A historic Surrey country pub, celebrated for its outstanding seasonal cuisine and boutique accommodation, has been officially recognised as one of the finest in the nation. The Merry Harriers, a 16th-century village inn nestled in the picturesque Surrey Hills, has been listed among The Good Food Guide's 100 best pubs of 2025. Offering a perfect blend of rustic charm and gourmet delights, this idyllic retreat is remarkably accessible, situated just 30 minutes from central London.
A Culinary Destination in the Countryside
Stepping inside The Merry Harriers on a blustery winter day, visitors are immediately embraced by a cosy ambiance, complete with a roaring fire in the bar area. The dining experience is intimate, with candlelit snug rooms featuring homely furnishings that create the feeling of eating in a friend's front room.
The menu is a testament to hearty, seasonal cooking using local produce. A recent visit highlighted starters like a sensational chicken liver parfait paired with plum ketchup. For main courses, the pub's elevated take on classic bangers and mash impressed, as did a perfectly cooked venison fillet served with neeps, buttered kale, and fine beans.
No meal would be complete without dessert, and the Jamaican ginger sticky toffee pudding, dripping with whisky toffee sauce, proved to be an irresistible and richly warming choice. The culinary journey continues at breakfast, with standout dishes including Jack's chilli scrambled eggs on fresh sourdough, the secret to which the chefs were happily willing to share.
Boutique Stays and Idyllic Surroundings
The Merry Harriers is more than just a pub; it's a destination for a relaxing getaway. It offers three distinct types of accommodation to suit various travellers: traditional inn rooms, separate garden rooms, and charming shepherd huts complete with fire pits.
Rooms are thoughtfully decorated, with welcoming touches like a softly playing radio upon entry to extend the cosy atmosphere from the bar below. Guests can enjoy idyllic views of the surrounding countryside, ensuring a peaceful night's sleep. It's worth noting that the garden rooms and shepherd huts are dog-friendly, though a pet charge applies upon booking.
Despite its serene, rural feel, the area is ripe for exploration. The pub is only a short drive from stunning National Trust sites such as Oakhurst Cottage and Hydon's Ball and Heath. The nearby market town of Godalming, with its 16th and 17th-century buildings, independent coffee shops, and cafes, offers a perfect wet-weather diversion.
The Verdict: A Perfect Country Escape
The combination of award-winning food, characterful accommodation, and a stunning location makes The Merry Harriers a compelling choice for both a special meal and a weekend retreat. Its recognition by The Good Food Guide underscores its status as a premier gastropub.
For those looking to experience this slice of country living, rooms at The Merry Harriers start from £160 per night. It represents an easily accessible escape from the city, proving that one of the UK's best pub experiences is right on London's doorstep.
