The Mill at Elstead

After a drizzly start to the morning the sun broke through the clouds as we turned off the main road in Elstead, Surrey. The skies cleared as we drove slowly across the stone bridge down the cobbled drive towards The Mill. This 4 storey, 18th century, converted watermill with the river running right underneath is set in large grounds with tall trees and a picturesque meadow. It would be heaven in summer with many picnic tables set around for eating al fresco next to the river. Today it was running fast with the amount of rain we've had in the last couple of days and the ducks on the millpond had their work cut out! Inside the main door was the waterwheel - James is always fascinated - but this one wasn't going. The pub has a great atmosphere and is quite a rabbit-warren but we finally settled on a conner table in a room with an open fire. Lunch was fine but not exceptional which is a pity in this amazing setting.

Afterwards we wandered east through Thursley, Witley, Cranleigh and Forest Green then turned west and headed into the sunset. It was a fine afternoon and such a lovely part of England here in Surrey.

[Martin: Although Merrilyn and James fell asleep on the journey home we did meander around some lovely small villages and surrounding woods. Most leaves have fallen now making the fields dotted with spindly oaks and the narrow roads lined with naked hedges.]

Photos are here. Our pub odyssey continues...