Attractions/Leisure - National Trust/Historic Buildings & Gardens
The National Trust offers visitors to this part of England many opportunities to enjoy the countryside and the houses and gardens to be found within the hills around Leatherhead. Perhaps the most famous location is Box Hill, about 4 miles south of Leatherhead. Leith Hill on the outskirts of Dorking is another area managed by the National Trust, it is the highest point in south east England and offers some amazing panoramic views and walks.
Polesden Lacey, the magnificent Regency villa where King George VI and Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother spent part of their honeymoon in 1923 sits on the outskirts of Leatherhead. The 1,400 acre estate includes two farms, the regency villa, formal grounds plus woodland and Ranmore Common to the south.
Cherkley Court is located on the southern edge of Leatherhead. The house, built in 1870 with formal gardens and unrivalled views over the Mole Valley, was the home for many years of Lord Beaverbrook, newspaper magnate and cabinet minister in Churchill's goverNment during the Second World War.
Also to the south of Leatherhead is Denbies Wine Estate the largest vineyard in England. Situated amongst the lush green hills of the North Downs around 400,000 bottles of fine wine will be produced every year. Here you will not only be able to taste quality English wines but also enjoy a wine tour and 360 degree cinema experience.
Slightly farther afield, but still within easy reach are the National Trust Properties of Claremont Landscape Garden, associated with some of the great names of garden design, and Clandon Park, a grand, early 18th century Palladian mansion set in attractive gardens. RHS Wisley is also within a short journey of Leatherhead and is the perfect place for garden lovers to visit. With over 200 acres of beautiful garden to explore you can take in the glories of the mixed borders and the tranquillity of the Pinetum or make your way to the top of the magnificent Rock Garden.
A great many other houses and open spaces are available to visit from Leatherhead on a day or half-day visit and details are available on local web sites and from The HelpShop.