Derry's Wood

Walk into Derry's Wood and you're immediately swallowed by proper woodland - tall oaks, dense undergrowth, the works. It's a straightforward forest experience just outside Guildford, the kind of place where you can lose an hour wandering without seeing another soul. The paths wind through mixed woodland, muddy in places, leafy underfoot when the seasons turn. No visitor centre, no gift shop, no fanfare - just trees and quiet.

This suits walkers who want a genuine bit of Surrey woodland rather than a managed attraction. Kids will enjoy it if they're the exploring type; the freedom to poke about among fallen logs and streams keeps them entertained longer than a manicured park might. Bring proper boots though - it gets boggy after rain. Allow 90 minutes to two hours for a decent circuit.

Admission's free, which helps when you're not entirely sure what to expect. It's close enough to Guildford for a morning walk before heading into town for lunch. If you're camping at Edgeley Holiday Park or Chantry Wood Campsite, both within a couple of miles, this makes a solid leg-stretcher without driving halfway across the county. Firesyde is another option if you're after a slightly longer outing. Winter's actually the best time - better visibility, fewer insects, and the bare trees let you see the structure of the woodland properly.