A Country Pub Lunch:
The Mill at Elstead, Godalming
Perched on the River Wey, The Mill at Elstead is the archetypal traditional pub. With its flagstone floors and open fireplaces, it’s a cosy retreat after a gentle meander along the pretty River Wey and surrounding countryside. For Mother’s Day, there’s live music and a special menu of traditional roasts and classic desserts – the Bakewell tart is a highlight! Dating back to 1647, The Mill functioned as a corn mill until the late 18th century; while during World War II, it was used as a hospital for wounded soldiers. With a working water wheel and resident swans, it’s a little bit of magic in the Surrey countryside.
A Decadent Afternoon Tea:
Great Fosters, Egham
Whether you’re celebrating your mum, a mum-to-be, grandma or marking the memory of a mother no longer around; an elegant afternoon tea is the ideal way to raise a glass to your special person. At Great Fosters Hotel, the Mother’s Day Champagne Afternoon Tea is served in both the Anne Boleyn Drawing Room and Garden Room and includes a glass of bubbly and gift for each mother. As well as artisan teas and classic sandwiches, tuck into scones and a selection of French patisserie, including an orange and rose choux bun that’s straight out of Paris. Built in 1550, Great Fosters once served as a royal hunting lodge and among its highlights are the 50 acres of gardens thought to be among the finest in Europe: just the place to work off that clotted cream!
£60 per person, alexanderhotels.co.uk
A Glamorous Supper:
Scott’s Richmond
For a grown-up, ‘dress-up’ dinner, head to Scott’s Richmond, the sister property belonging to the Mayfair stalwart. The Richmond outpost echoes Scott’s celebration of seafood in a beautifully opulent dining room with shimmering mirrored ceilings, sparkling Venetian chandeliers and jewel-coloured velvet seating. At its heart – just like in Scott’s of Mayfair – is a centrepiece ‘Crustacean Bar’. You can’t go wrong with starched, white tablecloths, a buzzy atmosphere and a menu that includes platters of fruits du mer, lobster thermidor and even a classic Sunday roast option. If you’re lucky enough to bag a table for the 10th March, all mothers will receive a bouquet of flowers; but dining here, no matter the date, feels like a special occasion.
A Local Family Dinner:
Derby Arms
Why not take the family for a walk across Epsom Downs, knowing you’ve booked a surprise meal at the local gastro pub, the Derby Arms? Recently refurbished, for Mother’s Day it’s hosting a special Prosecco Menu in collaboration with Freixenet Prosecco D.O.C. The menu features a choice of starters, from pan-fried wild scallops or baked camembert with artisan breads; while main courses include a choice of Sunday roasts, rib-eye steak or healthy nourish bowls. End celebrations with the chocolate bomb or berry pavlova; the perfect sweetener.
£33.95 for three courses and £6 for a glass of Prosecco; thederbyarmsepsom.co.uk
Coffee and cake:
Petersham Nurseries, Richmond
Surrounded by budding blooms and crumbling pots of greenery, the Teahouse at Petersham Nurseries is an evocative space made for garden-loving mamas. Pop along for breakfast or brunch or enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of homemade cake (the courgette, lemon & pistachio cake is a revelation). On Mother’s Day, enjoy a Traditional Afternoon Tea including a children’s menu for little ones not wanting to be left out. Afterwards, browse their shop, where treasures include gardening accessories, vintage furniture and artisan-made vases and glass.
Afternoon Tea is from £55 per person, petershamnurseries.com