Frimley Lodge Park

The lodge itself is a proper Victorian affair, all red brick and period detail, standing in the middle of what's become a decent local park on the outskirts of Guildford. It's not one of those grand estates that'll keep you wandering for hours - more a solid local amenity with some walking routes and open space around it. The building has that faded institutional feel, the kind of place that's been through various incarnations and is now doing its bit for the community.

If you're staying at Chapel Farm Park or Wyldecrest Surrey Hills, this is a reasonable leg-stretch without travelling far. Families with younger kids will get a decent walk out of it, though teenagers might find it a bit underwhelming if you're expecting proper gardens or attractions. The real appeal is as a stopping point rather than a destination - a bit of parkland, some fresh air, and a chance to see what Guildford's outer edges look like.

The walk between the lodge and surrounding grounds takes maybe thirty minutes if you mooch about, longer if you're the thorough type. There's nothing to stop you combining it with other bits of Surrey - you're only a few miles from more substantial attractions if this doesn't quite scratch the itch. Admission details aren't widely publicised, suggesting it's either free or a nominal charge. Best visited midweek when locals aren't out in force.