Tanners Hatch Independent Hostel

08/07/2026

Great work!

28/06/2026

Massive 50th anniversary congratulations to the gloriously inspiring team at Elenydd Wilderness Hostels - Dolgoch & Ty’n Cornel. You have helped us so much to secure Tanners Hatch. Here's to many, many more years for you. And here's to lots more simple Independent hostels too.

24/06/2026

News from the Tanners Hatch garden. There’s currently a fantastic crop of wild strawberries and cherries on offer! On the other hand much of the garden is looking lush, or to put it another way overgrown. We’ll have to get some work parties down there soon to do some pruning and digging. It’ll be worth it

10/06/2026

Just sharing the impressive vonluteer spirit that powers our next door neighbour indy hostel at Puttenham. The care and skill is evident when you stay there.

The Puttenham team have also been incredibly generous with their time in helping Tanners to be saved and up and running again.

Looking forward to being great neighbours, next stop along the North Downs Way and Pilgrims Way 😀

So much of what makes Puttenham Barn Bunkhouse feel special comes from people who quietly give their time and care. 🫶

Here are Martin and Dave, they've been hard at work behind the scenes, reinstalling the sheet roof in the wardens’ office to help keep it warmer and more comfortable — joined by a “wounded pilgrim” walker who was there to witness the effort! 🔨🏡

Visitors often notice the atmosphere of the barn: that it feels cared for, looked after, and full of thoughtfulness. That doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from volunteers, wardens, and supporters who put their hands, time and hearts into this place. 💚

From practical jobs to the little eco touches that make the barn feel both simple and special, every act of care matters. Every repair, improvement and thoughtful detail helps make Puttenham Barn Bunkhouse the warm welcome that so many guests need. 🌍🌿

We’re so grateful for the people who keep this place going — often quietly, always generously. ✨

Book a break with us https://puttenhambarn.uk/book.html -start

07/06/2026

Tanners regular Heather Smith, has done these lovely paintings of the hostel, in spring and in snow. From original photos by Steve Poole. There is no wrong time of year to visit Tanners!

30/05/2026

28/05/2026

**LAST MINUTE PLACES AVAILABLE**

Ever fancied escaping to a peaceful rustic barn for a few nights, and welcoming guests from all over the world to the beauty of Surrey? 🌳🌅 Become a volunteer warden for our charity-run bunkhouse and do just that!

Book in for our next FREE warden training day on Friday 29th May, 10am-3pm and find out if it's for you 😍

Email [email protected] to get signed up 🙂
Voluntary Action South West Surrey YHA Volunteering Independent Hostel Guide

16/05/2026

Our plans to reopen Tanners are a bit like one of these at the moment. Not a lot to see on the surface but lots going on out of view. Redesigning the dorms, sourcing furniture, finding everything from coffee cups to bike racks, not to mention all the paperwork and negotiation associated with finalising the lease, insurance, fire safety, building control, etc, etc. Thanks to all our hardworking behind-the-scenes volunteers for their many and varied skills. Still on course to open this summer, provided there are no unexpected hitches in agreeing our lease with the National Trust.

If you’d like to know more, would like to help, want to ask about staying at Tanners, or just want to keep in touch, let us know by emailing [email protected]

30/04/2026

They’re everywhere, across the Surrey Hills and all over social media… and for good reason 💙

Woodland floors have transformed into a sea of colour thanks to the ephemeral bluebells, creating one of those short-lived moments that feels a bit special every year. This display is at its best for just a few more weeks so make the most of it!

Share your favourite bluebell spots in the Surrey Hills 👇