Things To Do
in Esher

Esher is a charming town located in Surrey, England, known for its picturesque surroundings and affluent residential areas. It boasts a rich history and offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions, making it an ideal destination for visitors. The town is close to the lush countryside of Surrey, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and scenic views.

With its well-connected transport links to London, Esher is an excellent base for exploring both urban and rural England.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Esher
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe before visiting the stunning Claremont Landscape Garden, a National Trust property. Enjoy a walk through the beautiful gardens and admire the historical architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to the Esher Town Centre for some shopping at boutique stores and enjoy lunch at a nearby pub. Afterward, visit the nearby Sandown Park Racecourse for some horse racing excitement.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant specializing in British cuisine, then catch a live performance at the nearby Everyman Cinema for a relaxed evening.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Surrey Hills, taking in the stunning views and fresh air. Bring a packed lunch to enjoy amidst nature.

afternoon
:

Visit the local art gallery or cultural center to discover Esher's artistic scene. Afterward, enjoy a coffee break at a cozy café.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with dinner at a gourmet restaurant, followed by a stroll through the town center to enjoy the local nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$4
🍺Pint of Beer$6
🏨Hotel Room (per night)$120
🚍Public Transport Ticket$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings with easy access to outdoor activities.
  • Rich history and cultural attractions.
  • Close proximity to London, making it convenient for day trips.
  • Limited public transportation options within the town.
  • Higher cost of living compared to nearby areas.
  • Fewer nightlife options compared to larger cities.

Places to Visit in Esher

Visit one of these nice places.

Claremont Landscape Garden

A stunning garden with beautifully manicured lawns, picturesque lakes, and historical structures, perfect for landscape photography.

Sandown Park Racecourse

Capture the excitement of horse racing and the vibrant atmosphere of this popular venue.

Esher Common

A scenic area with natural beauty, offering opportunities for capturing wildlife and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Culinary Guide

Food in Esher

Esher offers a delightful culinary scene that combines traditional British fare with international influences, making it a gastronomic paradise for visitors.

Esher Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fish and Chips

A classic British dish consisting of battered and deep-fried fish served with crispy chips, often accompanied by mushy peas.

Must-Try!

Sunday Roast

A traditional meal served on Sundays, featuring roasted meat, potatoes, vegetables, and gravy.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Esher Farmers' Market

Held monthly, this market features local produce, artisanal goods, and street food vendors offering fresh and delicious snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Esher experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 3°C (37°F) in January to 22°C (72°F) in July. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in late autumn and winter. Spring and summer bring pleasant weather, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

British culture values politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is expected in everyday interactions.

Queuing

Standing in line and waiting your turn is a cultural norm, and cutting in line is considered rude.

Respect for Personal Space

Maintaining a respectful distance during conversations is appreciated, as personal space is valued in British culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Esher is generally considered a safe town with low crime rates; however, it's advisable to stay vigilant and take usual safety precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit areas and keep valuables secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 999 or 112.

Tipping in Esher

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% in restaurants and cafes if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and garden visits.

Summer

Warm weather allows for outdoor dining and events, with many festivals taking place in the area.

Autumn

Enjoy beautiful fall foliage and cooler temperatures, perfect for hiking and exploring the countryside.

Winter

Cold temperatures may bring frost and occasional snow, making it a cozy time to enjoy indoor attractions and festive activities.

Nightlife Guide

Esher at Night

Esher boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of pubs, bars, and restaurants offering live music and entertainment. The town center is lively in the evenings, with many establishments serving craft beers, cocktails, and a selection of wines. The Everyman Cinema provides a unique cinema experience, often featuring independent films in a relaxed atmosphere. For those seeking a quieter evening, cozy pubs with a traditional British ambiance are perfect for unwinding.

Hiking in Esher

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

The Surrey Hills AONB

A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering a variety of trails and stunning views of the countryside.

Hurtwood Forest

A beautiful forested area with extensive trails, perfect for hiking, cycling, and enjoying nature.

Airports

How to reach Esher by plane.

London Heathrow Airport

Located approximately 12 miles from Esher, Heathrow is one of the busiest airports in the world, offering international and domestic flights, along with excellent transport links to the town.

Getting Around

Walkability

Esher is relatively walkable, with many amenities located within a short distance of each other. The town center features pedestrian-friendly streets, and local parks are easily accessible for leisurely strolls. However, certain residential areas may require a vehicle for access to more remote attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Esher is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with many parks, schools, and community activities that cater to families with children.

Affluent Residents

The town has a significant population of affluent residents, drawn by its desirable location and quality of life, contributing to a vibrant local economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is highly popular in Esher, with local teams and clubs offering matches and community engagement throughout the year.

Horse Racing

Sandown Park Racecourse hosts various horse racing events, attracting fans and participants from across the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Esher can be moderate, particularly during peak hours due to its proximity to London. The town has good public transportation links, including trains to London Waterloo, making it easy to travel without a car. Local buses also provide connectivity to nearby towns and attractions, but schedules may vary.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Esher.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants in Esher offer vegetarian menus, ensuring that plant-based diners have plenty of choices.

Gluten-Free Options

Many establishments provide gluten-free options, but it's advisable to inform staff of any dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Esher is provided through the National Health Service (NHS), with several local clinics and hospitals available. Visitors can access emergency care at nearby hospitals, and it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies are also available for minor ailments and prescriptions.

Discover United Kingdom

Read more in our United Kingdom 2025 Travel Guide.

United Kingdom Travel Guide