Sustonica, the first global sustainability standard for holiday lets.
Our aim is to create lasting holiday memories and we intend to do so both responsibly and sustainably.
To deliver on this we've set out a number of environmental and social pledges which help to focus our efforts;
you can read more about them in our Impact Report.
This is why we've partnered with Sustonica, the first global certification for holiday lets,
to support our owners to be more sustainable.
The Sustonica certification focuses on four key areas: energy conservation, water conservation,
waste reduction and promoting inclusiveness. They are on a mission to become the most widely
recognised sustainability standard for holiday rentals and a catalyst to reduce emissions of holiday
lets and influence guests to reduce their own household consumption too.
Properties that display the Sustonica badge have successfully passed the criteria,
which align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council standards,
and their owner has made a commitment to look after our planet as well as you.
"No need to say that it is a fantastic location in the middle of a park, with a direct access to walks."
The cottage itself is extremly comfortable and cosy. Nice and helpful owners welcome you warmly.
Highly recommended.
Reviewed by Denis5.0★Mar 2025
"It was absolutely beautiful and so comfortable."
Loved the view and grounds. Spotlessly clean. Beautifully furnished. Great welcome gift thank you very much appreciated. Very informative information pack. Great having a smart tv. Very well equipped kitchen. Best shower we have ever used. Very good for people with limited mobility. You were both so kind and helpful. We will be back thank you xx
Reviewed by Grace5.0★Dec 2024
"This was our second visit to the Observatory and we were not disappointed."
This time we used taxis to and from the station and visited London twice and Brighton. The accommodation is great and suited us very well. A walk through the woods to Dorking, followed by a great lunch at the Queens Head was a super start. The vineyard is certainly worth a visit and the frequent trains puts London and the South coast within reach.
Reviewed by Jill3.8★Nov 2024
"A wonderful space to feel like you’re retreating from the world, whilst still being close to shops and things to do."
The Annex is well laid out and has all the things to make a short stay comfortable. There are lots of lovely touches. The gardens and land is fabulous - saw foxes and heard deer but didn’t quite get to see them.
Just a few things would have made the stay perfect - improved WiFi (it’s very slow), milk and tea bags would have been nice and a non-stick frying pan would have been helpful.
Apart from those, it’s a great place to stay and I’d love to come back.
Reviewed by Natalie4.7★Oct 2024
"A fabulous property and an even better location."
Rural property with private walks on doorstep and longer walks so near by. Ideal for dog walkers or walkers/ramblers alike. One point of note, follow the owners directions and not your sat nav! Apart from that this is an ideal location to relax and leave all the day to day stress away. Hosts are friendly and keep their distance and privacy but you know they are there if need be.
Reviewed by Andy5.0★Sep 2024
"Excellent place to stay couldn't fault it Excellent facilities lovely gardens and walks outside for the dog and if you want some peace and quiet this is definitely the place to stay to recharge would definitely revisit again one of the best places I've stayed in."
Reviewed by Dave5.0★Sep 2024
"A wonderful property - calm and very relaxing."
Excellent hosts - super friendly and helpful
Just the stay we needed and we will be returning
Reviewed by Alison5.0★Jul 2024
"Such a wonderful place to stay in, thank you so much to Debbie and Ian we couldn’t have been made to feel more welcome."
The Observatory annex is beautiful with everything we could have wished for, including amazing views, and walks on our doorstep. It has been a delight to enjoy this idyllic location, such a lovely place to relax and unwind - just what we needed. We especially loved all the little touches such as the local vineyard wine, and dog treats for Talia. As if all of this wasn’t enough we have also been blessed with really good weather during our stay in this enchanting oasis of tranquility in Surrey.
Many thanks to Debbie and Ian for such an enjoyable week
Reviewed by Martin5.0★Jul 2024
"Lovely setting for the beautiful spotless appartment."
Impressive information brochure supplied by friendly helpful hosts. Really enjoyed walk in beautiful woods where you can spot wildlife.
Reviewed by Angela5.0★Jul 2024
"What a lovely spot, what a lovely cottage!"
Friendly owners, great surroudings ans just the place for all your visits in Surrey.
One tiny thing only: the chairs and stool outside are somewhat less comfortable after a while.
Reviewed by Kees4.7★Jun 2024
"Looking for a convenient location to base ourselves whilst doing the rounds of visiting friends and family around Kent, Surrey and Sussex, we came across The Observevatory Annexe near Dorking."
The accommodation was perfrect for us, modern and well presented and the secluded location in the midst of the Surrey was great for walking with Maja, our Bernese Mountain Dog. Ian & Debbie were the prefect hosts and we really enjoyed our stay. We hope to be back again in the not too distant future.
Reviewed by Gerry5.0★Jun 2024
"Idyllic, attention to detail and accomodation was outstanding comfortable with every need catered for ."
We loved finding out how the restoration work on this beautiful place was going . The woods and wildlife were spectacular and hosts brilliant .
Reviewed by Paul5.0★Jun 2024
"We very much enjoyed the lovely peaceful setting."
Our hosts were great and we had the chance to meet both Ian and Debbie. The Annexe is provided with everything needed for a weeks stay and there are plenty of places to eat in the area.
Reviewed by David5.0★May 2024
"Really enjoyed our stay here, so peaceful."
Very handy to Dorking which is a nice town and so many things to see and do without driving long distances.
Reviewed by Jacqueline4.7★Apr 2024
"Would give more than 5 stars if possible, Lovely annexe and grounds, fantastic owners, beautiful clean Surrey countryside and towns , plenty of great places to visit, we hope to return at some point in the future."
Reviewed by Steven5.0★Apr 2024
"We had a lovely weekend in a beautiful property with outstanding views."
Thank you for welcoming us in to your home.
Reviewed by Stephen5.0★Mar 2024
"Really enjoyed our stay, was very comfortable, lovely shower, all kitchen equipment was excellent ."
Beautiful view while relaxing on the sofa. Enjoyed our walks with our dog on the property’s grounds and through the gate to enjoy the Nower nature reserve. The property owners were very friendly and helpful.
Reviewed by Christine5.0★Nov 2023
"The cottage was exactly what we look for in a break away - dog friendly, beautiful views from the sofa, our own easily accessible parking space, well equipped inside."
Bonuses of staying at the Observatory Annexe, good dog walking in the property grounds and beyond. The owners were very friendly and helpful but not intrusive. Worth noting, and not in the owners' control, the speed bumps approaching the property are a bit vicious so worth driving very slowly from the main road down to the property. Please don't let this one comment deter you, its a beautiful cottage and exactly what we look for in a break. We'll return in spring/early summer to enjoy the rhododendrons in the gardens.
Reviewed by Susan5.0★Oct 2023
"We were very relieved that the annexe was close to the house."
We are not young and it was reassuring to be closer to the observatory than we thought it was going to be. We enjoyed "our" woods. The area round the annexe is wonderful, lots to do and see. Sadly we couldn't do it justice as we were not on top form. We had intended using the frequent trains from Dorking to London Waterloo. Dorking is an amazing little town which we hope to explore better if (hopefully when) we return.
The cottage was perfect and the WI FI good. Bed and settee were comfortable, shower good. To make better use of the 5 burner hob, an extra pan or two would be useful.
Reviewed by Jill4.7★Sep 2023
"This is a lovely cottage in an amazing setting."
It is very comfortable with everything you need, surrounded by private woodland. Beautiful walks from the front door and easy access to Box Hill and the surrounding Surrey Hills. The owners were very friendly, as were their dogs!
Reviewed by Maartje5.0★Sep 2023
"Beautiful furnished cottage in beautiful countryside to spend relaxing days."
Very friendly hosts!
Reviewed by Rolf4.7★Aug 2023
"We had a wonderful stay at the Observatory Annexe."
Thank you to Ian and Debbie for providing such a beautiful place to stay. The annexe has everything you need and us really nicely presented/decorated. Little things like having shampoo, conditioner, dishwasher tablets, hairdryer provided were lovely little touches, alongside a complimentary bottle of wine and delicious biscuits. The shower was amazing as was the bed where we both had the best sleep! There are lots of walks and places to go but we also really enjoyed just taking in the stunning views from the sofa and reading a book or two in the peace and quiet. We also wandered around the property grounds which were lovely too. We loved our stay and wish we could have stayed for longer. We can't wait to book another stay soon!
Reviewed by Rebecca5.0★Aug 2023
"Would like to have had a toaster and chopping board."
Also needed a rubber mat in the shower but we had brought one in case it was needed. I would not have been able to shower if we had not done so. There were dirty socks in the wardrobe.
Beautiful position and perfect for peace and quiet.
Thanks for the positive comment, however unsure why the feedback given is so low, especially as the last 9 reviews have been 100/100. With regards to negative points raised:
Toaster - there is a toasting grill feature within the oven.
Chopping board - there is one present on the work surface, adjacent to hob.
Shower - the shower is a walk in type that is of a modern design that does not require a mat, if requested we are happy to purchase one.
Dirty socks - Unsure how this would have occured. We use professional cleaning services for every changeover & always check the annexe over prior to guests arriving.
We offer a welcome to all our guests on arrival and ask them to raise any issues during their stay, so that we may address these immediately to make their holiday more enjoyable.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Jandy4.1★Jul 2023
"We had a fabulous holiday at the Observatory Annexe and were made to feel very welcome by our hosts Debbie and Ian."
Debbie greeted us on arrival and they both came to see us on the morning we left. During our stay we had one small problem with the tv remote and this was sorted straight away.
The annexe itself is delightful and very modern. It is well equipped and comfortable. The view onto the patio and beyond is stunning. We enjoyed our walks with our little dog through the private woodland.
The Surrey Hills area itself is really beautiful and there are many interesting places to explore. We climbed both Box Hill and Leith Hill to admire the stunning views from the top. Dorking was a very nice place and we made good use of the excellent butchers there
. Thankyou for our welcome gifts and for introducing us to Denbies vineyard! We can highly recommend the Surrey Gold white wine, the rose and the sparkling too.
The Annexe is a place we would love to visit again and highly recommend.
Lorraine, Neil and Tammi(dog)
Reviewed by Lorraine5.0★Jun 2023
"Super holiday!"
Nothing to complain about at all, the weather was perfect, the holiday home was SO comfortable and the outside seating area was splendid -. especially when the two squirrels shared the space. The choice of walks from the door was splendid too. Thank you.
Reviewed by Susan5.0★Jun 2023
"This was an excellent cottage break."
The surroundings are stunning and the converted cottage is so comfortable, cosy and charming. If you are looking for a peaceful break with amazing walks then this is perfect. Our dog loved it too, as he was able lay by the front door and then get up and walk outside whenever he needed to.
Reviewed by Daniel5.0★Apr 2023
"A lovely, peaceful place to stay."
The annexe has fantastic views yet is within easy reach of Dorking.
The annexe is very well equipped and comfortable and we had a relaxing and happy break.
Reviewed by Antonia5.0★Dec 2022
"Had a lovely time!"
The annexe is a thoughtfully converted outbuilding. It’s modern, clean, stylish and cosy with well-chosen furniture and fittings, and a properly equipped kitchen. The panoramic folding glass doors make the most of the beautiful view directly into the surrounding woods. Privacy was only “disturbed” by a visiting pheasant, squirrels and sundry birds to observe. We even heard an owl! Ideal for a peaceful and relaxing stay, with instant access to lots of woodland walks. The welcoming bottle from the local vineyard was a nice touch - we’ve found a new favourite white wine. Thank you Debbie and Ian, we’d happily come back.
Reviewed by Nicola5.0★Oct 2022
"Our second visit to this amazing property surrounded by a beautiful Woodland and local countryside."
Very peaceful location with friendly owners on hand for suggestions of places to visit and anything you may need during your stay.
Reviewed by Margaret5.0★Oct 2022
"Stunning location."
Warm welcome from hosts, very helpful. We appreciated the good bottle of local wine and other touches. Accommodation was modern, compact and comfortable. Very clean and all mod cons. We had a great stay
Reviewed by Jeremy5.0★Sep 2022
"Spotlessly clean comfortable and stylish
Surrey Hills is such a beautiful area ..."
Spotlessly clean comfortable and stylish
Surrey Hills is such a beautiful area
Walking in the woodland grounds was just magical
Reviewed by Christine5.0★Sep 2022
"The annexe was perfect."
Finished to a very high standard and ideal for a short stay. All amenities were catered for and the hosts were very welcoming. Incredible views of the estate and surrounding hills to boost with direct access to local walks/trails.
Reviewed by Alex5.0★Sep 2022
"Nice relaxing time pleasant surroundings."
Owner's friendly &helpful.
Reviewed by Margaret4.4★Sep 2022
"This is a lovely property, location and place to stay which I'd highly recommend."
I downgraded it slightly on cleanliness as the fridge wasn't spotlessly clean (signs of previous food) and whoever dusts had missed some of the narrower surfaces (eg ledges). Other than that - fab!
Thank you for your feedback. We do apologise for the small issues picked up regarding cleanliness, we had just employed the services of a new cleaning company and will ensure that the annexe is checked after cleaning should we use their services again.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Hester4.7★Aug 2022
"Had a lovely weeks holiday at the Observatory Annexe."
Good position amongst the owners 18 acres of woodland area. Nice welcome pack.
Very clean and well equipped kitchen.
The owners Ian and Debbie are lovely
Very helpful regarding our car problem.
Highly recommend 5* luxury, will definitely return
Thanks
John, Carol & Millie
Reviewed by John5.0★Jul 2022
"Great setting hidden in the Surry Hills."
Well modernised and very comfortable. Near to Dorking and fab dog walks. Would love to go there again.
Reviewed by Dave5.0★Jul 2022
"A very well equipped cottage in wonderful surroundings."
Reviewed by Helen5.0★Jul 2022
"The annexe was excellent, very clean, comfortable and cosy."
The surrounding grounds surpassed all our expectations and is an ideal haven to be in touch with nature and revitalise your spirits. Ian and Debbie were extremely friendly and welcoming and always available if needed. Thank you both for such an amazing holiday.
Reviewed by Margaret5.0★Jun 2022
"Small and cute Cottage in a private area."
Reviewed by Stephan5.0★May 2022
"Excellent property and location for a quiet and relaxing break."
Beautiful views, walks direct from the property and access to a private woods.
Reviewed by Michael5.0★May 2022
"Beautiful place owned by lovely people."
Everything we needed was on hand. Comfiest bed and nicest shower we’ve ever used! The perfect peaceful getaway with your own private forest?! Unreal, definitely coming back!
Reviewed by Bradley5.0★Apr 2022
"Excellent base for exploring Surrey One of the best views we have had from a ..."
Excellent base for exploring Surrey One of the best views we have had from a self catering property Plenty to do round about
Will visit again
Possible additions to kitchen would be a teapot and pepper mill
Thanks for the suggestions they are now in place.
Kind regards
Debbie and Ian.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Paul4.7★Mar 2022
"Lovely little cottage, in beautiful surroundings."
Ideal for a quiet few days away. Welcoming owners. We would stay there again.
Reviewed by Jennie5.0★Mar 2022
"We will definitely be back to stay after such a great time."
The property was perfect and has such a nice feel to it, which combined with the lovely private forest makes this a unique place to stay. Ian was very helpful and we even managed to see the family of deer on our morning walks!
Reviewed by Paul5.0★Feb 2022
"Lovely quiet place to stay with grounds to explore."
Everything we needed to relax and get away.
Reviewed by Philippa5.0★Feb 2022
"Comments already shared in the guestbook, and publishable."
Reviewed by Martin4.4★Jan 2022
"A fantastic location and a comfortable cottage."
The grounds are incredible and it's really a pleasure wandering around them. However I would have liked to know in advance that I had to keep my dog on the lead all the time. She's not very confident with other dogs so I book these kind of places so that she's free to run and that wasn't possible here. Nevertheless absolutely amazing grounds. In the cottage everything you needed was on hand though not having a covered areas to put on and take off muddy boots was a bit of a nuisance. It meant that mud was tramped into the cottage or that the door had to be left open while you each had a go on the mat. Again not a huge issue but is something that I thought could be better. The bed was the most comfortable I've ever slept in I think. I'd really like to know what mattress is was. I wasn't very well while I was there and the bed was just lovely to snuggle up in. It's quite a minimalist set up, very smart and sleek but for me it lacked that cosy feeling.
Overall a fabulous place to stay with some minor bits that could be improved to make it 5 star all categories.
We are fortunate to have a proliferation of wildlife that have made our grounds their home, by requesting that dogs are kept on a lead, this is for the safety of wildlife and your dog. It’s unlikely that the family of dear that have taken residence would stay if dogs were allowed to run, and whilst pheasants are present in large numbers, these would likely also dwindle in sightings. The request is so that the wildlife continues for all guests to enjoy. We are adjacent to open countryside for dog walks off leash.
Thanks for the feedback re the muddy boots, we just have bought a boot box that solves this issue. Also thanks for the comments re the mattress; it’s a Hypnos.
Property Owner
The cottage was very clean, easy to use and stylish too.
Reviewed by Susan5.0★Oct 2021
"We had an extremely relaxing stay at this lovely private little cottage."
Ian and Debbie have done a lovely job, there’s everything that you need. Plus there’s the benefit of the grounds to walk in and, having our dog with us, we found this very useful. The bed is comfortable so we slept very well and the shower is top notch! I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending this cottage to friends and family.
Reviewed by Ian5.0★Sep 2021
"Friendly and informative hosts, beautiful and relaxing surroundings, you could stay here for a holiday and not use your car if you were walkers or cyclists."
With many lovely areas to visit by car within a 5 mile radius .
One of the most relaxing holidays we have had , in the uk .
Sykes were really helpful checking out our needs for the holiday and the accommodation exceeded our expectations.
Electric oven, gas hob, microwave, coffee machine with complementary pods, fridge/freezer washer/dryer and dishwasher
TV and WiFi
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Highchair and travel cot available on request
Off-road parking for 2 cars
Garden with patio and furniture
One well-behaved dog welcome (Please note that dogs are not to be left alone in the property unless crated)
Sorry, no smoking
Shop 1.3 miles, pub 1.2 miles
The property
Nestled within 18-acres of private woodland, boasting stunning scenery and fantastic walking routes within a designated AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), this luxurious, all-ground floor property,
The Observatory Annexe, is the perfect romantic getaway.
Drive through the luscious greenery, up to the abode, which is located near to the main house and conveniently park outside to easily manoeuvre your belongings.
Leave everyday life behind as you enter this beautifully appointed space, discover the sitting room with its emerald, green sofa, the ideal spot to snuggle up and unwind with an engrossing film or simply enjoy the stunning view.
There is a stunning, but simple, matt charcoal galley kitchen with a granite work top, where you can prepare simple dishes for your loved one.
After, open a bottle of wine to enjoy a refreshing glass on the patio terrace; soak in the delightful views.
When the sun has set, make your way inside and indulge yourself in the luxurious bathroom to prepare for a night's embrace.
Dry yourself off and head to the bright and airy bedroom, where a sumptuous double bed awaits you, climb into bed and open a book to take advantage of the tranquil setting.
Lace up your walking boots, taking your canine companion and discover the splendour of nature surrounding you, explore the lost private gardens of the former Barclay family estate, or venture further afield along the paths leading to local beauty spots.
Hop in the car and take a short drive into the pretty market town of Dorking, known for its independent & antique shops, where you can rummage around at your leisure and choose from a superb selection of pubs and restaurants to enjoy a home-cooked meal out.
Dorking is home to riveting history, including Dorking Museum & Heritage Centre for a multi-sensory experience and The Deepdene Trail, where you can explore the woodlands on foot and learn at the same time.
Be sure to visit Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for iconic sights, you are on the doorstep of Box Hill, Ranmore, Norbury Park & Leith Hill – all boasting the most amazing views across the Surrey countryside.
Travel to the town of Guildford for some retail therapy at the Friary Shopping Centre or on the historic high street and afterwards indulge in a sit-down meal at a traditional pub or in one of the numerous restaurants.
For a romantic escape with your loved one, stay at
The Observatory Annexe
Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £100.
View on map
Where you’ll be staying
DORKING
Surrey Hills 3.5 miles, Leatherhead 6.3 miles; Guildford 12.8 miles
The charming, market town of Dorking is dominated by the stunning Surrey Hills, with a vastness of wooded land for scenic walks. Dorking is an idyllic place to wander around, rummage around a fantastic selection of shops with boutiques, arts and crafts shops, as well as engrossing art galleries. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in one of many cafes, restaurants and pubs and be sure to take a nose in its vintage shops for unique garments. For a multi-sensory learning experience, visit Dorking Museum & Heritage Centre, which boasts a selection of historical photographs, postcards, maps and archive books. Live entertainment can be found at The Green Room Theatre and Dorking Halls for eccentric entertainment. Dorking is settled near the picturesque town of Leatherhead, home to beautiful architecture and luscious greenery and within easy reach of the historical town of Guildford with medieval Guildford Castle taking centre stage of the town.
This property offers the following short breaks:
Winter
Off-season
Last minute
Christmas
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