Albury Downs

The Downs near Albury deliver proper Surrey woodland walking - ancient trees, quiet paths, and enough space to actually hear yourself think. It's forest in the classic English sense: dense canopy, roots everywhere, that particular smell of damp earth and decomposing leaves that makes you remember why you left the town.

There's no visitor centre or facilities to speak of, which is either brilliant or annoying depending on your mood. You simply turn up and walk. The paths wind through beech and oak, opening occasionally onto views across the valley towards Guildford. It's not dramatic scenery, but it's genuine and unmanicured. Most visitors seem to be locals with dogs, which tells you something.

This suits walkers absolutely, particularly those after a two-to-three hour loop rather than an all-day expedition. Families with younger kids might find it a bit samey after an hour - there's no lake, no playground, no obvious focal point. Older children who can handle uneven ground and don't need constant distractions will get on fine.

Access appears free, though you should check locally as these things change. Spring's the best time, when the woodland floor floods with bluebells and the light breaks through properly. Summer feels oppressive and thick.

If you're camping at Chantry Wood or Edgeley - both just 2.2 miles away - this is an obvious morning option before heading elsewhere. It's a solid addition to a Surrey Hills break rather than a destination in itself. Worth the detour from Guildford town centre if you've got the time, but don't expect anything showy.