Nestled between Bookham and Leatherhead is the village of Fetcham. It sits on the lower slopes of the North Downs and benefits from Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Despite its rural nature, Fetcham has ample local amenities and good transport links both into London and the surrounding Surrey towns and villages.
The History of Fetcham
Fetcham’s history dates back to the Anglo-Saxon period. Fetcham is actually derived from the Anglo-Saxon phrase ‘Feccas Ham’ which means Feccas settlement. However, there is evidence that Fetcham may be older than anticipated as Stone Age, Bronze Age and roman artefacts have been fond alongside three burial grounds.
Fetcham first appeared on paper in the Domesday Book of 1086, but spelt Feceham. It was shared between William the Conqueror, the Bishop of Bayeux and Oswald the Thegn.
The oldest building in Fetcham is St Mary’s Church, which has been a place for Christian worship for over 1000 years.
Things to do In Fetcham
The Fetcham Conservation Area is home to some incredible architecture. The impressive 18th century mansion of Fetcham Park House, The Well House, The Dower House and Ballands Hall. There are other magnificent properties strewn throughout Fetcham, including the Grade II listed Le Pelerine and Thorncroft Manor.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, as visit to Mill Pond Springs and the associated nature reserve could make a great day out. Stroll around the land and feast your eyes upon a multitude of wildfowl, including a magnificent family of swans.
Within easy walking distance (20 minutes) of Fetcham is the family owned Bocketts Farm Park. Children can get hands on with the farm’s residents, including goats, sheep, llamas and cows. Don’t forget to have a bite to eat in the café and place your bets for the famous pig race!
Transport Links Fetcham
Fetcham may be a quaint Surrey village but with junction 9 of the M25 just a short drive away it is extremely well connected by road. To the east is the A24 which snakes down through Dorking and Horsham, all the way down to the coast at Worthing. Northbound, the road travels into South London. Alternatively, the A3 can be a valuable route in the west.
Both Leatherhead and Bookham stations can be accessed from Fetcham by bus or car. The stations are both situated on the Guildford to London Waterloo line. Links into London will be quicker from Leatherhead, whilst services to Guildford from Bookham take just 21 minutes.