Juniper Top

The walk up to Juniper Top is straightforward enough, though the final push gets properly steep. You're heading for a genuine high point in the Surrey Hills landscape - a rare vantage where the undulating countryside suddenly opens up in all directions. The summit itself is marked by juniper scrub and rough grassland, with views that stretch across the Weald if the weather cooperates. On a clear day you can pick out the line of the South Downs falling away to the south.

This is walkers' territory above all else. It's the sort of place that rewards a proper hike rather than a quick car-park stroll - allow a couple of hours to appreciate it properly, and bring decent boots if the ground's been wet. Families with young children might find it underwhelming as a standalone destination, but it works brilliantly as a waypoint during a longer Surrey Hills ramble from Tadworth. History buffs will be disappointed - there's no particular story attached to the place, just geography.

The real value lies in combining Juniper Top with the broader walking network of the area. Base yourself at Surrey Hills Yurts or Henfold Lakes - both within striking distance - and you've got proper hill country on your doorstep without the trudge of the South Downs proper. Free to access, obviously. Go on a weekday morning if possible to avoid the weekend crowds who've discovered the same loop. The ridge here catches every weather system that rolls through, so time it right and you'll have the place nearly to yourself.