Things To Do
in Esher
Esher is a picturesque Surrey town on the edge of the London commuter belt, famed for its leafy streets and historic gardens. It sits near the River Mole and offers easy access to expansive green spaces like Esher Common and Claremont Landscape Garden. The town is home to the well-known Sandown Park Racecourse and a relaxed village atmosphere with charming pubs and cafes.
With quick rail links to central London and pleasant riverside walking, Esher blends countryside calm with convenient city access.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Esher and begin with a gentle stroll along the High Street, taking in the quaint shopfronts and the sleepy morning light. Pause at a local cafe for a warm drink and a pastry, watching the village awaken around you.
Walk to Claremont Landscape Garden and wander beneath the ancient trees, listening to birdsong carried on a soft breeze. Find a quiet spot by the lakes and reflect on the blend of formal horticulture and natural woodland that surrounds you.
Dine at a family-friendly pub or bistro in Esher and savor seasonal dishes made with local produce. Finish with a stroll along a riverside path or retire to a cosy fireside for a nightcap, letting the day wind down.
Begin with a morning jog along the edge of Esher Common, where heathland scents and birdsong lift the mood. Then head to Painshill Park nearby for a winding stroll through classical shrubbery cascades and a shimmering canal.
Picnic by the lakes and marvel at the decorative ruins and rolling countryside views. Explore the landscape design with a map from the visitor centre and weave through the tranquil hills.
Return to Esher for a restorative dinner at a village pub or modern British restaurant. If the weather allows, enjoy a moonlit stroll along the village lanes and listen to the sounds of night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍕Pizza | $10-16 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $5-8 |
| 🍷Glass of wine at a pub | $7-12 |
| 🚌Public transport ride (one-way) | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to London with easy rail access
- Beautiful green spaces and historic gardens
- Relaxed village atmosphere with pubs and cafés
- Limited nightlife within town center
- Can be expensive in some pubs and eateries
- Limited large-scale shopping within Esher itself
Places to Visit in Esher
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic Surrey townscape with timber-framed pubs, hedges, and village charm.
Historic formal garden with temples, lakes, and mature trees—great for landscape photography.
Spectacular architecture and wide views of the track, especially at dawn or dusk.
Open green space along river paths with wildlife and reflective water scenes.
Food in Esher
Esher Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Surrey treat: scones with clotted cream and jam, best enjoyed at a country cafe or hotel.
Must-Try!
A classic fry-up featuring eggs, bacon, sausages, beans, and toast, commonly available at pubs and cafés.
Hearty pub dish with tender beef stewed in ale, typically served with mash or chips.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A nearby weekly market offering local produce, cheeses, breads, and street bites.
Historic market in Kingston with stalls for fresh produce, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals; a short journey from Esher.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British etiquette values patient queuing and politeness; join the end of lines and wait your turn.
Wait to be seated in pubs unless it’s a casual counter-service spot; keep noise moderate in residential areas.
Drive on the left; small courtesy gestures towards pedestrians and cyclists are appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Esher
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is discretionary; rounding up or leaving 10-15% in restaurants or pubs is common if service is good. Cash or card are widely accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Blooming gardens and longer days; great for walks and outdoor cafes.
Warm weather, outdoor dining, and frequent events; plan for occasional showers.
Golden leaves and harvest markets; ideal for cozy pubs and scenic walks.
Brisk days, candlelit pubs, and possibilities of light snow; dress in layers.
Esher at Night
Hiking in Esher
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Woodland and lakes trails within a short drive offering scenic viewpoints.
Gentle loops through heathland and forest with wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Esher by plane.
Major international hub about 15-25 miles from Esher; reachable by car or rail via London.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in and around Esher, attracted by schools and green spaces.
Residents who commute into London or Kingston for work.
A stable population enjoying the countryside and slower pace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Sandown Park hosts flat racing events and is a major local attraction.
Local clubs and parks host informal cricket matches in summer.
Local teams play in nearby leisure centers and parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Esher.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafes in Esher offer vegetarian options; ask for veggie mains, and opt for dishes featuring seasonal vegetables, legumes, and cheeses.