Things To Do
in Reigate
Reigate is a historic market town perched on the North Downs in Surrey, just a short rail ride from central London. It blends centuries of heritage with modern cafes, independent shops, and leafy streets that feel village-like yet connected to the city. The town sits amid rolling countryside, with easy access to scenic viewpoints, caves, and nature trails.
With convenient rail links, charming pubs, and a compact town center, Reigate makes for a relaxing yet engaging UK country-town experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional English fare. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming streets of Reigate, admiring the historic architecture and quaint shops. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Reigate Castle, where you can explore the grounds and learn about its storied past.
Head to the Reigate Priory Park for a picnic lunch, soaking up the lush greenery and beautiful gardens. After lunch, explore the Priory itself, which offers insights into the area's history and features picturesque walking paths. If time permits, stop by the local art gallery to appreciate regional artwork and exhibitions.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a cozy pub, savoring classic British dishes and perhaps a local ale. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the town center, where you can enjoy the ambiance and perhaps catch some live music at a nearby venue. Conclude your day with a nightcap at one of the town’s inviting bars, reflecting on your discoveries.
After a hearty breakfast, prepare for a day of hiking by packing a picnic and heading to the Surrey Hills. The morning is ideal for exploring the scenic trails, with stunning views over the rolling countryside. Take your time to enjoy the fresh air and perhaps spot some local wildlife along the way.
Pause for a well-deserved picnic lunch in one of the many scenic spots, surrounded by nature’s beauty. After refueling, continue your hike to enjoy more of the breathtaking landscapes and unique geological formations in the area. Make sure to take plenty of photos, as the views will be unforgettable.
Return to Reigate in the evening, where you can unwind at a local restaurant, enjoying a delicious meal to replenish your energy. After dinner, stroll through the town, appreciating the calming atmosphere as the day winds down. Consider stopping for dessert at a charming café to sweeten your memorable day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🥗Lunch at casual cafe | $8-12 |
| 🥤Bottle of water or soft drink | $1-3 |
| 🚆One-way local transport | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact town with easy access to countryside and London
- Strong selection of pubs, cafes and independent shops
- Pleasant parks and scenic viewpoints nearby
- Good rail links for day trips and excursions
- Limited large-scale nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Can feel quiet on weekday evenings outside peak season
- Some attractions may require short drives to reach
- Weather can be changeable in the shoulder seasons
Places to Visit in Reigate
Visit one of these nice places.
Lush parkland with mature trees, a tranquil lake, and seasonal color ideal for landscapes and portrait photography.
Elevated vantage points with sweeping views over the Weald and North Downs—great for sunset shots.
A historic church tower that makes for striking architectural photography and cityscapes from surrounding streets.
Indoor chalk cave formations offering unique lighting and texture for interesting photos (availability varies).
Food in Reigate
Reigate Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Scones with clotted cream and jam, served with tea in a café or tearoom—an iconic English treat.
Must-Try!
A hearty plate with eggs, bacon, sausage, beans, tomatoes and toast, commonly found at local cafés and pubs.
Golden battered fish with thick-cut fries, a staple pub meal that pairs well with locally brewed ale.
Roast meat with potatoes, vegetables and gravy—a weekly favorite at many pubs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Occasional markets in the town center offering fresh produce, bread, pastries and prepared foods.
Seasonal street food stalls and pop-ups that appear in Market Place and at community events.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British etiquette emphasizes orderly queuing and polite conversation. Say please and thank you, and avoid talking loudly in public spaces.
Be mindful of public seating norms and wait to be seated when required; tipping is appreciated but not obligatory.
When visiting churches or museums, dress modestly and follow posted guidelines.
Safety
Tipping in Reigate
Ensure a smooth experience
In the UK, tipping is customary but not mandatory. If service is not included, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common in restaurants; pubs typically don’t include a service charge, but you can tip if you’re happy with service.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, warm days, and outdoor dining scenes. Pack sun protection and a light jacket for cooler evenings; occasional showers can occur.
Golden foliage and comfortable walking weather. Perfect for countryside hikes and photography in natural light, with cooler mornings.
Cool, damp weather with shorter days. Cozy pubs and cafés become cultural hubs; layer up for outdoor explorations.
Blooming gardens and milder temperatures. Great time for parks, walking trails and town-center strolls.
Reigate at Night
Hiking in Reigate
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Majestic viewpoints and various looping trails through chalk hills and heath, ideal for longer hikes and photography.
High points with expansive views across the Surrey Hills; challenging but rewarding hikes.
Popular circular walk with historic Gibbet Hill and panoramic countryside scenery.
Airports
How to reach Reigate by plane.
Approximately 20-30 miles from Reigate; easily reachable by road or train via Redhill and connecting lines for international flights.
About 40-45 miles away; well-connected by rail and road for international travel, with options to drive or take a coach/taxi.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, professionals and retirees who value a quiet, historic town with easy access to countryside.
Many residents travel to London or nearby towns for work, drawn by reliable rail links and the town’s convenience.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local pastime with community clubs and matches in nearby grounds.
Seasonal matches and club activities common in parks and grounds during warmer months.
Public and club courts available for recreational play and coaching.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Reigate.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafes in Reigate offer vegetarian mains and sides. Look for clearly labeled veggie dishes or ask the kitchen to adapt. Vegan options are increasingly available at many venues; you can ask for dairy-free substitutes when needed.