Premier Inn Farnham

Absolutely, Farnham is well worth a visit. This historic market town in Surrey has a unique mix of countryside beauty and cultural heritage. It’s home to Farnham Castle, one of the few remaining motte-and-bailey castles in the country and has a thriving arts scene thanks to places like Farnham Maltings. The town centre is full of independent shops, cafes and restaurants, and there are beautiful walks nearby, particularly in the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 

Farnham is famous for its rich history, Georgian architecture and connection with the arts and crafts movement. It’s home to the historic Farnham Castle, which dates back to the 12th century and was once the residence of the Bishops of Winchester. The town is also recognised internationally as England’s first World Craft Town, reflecting its long-standing links to pottery, textiles and other crafts. The nearby University for the Creative Arts also contributes to Farnham’s reputation as a hub for creativity and design. The beautiful surrounding countryside, including Waverley Abbey ruins and the North Downs adds to Farnham’s appeal.

The River Wey runs through Farnham, flowing gently through the town and nearby countryside. It’s part of the larger Wey and Arun Canal network and adds to the town’s tranquil setting. There are plenty of walking routes along the riverbanks where you can spot wildlife or just enjoy a peaceful afternoon by the water. The river has historically played an important role in Farnham’s development, especially during the wool trade and hop-growing eras.

Farnham has been settled since Roman times and was mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, so it’s over 1,000 years old. The town grew around Farnham Castle, which was built shortly after the Norman Conquest and played a significant role throughout medieval and Tudor history. It was an important stop on the route between London and Winchester, which helped it grow into the market town we see today. Many of the buildings in the town centre still reflect its Georgian and earlier origins.