Burh of Eashing

The earthworks at Eashing sit just outside Guildford, easy to walk past if you don't know what you're looking for. What you're actually seeing are the remains of a Saxon fortified settlement - a burgh, to be precise - that dates back around 1,200 years. The banks and ditches are still visible in the landscape, though they've softened considerably since their construction.

This is absolutely one for the archaeology types and local history enthusiasts. Casual visitors might find themselves wondering what exactly they're supposed to be impressed by - the site lacks interpretation boards or any real context on the ground. You'll need to do your homework beforehand or bring along someone who knows their Anglo-Saxon defensive systems. Kids will probably get restless after twenty minutes unless they're genuinely into digging about in muddy ditches.

Access appears to be free and unrestricted, though there's no formal visitor infrastructure to speak of. Allow an hour if you're keen, half that if you're just passing through. The walk itself is pleasant enough, and you're close enough to Guildford to combine it with something more substantial in town.

If you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Chantry Wood or Little Cowdray Farm are the closest - this makes a decent ramble option on a dry day. Don't expect visitor facilities or parking. Honestly, it's the sort of place that rewards knowing why you're there rather than stumbling upon it expecting a proper historical experience.