Abinger Roughs

Ancient heathland and scattered woodland spread across this corner of the Surrey Hills, offering proper old-fashioned rambling without the crowds. The rough grassland here has barely changed since medieval times, when commoners grazed their cattle and cut bracken for bedding. You'll find gorse, birch and oak dotted about, with sandy paths winding between the trees and open patches where skylarks still nest.

Walkers will love the network of footpaths that connect through to the North Downs Way, while families can let kids run free on the open ground - though you'll need to keep an eye on little ones as paths aren't always obvious. The terrain's fairly gentle but can get muddy after rain.

Being National Trust land, access is free year-round from dawn to dusk. An hour or two is plenty unless you're planning a longer hike towards Leith Hill. It's particularly lovely in early summer when the gorse blooms yellow, though autumn brings good colour too.

From Westcott, it's an easy drive up Abinger Lane. This makes a decent addition to a Surrey Hills break, especially if you're staying at one of the glamping spots nearby. The area works well combined with visits to Box Hill or Polesden Lacey for a proper dose of countryside without venturing too far from civilization.