Skimmington Castle, Reigate Heath

The Skimmington Castle started life as a farm 400 years ago. It became a pub in 1825 but in recent years has been more akin to a restaurant than pub, especially at weekends, meaning that drinkers may find all the tables taken by diners. The pub has a great location though, and on a sunny day, the beer garden is a wonderful place to enjoy a few pints, with or without a meal. Three beers are usually available, with the Pilgrim beer sometimes changing to Progress. Inside there are a number of rooms, including one down a few steep steps (where families are permitted), all served by the one bar. This is very much a cosy pub with lots of atmosphere. Low ceilings and a real fire only help to enhance this. Reigate Heath is a popular spot for walkers and the Skim is a favourite stopping off place for them. Note that Bonny's Road is a small turning off Flanchford Road, and cuts across the golf course. Speed humps mean you must go slowly. The pub is very dog friendly.