustling junction of the A3 and M25.

The village is steeped in history, with Lord Byron’s daughter, Ada Lovelace, rumoured to have considered Ockham Park as a potential residence before settling at Horsley Towers.

Other notable landmarks include Ockham Mill and the Chatley Heath Semaphore Tower.

Ockham is blessed with ample outdoor spaces, including the nearby RHS Garden Wisley and Wisley Common. A small footbridge at Elm Lane provides easy access across the A3 to these gardens.

Adjacent to Ockham in Chatley Heath are more stunning landscapes to explore, complete with iconic structures. Among them is a unique semaphore tower, an octagonal brick edifice used during the Napoleonic wars for communication between Portsmouth and London, reports Surrey Live.

Now fully restored, the tower offers overnight accommodation for up to four guests. Decorated with a Regency and naval theme, it provides a truly unique stay.

Tucked away on the heath, a ‘temple of sleep’ mausoleum whispers tales of scandals past. Plagued by grave robbers and abandoned to the elements, it was forgotten until a rediscovery in the 90s.

The final abode of Sir Bernhard, Caroline (his wife), and Florence Samuelson (his daughter), it is now lovingly maintained by Surrey County Council, making for an intriguing detour amidst the commons’ tranquility.

Ockham and its common are poised for a revival with planned heathland restoration that National Highways asserts has the backing of Surrey Wildlife Trust, Natural England, RSPB, and Forestry England.

Regulars to the commons will be familiar with Ockham Bites, a hidden woodland gem famed for its hearty bacon baps, sweet treats, and aromatic coffees. Lauded for its genial service and splendid fare, patrons hold this nook in high regard.

A Google review praises the cafe: “Fantastic place for bike/car meets – lovely staff at the cafe and bacon rolls that are truly a cut above the rest. Highly recommended for anyone planning a meet here, or simply looking for a good breakfast. Brand new benches have now been installed so it’s all very convenient.”

Nestled just east of Ockham lies Martyr’s Green, a quaint hamlet boasting The Black Swan pub. As Ockham’s local haunt, this charming public house radiates traditional allure with its inviting roadside presence.

Inside, the gastropub offers a blend of traditional and modern dishes. Patrons can enjoy a variety of meals such as the pie of the day, prawn and monkfish Malabar curry or a roasted squash and chickpea salad with charred onions, superstraccia and puy lentil dressing.

The closest schools to Ockham include Ripley Court School, a private co-educational institution for children aged three to 11, and Pyrford Primary School, which has approximately 450 students.

Rightmove reveals that over the past year, properties in Ockham have had an average price of £870,000. Many homes in Ockham are typical detached Surrey houses boasting expansive gardens.