Flying the flag high for British pubs as they should be, The Teller’s Arms has quickly cemented itself as a local hub since opening in October last year. Nestled in the heart of the Farnham community, just a short walk from the impressive Farnham Castle, this Young’s establishment doesn’t feel like part of a chain. Instead, it exudes character, warmth, and a keen attention to detail that elevates it beyond the standard pub offering.
The venue’s history as an old bank is subtly woven into the décor, with the original Tellers banking clock still in place. The interiors strike a perfect balance between bistro-style elegance and heritage charm – moss green and burgundy hues set a warm, inviting tone, complemented by intricate William Morris-tiling and rich textures that evoke a refined boutique feel. High-top tables with glass inlays showcasing old coins pay homage to the building’s past, while the heated rooftop terrace provides a stylish year-round retreat for enjoying drinks with a view.
For those making a night of it, The Teller’s Arms houses nine stylish bedrooms. Be warned, there are quite a few stairs to climb, but accessible courtyard rooms cater to all needs. The two room types include a cosy boutique option (perfect for two and a furry friend) and a more spacious boutique suite featuring four-poster beds and freestanding bathtubs. The latter is ideal whether you have kids in tow or just fancy an extra touch of luxury, complete with plush Bramley toiletries to smooth over your skin.
Little details make the stay extra special – on arrival, a warm spiced apple drink and homemade honeycomb provide a sweet welcome. A thoughtfully curated “Borrowers” kids’ box, filled with colouring materials, books, cars, and games, ensures younger guests are entertained. Rooms are well-equipped with a fully stocked bar, snacks, a Nespresso Vertuo coffee machine, and modern essentials like USB ports and plug sockets at each bedside.
Hypnos beds guarantee a restful night, while the rainfall showers and superb soundproofing remove any concerns about sleeping above a lively pub. The “Do Not Disturb” signs are a playful touch – wooden hangers with witty messages like “Having a snooze” or “Gone to the pub” set the tone perfectly. And on that note, let’s talk about the food and drink.
The cocktail menu may be compact, but it’s curated with quality in mind. The Banana Old Fashioned was a standout, while the Bakewell Tart cocktail lived up to its name – so delicious you’ll find yourself ordering another without hesitation. Classic drinks like the Espresso Martini and Picante sit alongside creative reinventions such as the Lemon Negroni. The wine list includes a thoughtful nod to British wineries, while the draft beer and ale selection stays true to traditional pub roots.
The open-plan kitchen allows diners to watch the chefs in action as they prepare a menu that balances British pub classics with a Teller’s Arms twist. The pie and mash and fish & chips were clear winners among diners, while the ribeye steak – sourced locally from Farnham Family Butchers was cooked to perfection, bursting with flavour and served alongside chunky chips and a rich peppercorn sauce. The day-boat scampi starter impressed with its presentation and taste, while the French onion soup and celeriac, samphire & onion bhaji offered comforting and flavourful options.
No pub menu is complete without sticky toffee pudding, and The Teller’s Arms delivers on this front with a classic take that hits all the right notes. Seasonal desserts include an orange-infused bread & butter pudding and a warming apple, fig & chestnut crumble. The “Little Teller’s” menu ensures younger guests are well-fed with familiar yet elevated options – standout choices include sausages packed with proper flavour and a heritage squash orzo pasta.
Breakfast is worth setting an early alarm for, offering everything from a Full English made with top-quality ingredients to Croissant ‘Croque Madame’ and French toast. Sourdough, sturdy enough to soak up the delicious juices without turning soggy, elevates simple dishes like avocado and chilli on toast. A selection of breakfast cocktails rounds out the morning experience for those who like to start the day in style.
Whether stopping in for a drink, a meal, or an overnight stay, The Teller’s Arms proves that British pubs can still do it all – with style, substance, and a healthy dose of charm.
Teller’s Arms, Castle Street, Farnham, Surrey, GU9 7LP
