The urban guide to the countryside -

Well, hello!

I'm Amber, editor of Muddy Surrey, here to bring you the quirky, cool and downright unmissable in the area.

Gotta Have It

Well, who could have predicted this as the must-have summer 2020 accessory? If you've gotta wear one, it may as well look chic, right?

Our curated A-Z of the grooviest local businesses

Summer holidays: 28 things to do with kidsIt's been four long months with the kids at home - and now the summer holidays are here. Step away from the gin and read on for 28 great ideas on things to do with kids and teens.
20 pubs with gorgeous gardens in SurreyPraise be, the pubs are opening – and just in time for summer weather! Here are 20 of the best pub gardens to enjoy a socially-distanced sip in across Surrey. Cheers!
Surrey's secret lavender fieldWho needs Provence, when we've got acres of lavender fields growing right here in Surrey? And from this weekend, the fragrant fields at Oak Tree Farm in Banstead are open to the public.
Culture vulture: your July hitlistMissing the theatre and live venues? Until normal service resumes for the arts world, here's some inspiration for for July - podcasts, books, music and theatre.
Drive-in and open air cinemas in SurreyWith social distancing de rigueur the summer, the local arts industry has had to find new ways to keep cinema alive. Cue the drive-in cinema - we've found the best in Surrey and further afield.

The latest handpicked businesses we think you’ll love

Eat View more
In the pink: the rosé revolution

Once dismissed as “lady petrol” rosé wine is now officially the drink of the summer. Read on for tips on the best to buy, and that all important question – does it give you a hangover?
- Recipes, courtesy of Giffords Circus
  
  Roll up, roll up! ... Put some razzle-dazzle back into mealtime monotony with a double whammy of scrumptious, summery dishes from Giffords Circus' new cookbook.
- Glug! Surrey’s best local vineyards
  
  English wine is officially having a moment - and what better time to try it than in English Wine Week? Top up your glass with a drop from one of these local Surrey vineyards.
- Recipe: Fresh pasta with asparagus and wild garlic
  
  Want a quick and easy midweek meal? Try this 20 minute, delectable and light supper direct from our favourite chefs at Daylesford Cookery School.
- Speedy supper: Beef and basil bites
  
  A recipe that's perfect as a party snack for those socially distanced back garden get-togethers or serve it up to the family for lunch or a light dinner.

Arts & Culture View more
Staying in: things to do

Your weekly boredom buster is here with all the best and brand spanking new TV, film, music and theatre to keep you entertained from the sofa.
- 10 best books for tweens
  
  Are your kids are too old for picture books, but not quite into the teenager genre yet? Here are 10 great books for children aged between 8 and 12, as suggested by The Cobham Bookshop.
- We’re all going on a big-screen holiday
  
  Choose your destination, fasten your seats and get ready for take off. Here are 30 films, set in exotic locations that are almost as good as a holiday.

Home View more
- Property flirt: Gorgeous Godstone gaff
  
  Fancy a peep through the keyhole? This 6-bed Grade II-listed home hidden away in large secluded grounds in Godstone is a slice of country heaven – but can you guess the price?
Wellbeing
- 10 tips to a happier life
  
  Time to focus on yourself? Health and Life Coach – Simone Gilbert shares her advice on how to take control of your health and happiness.
- Aaargh, I can’t stop eating
  
  None of my summer shorts fit and I still can't stop stuffing my face. Thankfully Muddy Norfolk editor Helen consulted the experts for these three easy emotional eating tips.

Work View more
Working from home

Working from home? Think it will be freedom from interruptions, unlimited pyjama time and easy access to biscuits? Plying your trade from your des-res can be hard work. Here are our top tips.
Kids
- Get the most out of reading with your child
  
  Reading with your child is one of the most important things you can do for their education. Here's how to get the most of out of it, thanks to the experts at Banstead Prep.
- Is it time to try an online school?
  
  With many children struggling to study at home and doubts over September start dates, ‘virtual’ schools are gaining traction - but what do they offer that’s different?

Fashion View more
6 pairs of trainers for racking up miles

Whether you’ve rediscovered your love of running, or just wanted an excuse to escape the house (guilty!), it’s essential to have right kit. Try on these for size.
Beauty
- 5 glow-getting tinted moisturisers
  
  Coming out of lockdown with a healthy glow but haven't worn make up on yonks? Ditch the foundation for a lightweight tinted moisturiser. Here's 5 on the Muddy radar.
- Five of the best hair masks

People View more
Muddy meets: Shlomo, beatboxer

He’s worked with Ed Sheeran, Lily Allen, and Rudimental, and now record-breaking beatboxer Shlomo has a new project on his hands – raising money for the NHS. Tell us about it, Shlo!
- Muddy meets David Walliams
  
  The stage version of David Walliam's Billionaire Boy comes to Richmond Theatre this month - we meet the man behind the book.
- Meet the head: ACS International School, Cobham
  
  A new school year and at ACS International School in Cobham there's also a new head of school - meet Mr Barnaby Sandow who returns to the the UK after almost 15 years at an international school in Borneo.

Our honest reviews of the UK’s best schools

Making plans? Find your perfect Pub, Inn, Hotel, Café, Restaurant or Bar across the Muddy counties.

Travel View more
The Muddy insider guide to Norfolk

Summer holidays incoming! Read our brand new and brilliant curated guide to Norfolk, with luxe SPF brand Saltee, and start planning your staycation (PLUS enter our sexy £2,888 summer giveaway!).
- Muddy’s insider guide to Devon
  
  If Devon's on your holiday hit list this year you'll be needing our totally brilliant insider guide to the county. PLUS we have £2,888 of summer goodies up for grabs!
- The Muddy insider guide to The Cotswolds
  
  Prepping for a staycay this summer? Our curated guide to The Cotswolds is packed with our-in-the-know tips and up-to-date openings. Just add sandals and sunshine. PLUS read on for £2,888 of sultry summer goodies to give away).