Abinger Hammer Clock

Dangling over the A25 on its distinctive metal bracket, this working Victorian timepiece has been keeping Surrey folk punctual since 1909. The clock sits proudly above the road through Abinger Hammer village, complete with a mechanical blacksmith figure who strikes the bell on the hour - though you'll need to time your visit right to catch the little chap in action.

Kids absolutely love spotting the tiny hammer-wielding figure, and it's become something of a tradition for families to stop the car and wait for the hourly performance. The whole thing takes about thirty seconds, so don't expect a lengthy show.

Honestly, it's more of a 'blink and you'll miss it' sort of attraction than a proper day out destination. Worth a quick photo stop if you're driving between Guildford and Dorking, but I wouldn't make a special journey just for this. The village itself is pretty enough for a brief wander, with the Tillingbourne stream running alongside the road.

Families staying at nearby holiday parks like Edgeley or Surrey Hills Yurts often incorporate it into a broader Surrey Hills exploration. Combines well with Polesden Lacey or a walk on Leith Hill - both are within easy reach and offer rather more to fill an afternoon than a single roadside clock, however endearing it might be.