Hog's Back

The Hog's Back is a proper ridge walk just outside Guildford, and it delivers one of those views that makes you understand why people bother with Surrey at all. The walk itself follows a narrow chalk ridge - genuinely quite dramatic in places - with steep slopes dropping away on both sides. On a clear day you can see for miles across the Weald, and the path is easy enough that you won't spend the whole time worrying about your footing.

It's about three miles there and back from the car park near Guildford, and most people can do it in an hour or so without rushing. The ridge narrows in the middle section, which feels properly adventurous if you've got kids in tow, though it's never actually dangerous. Walkers will love it - the path is well-maintained and the surrounding woodland is quiet enough that you feel properly away from things despite being minutes from town.

The ridge marks an old pilgrim route to Canterbury, which adds a bit of historical weight to the walk, though this isn't a destination where you stop at plaques and ponder. You're here for the walking and the views. Come on a weekday morning if you can - weekends get busy with the Guildford crowd.

If you're camping at Chantry Wood or Firesyde, both within five miles, this makes an ideal morning before settling back for a quieter afternoon. For something less strenuous, pair it with the meadows at Tilford Woods Lodge Retreat nearby. It's free, accessible year-round, and properly worth half a day of your time.