The Bush Hotel in Farnham feels like a secret that those of us who know about it don’t really want to share with the rest of the world. And even if you are local and drive through Farnham regularly you would be forgiven for not knowing this little peaceful haven was there despite the fact it has been welcoming guests since 1618.
Step off the pavement in onto it’s cobbled courtyard and you can feel yourself visibly relaxing immediately. Despite being on the town’s busy one way system there is an instant calm and stillness, and a feeling that the relaxation has already begun.
Independent and family owned you will be greeted like an old friend and welcomed like you have stayed in one of the 94 bedrooms numerous times before, even if you have just popped in for something to eat. We were recently invited to try out their dinner menu in the historic Garden Restaurant which, along with the Oak Lounge, is open for all day dining and prides itself on offering a seasonal menu for lunches, afternoon tea and dinner.
The menu isn’t extensive but then it doesnt need to be when the food is excellent quality and reasonably priced. There were half a dozen starters, or small plates, to choose from with the most expensive being just £8. Followed by a choice of salads or classics such as the Bush Burger ( crisp lettuce, sliced tomato, red onion, gherkin, burger relish, coleslaw & skin on fries for £16.50) or the 8oz sirloin with a garlic roasted flat mushroom and thick cut chips for £25. Or how about a beautifully poached salmon fillet or beetroot and brie tart? As I said, the menu was not huge but everything on it sounded delicious and we couldn’t fault our burger or steak.
We also couldn’t resist the dessert menu either, with Bruce sticking to type and going for the cheese and me having the cinnamon apple and almond tart with ice cream (which at just £7.50 each are somewhat of a bargain).
The service was also superb. Attentive without being overbearing.
If you are looking for somewhere that gets it all right: ambience, hospitality and fabulous food in a beautifully peaceful location then this is most definitely it.
We can’t wait to return and despite it only being a few miles away are planning on the next visit being for a while longer.
For their website and to check out room prices and events please click here