The Stag on the River, Surrey

Overview

A world away from the hubbub, yet a stone's throw from Guildford and Godalming; the 18th-century Stag on the River provides the perfect pit-stop for weary travellers - it's just off the A3.

Spruced up in contemporary style in Spring 2021, the warm and welcoming interior features open fires, brick and wood floors, striking wallpaper designs, bold colours, interesting artwork and comfortable wall bench seating, along with stools propping up the bar, fresh flowers and armchairs to sink into.

Enjoy views of the River Wey from the pretty riverside terrace - perfect for supping a refreshing libation on a sunny day. New festoon lighting has improved the evening ambience at riverside tables, and there are fabulous wood-framed canopies fully set up for outside dining with heaters and mood lighting.

It enjoys a peaceful riverside spot, so shun the roadside services in favour of coffee or lunch, or stay over in one of the smart, contemporary rooms - it's an ideal base for exploring the North Downs and the Surrey Hills (walking or cycling) or some retail therapy in nearby Godalming or Guildford.

Rooms from

Doubles and twins: £85

Good to know

All major credit cards accepted
Alffresco riverside dining
Private dining (River Room)
Parking available
Dog stay: £15

A touch of culture
There's plenty of country houses to choose from in the area - we recommend majestic Petworth House which houses the National Trust's largest art collection.

Dog-friendly

Selected rooms are dog-friendly and your pooch will be well looked after as a dog bed, blanket, food and water bowls, treats and poop bags will be in the room on arrival.

Outdoor adventures
The stunning Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, are just on the doorstep here - not to be missed for avid walkers.

Rooms

Rooms above the original 18th-century pub feature ancient beams and wall timbers - the perfect choice for those seeking some period character and charm.

Named after local villages, all were fully refurbished in 2021 and are tastefully kitted out in a contemporary style with bight colours and rich fabrics, smartly dressed Hypnos beds, jugs of fresh flowers, modern furnishings, Smart TVs, Birchall teas and Nespresso coffee machines. On arrival, you'll find a complimentary bottle of local Tilford Brewery beer awating you in your room, as well as bathrobes, luxury ESPA toiletries and spacious walk-in showers in the fresh tiled bathrooms.

You are welcome to bring your canine friend as selected rooms are dog-friendly, with dog bed, blanket, food and water bowls, treats and poop bags supplied during your stay.

During the week a Continental breakfast is served, at weekends, relax with the papers over a full English breakfast.

Restaurant & bar

Seasonal menus and the daily chalkboard specials champion locally sourced ingredients with hearty pub classics joined by more adventurous modern dishes.

All meat is sourced locally from Surrey Farms, and fresh salads, herbs and vegetables are delivered daily from Secretts Farm in nearby Milford. The excellent drinks menu features interesting beers, spirits and coffee from local producers - Hogs Back ales, Silent Pool gin (Albury), Mozzo Coffee (Southampton), and Albury Vineyard.

Kick-off with a sharing board, before tucking into a local classic such as Hampshire chalk stream trout with beetroot and tarragon salsa. Leave room for Meadow Cottage Farm ice creams or a plate of Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire cheeses. For lunch, try the delicious fish finger sandwich with tartare sauce and Kingfisher Farm watercress, and best enjoyed with some fat chips.

Things to do

Fans of horse racing should visit the famous Goodwood race-course, built around a stunning a natural amphitheatre. Deemed one of the most beautiful racecourses in the world, for one week each summer it becomes 'Glorious Goodwood' - a real highlight of the British flat racing calendar. Close by is Goodwood Country Park, also the site of the 'Festival of Speed' and 'Revival' festivals - showcasing a range of the world's most historic and modern cars.

The Stag on the River is close to some of West Sussex's cultural highlights, including the stunning Petworth House and Park. This National Trust property is a must for history buffs and art lovers alike, showcasing an impressive art collection of major works by Van Dyck, Turner, Reynolds and Gainsborough.

Those searching for the quintessential English village can spend an afternoon in charming Petworth. One of the real jewels of the South Downs, it's the perfect spot to relax in a traditional pub or have a potter in its boutique shops and cafes.