Surrey Oaks

The Soaks has done more to support micro-breweries than any other pub in this guide. Two guest beers are available and these are constantly changing. On average a new beer to the pub comes on sale every day. In the summer months golden ales and wheat beers are popular. In winter expect to find porters, stouts and old ales. A mild will always be available in May. A beer festival in a marquee takes place over the August Bank Holiday when the pub is open all day. With real cider, served direct from the cellar, plus a number of bottle conditioned Belgian and Dutch beers always on sale, it is unsurprising that the Surrey Oaks has been voted the East and Mid Surrey Camra Pub of the Year on numerous occasions. The middle non-smoking "Members Bar" has many framed certificates on the wall to give testament to this, along with a number of animal paintings. The building itself dates in part from the 16 ^th century, but only became a pub in 1850 having previously been a wheelwright’s cottage. Internally there are a number of distinct drinking areas. To the left is the Georgian restaurant and bar which is all nonsmoking. To the right of the serving area is a low-beamed flagstone bar which has a large inglenook fireplace complete with wood burning stove, and low beams covered in pumpclips. Fresh flowers are used to decorate the bar area and dried hops can be found throughout the pub. Finally there is a separate pool room. Homemade food is also a feature and a number of daily specials are always available – particularly recommended are the chef’s pies. No food is sold either Sunday or Monday evenings. Outside is a large garden and a children’s play area. Also to be found here is a boule pitch. Locals use this in the summer months with perhaps more enthusiasm than skill! Check out the website for details of forthcoming guest beers. The Camra Surrey Pub of the Year 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008 and Regional Pub of the Year 2006, putting it in the top 16 pubs in the country. East & Mid Surrey and Surrey Pub of the Year again in 2009.

                 
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Last Updated: 27 Aug 2009