Box Hill Viewpoint

Standing at 224 metres above sea level, this famous Surrey summit delivers one of the finest panoramas in southern England. On a clear day, you can see right across the Weald to the South Downs, with London's towers just visible on the northern horizon. Jane Austen wrote about this very view in Emma, and it's easy to see why Victorian day-trippers flocked here by train.

Walkers will find this the perfect reward after tackling the North Downs Way, which passes right through the site. The climb from Tadworth station takes about 45 minutes and gets properly steep towards the end - wear decent shoes. Families with young children might prefer driving up and parking at the National Trust car park, though spaces fill up quickly on sunny weekends.

History enthusiasts can explore the remains of a Napoleonic-era fort while they're up here. The chalk downland supports rare orchids and butterflies - June and July are brilliant months for wildflowers.

Box Hill makes an excellent day out from any of the nearby holiday parks around Surrey Hills National Landscape. Combined with a visit to Polesden Lacey or a walk through Norbury Park, it's well worth building a full day around this corner of Surrey. Just bring layers - it's always windier up here than you expect.