Lower Canfold Wood

Ancient oak and beech trees tower overhead as you follow the network of muddy tracks that wind through this working woodland near Horsham. Lower Canfold Wood feels properly wild - the sort of place where you'll hear more birdsong than traffic, and where fallen logs create natural obstacle courses for adventurous kids. The paths aren't waymarked, which adds to the sense of exploration but means you'll want decent boots and a reasonable sense of direction.

Families with young children will find plenty to occupy them here. Stick collecting, den building, and wildlife spotting come naturally in this sort of environment. The terrain isn't challenging, though it can get boggy after rain, so older walkers looking for a proper hike might find it a bit tame.

Access appears to be free, as with most Surrey woodlands, though parking can be limited along the country lanes. An hour or two is plenty unless you're planning a serious nature expedition with the kids. The wood works well as a morning adventure if you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Edgeley or Riverside Farm - close enough for a quick escape when the weather turns but far enough from main roads to feel like a proper woodland adventure.