‘Tis the season to start scoping out idyllic spots for your upcoming festive rom-com reenactments. And if you’re in need of some inspiration, we think we’ve found a pretty darn gorgeous one for you. Just an hour outside of London, nestled amongst the rolling Surrey Hills, is a teeny-tiny village that looks fit for the pages of a fairytale. So, wrap up warm, folks. Because we’re heading on a daytrip.
Brockham Village
The picturesque village in question is Brockham; a quaint-and-quintessential chocolate box spot that’s perched in the Mole Valley district of Surrey. The village sits against the rather jaw-dropping backdrop of the North Downs. And whist it’s only home to just over 2,000 residents; this vibrant village truly defines the meaning of ‘small but mighty’.
The village of Brockham was first recorded in 1241, so it’s certainly got some tales to tell. Home to a church, a school, two pubs, a village hall, a handful of shops and eateries, and the River Mole; the list of things to do in Brockham isn’t particularly extensive. But that really is just part of the charm. The main focal point of Brockham is its village green, which plays host to a Victorian Market every summer. The village green is also where the largest event in Brockham’s calendar takes place: the Brockham Bonfire.
Brockham Bonfire
Held every year on the Saturday that falls closest to November 5, the Brockham Bonfire has been attracting visitors from far and wide since it first took place in 1886. The annual celebration is said to be one of the largest of its kind in the UK, and around 20,000 people supposedly flock to Brockham’s village green for the occasion. The event is organised by local volunteers and features a torchlight procession, the lighting of the bonfire, and a huge firework display that sees around four tonnes of fireworks light up the sky.
Scenically situated between Reigate and Dorking; Brockham was recently named one of the best places to live in the country by leading lifestyle publication, Muddy Stilettos. Alongside what’s on offer inside the villages parameters; Brockham was also praised for its proximity to the likes of Betchworth Castle (which is well worth a visit for culture-vultures) and Box Hill (a spot that offers some sensational walking routes).
Getting to Brockham from London
The drive from London to Brockham takes just under an hour, and there is plenty of pay-and-display parking available once you get there. Non-drivers can hop on a speedy train service from London Waterloo to Dorking, which is then a short bus-ride of 40 minute walk to Brockham.