Littlelee Wood

Proper ancient woodland doesn't get much more authentic than this. Littlelee Wood sprawls across Surrey's rolling countryside just outside Leatherhead, offering the kind of deep, quiet woodland walking that's becoming increasingly rare in the South East. The trees here feel old - really old - with gnarled oak and beech creating a proper canopy overhead.

Walking through the dappled light filtering through centuries-old branches, you'll find a network of informal paths that wind between mossy fallen logs and seasonal wildflowers. It's the sort of place where children instinctively start building dens and collecting interesting sticks, while adults rediscover what proper silence sounds like.

Families staying at nearby sites like Embers Camping near Polesden Lacey or the Horsley Camping and Caravanning Club will find this a lovely contrast to more manicured countryside attractions. Dog walkers absolutely love it here - plenty of space to roam and that wonderful earthy woodland smell that sends spaniels into raptures.

Allow at least an hour for a decent wander, though you could easily spend a morning here if the weather's fine. Best visited in spring when the bluebells emerge, or autumn when the leaf litter crunches satisfyingly underfoot. It's free woodland access, naturally, though parking might be limited depending on which entrance you find.