Botley Hill Farmhouse

Set in an isolated and elevated position (850 feet, 259 metres), this is the highest pub in south-east England. It is on the edge of Titsey Plantation, and on land owned by the Titsey Foundation and has splendid views towards London. This white-rendered building was once a farmhouse dating from 1546. Local landowners, the Greshams, built the Royal Exchange in the City of London in 1571, and a grasshopper, which forms part of their family crest, can be found on the pub signage. It only entered licensed use comparatively recently (1994) having previously been tea-rooms since 1936. The inside is a cosy blend of low ceilings and doorways, real fires, three separate drinking areas and a little nook and cranny are all served by a longitudinal bar running the length of the rear. Three beers on sale are from the Titsey Brewery which is located in farm buildings near the pub with another from Westerham. In the Grasshopper room there is an unusual fireplace with an engraved mantelpiece believed to Turkish in origin. Similar engravings can be found on the flagstones as well. The pub is arguably the closest to the exclusive and "dry" village of Woldingham on the high ridge of the North Downs and the pub is almost on the North Downs Way. Food is served 12-3 Monday, 12-3 and 6-9:30 Wednesday to Friday, 12-4 and 6-9:30 Saturday and 12-6:30 Sunday. The Greenwich Meridian bisects the site. Although the layout of the listed building means that the toilets are accessed using steps the pub has a side entrance with a bell for wheelchairs and the staff will do their best to help. Dogs are welcome in the stone flagged part of the bar to the right as you enter the pub, but not on Sunday. WiFi is available and there are papers at the end of the bar, there is a baby change area in the ladies and outside there is a table with an umbrella for smokers. Note that the pub is closed on Tuesday.

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Last Updated: 14 May 2022