Fern Holt stands quietly on the outskirts of Shere, in the county of Surrey—a much-loved family house, nestled within five acres of secluded grounds where ferns grow thick and winding paths lead the eye towards the hills. The picturesque village of Shere, with its ancient stone lanes, cottages and honest country inns, lies but a short walk away.
From the house, the view unfolds across the rolling Surrey Hills—a landscape of gentle grandeur, where morning mists and the long light of evening move slowly over the fields. It is a place that captures the heart of every visitor. For those who love the open air, the footpaths and bridleways stretch out in every direction, inviting long walks and rides through woodland and meadow. Should you wish it, private yoga sessions may be arranged—practised on the lawn beneath the sky, or in the warm glow of the drawing-room fire.
Fern Holt has been a home of memories since the day it was built. For three generations, it was the country retreat of the Hartfield family, who cherished its quiet rhythms and simple comforts. In 2018, the house passed into the care of Mr James, a Chinese businessman who became its new steward, honouring its past while preparing it for a new life.
Now, for the first time, Fern Holt opens its doors to guests from China—an invitation to experience the warmth of English country life as it ought to be lived. Whether you come with family for a holiday, gather friends to celebrate a special occasion, or seek a quiet setting for a company retreat, you will find no more fitting place.
We look forward to welcoming you to Fern Holt.
From the windows of Fern Holt, the Surrey Hills unfold in all their quiet grandeur—a landscape of gentle pastures and sweeping ridges, where morning mists drift through the valleys and the long light of evening settles slowly over the fields. It is a view that lingers in the heart, and one that calls you back, time and again.
For those who love the outdoor life, Fern Holt offers an abundance of ways to explore the countryside. Footpaths and bridleways wind through woodland and hedgerow, inviting quiet walks on foot or leisurely rides on horseback. Should you wish to venture further afield, a private golf course lies nearby—its fairways as smooth as velvet, its greens framed by far-reaching views. Closer to home, a tennis court awaits a friendly match in the afternoon sun, with the hills as your only spectators. For the equestrian enthusiast, the local stables can arrange guided hacks across the downs, from gentle led walks for beginners to spirited canters across open turf for the more experienced.
When the day calls for stillness, private yoga sessions may be arranged—practised on the lawn beneath the stars, or indoors by the warm glow of the drawing-room fire, as you breathe and let the world fall quiet.
At Fern Holt, the rhythm of each day is yours to choose.
“Spectacular venue! Fabulous house and iconic views. We took the house for a birthday party and the accommodation for guests from London, all be it only 45 mins drive away. Every thing went seamlessly, from arrival to departure. Not only is the location perfect the rooms have a great balance between luxury and cosiness.”
“After escaping a rather awful hotel nearby it was a joy to come to this delightful place. Everything was faultless, the hosts charming and helpful, the house beautiful and very comfortable. After a delicious breakfast I enjoyed walking in the lovely countryside around the house. I look forward to returning soon.”
Mr. James is a Chinese businessman who became the steward of Fern Holt in 2018.
As the custodian of this historic English country house situated in the Surrey Hills, he has lovingly preserved its timeless heritage while opening its doors to guests, including those from China. Under his stewardship, Fern Holt offers a refined blend of traditional English charm and warm hospitality, making it an idyllic private retreat for family holidays, celebrations, and corporate gatherings.
