Surrey Hills Society discovers Eastern delights on Chairman's Day visit

Members of the Surrey Hills Society heard about sustainable farming, enjoyed a talk and lunch at a historic farmhouse and took a tractor ride as they discovered 'hidden East Surrey' during the annual Chairman's Day event on Wednesday 8 June. Around 40 members of the Society visited several fascinating and historic sites in a tour arranged by Nutfield-based Local Food Britain founder Tracy Carroll.

At Botley Hill Farmhouse, Warlingham, the group learnt about the history of the building and the surrounding Titsey Estate before inspecting the magnificent fireplace bearing 16th century inscriptions thought to be of Turkish origin.

Lunch at the farmhouse was followed by a visit to Priory Farm near Redhill to enjoy a talk from landowner Nic Shinner about the diversification of modern farms, before taking in the hidden parts of the farm on a tractor trailer ride with estate manager Ian Ford. After browsing the delicious goods in award-winning Priory Farm Shop, the visitors were treated to afternoon tea prepared by Rebecca Mackenzie from her retro caravan Vintage Dotty.

The group also visited Shabden Park Farm at Chipstead, where farmer Mark Banham laid on a sheep dog demonstration featuring dogs Tom and Belle. Over tea, Mark and his wife Kirstie explained how they manage the land in a sustainable way to help preserve the natural chalk downlands

"It has been a hugely successful Chairman's Day, and I'm thrilled that our members were able to learn so much about this sometimes forgotten corner of Surrey," said Christine Howard. "The sheep dog trials were one of the highlights for many – just like One Man and His Dog in front of our eyes!"