10 Reasons To Love... Cobham

It’s known for its famous residents and posh pads but there’s much more to this charming Surrey village on the banks of the River Mole than pure glitz and glam

- Emily Westwell

1 PAINSHILL PARK

Portsmouth Road, Cobham. KT11

1JE. Tel: [phone]. Web: painshill.co.uk An absolute ‘must’ on your list of things to do in Cobham is this incredible 18th century landscape garden, created by the Hon. Charles Hamilton. Restored in 1981 and granted Grade I listing as well as the rare Europa Nostra Medal for restoration, this garden of moods is described as a living work of art with changing romantic landscapes. You will need several hours to do this garden justice, but with a café and restaurant and a well-stocked shop you should have a grand day out. Next month (September 9) there is free entry to the garden on a Heritage Open Day.

2 CHATLEY HEATH SEMAPHORE TOWER

Old Lane, Ockham Common, Cobham. KT11 1ND. Tel: [phone]. Web: visitsurrey.com/things-to-do/chatleyheath-semaphore-tower-p61933 First of our little hidden secrets is this splendid tower, built in 1822 as part of a chain used to pass messages between the Admiralty in London and the naval dockyard in Portsmouth. Another one for the free Heritage Open Day visit – this time on September 10 between 10am and 3pm. Parking is a 15-minute stroll away, across the common at Boldemere off Old Lane, but the views from the roof of the tower are worth the effort. There are a couple of telescopes at the top, so if it’s a clear day you can see the London Eye in all its glory.

3 COBHAM MILL