Manor Park

You'll find yourself in a proper pocket of Surrey woodland that genuinely feels like you've stepped off the beaten track, even though Redhill's practically on your doorstep. Manor Park is a working nature reserve - not the sort of place where everything's manicured and roped off, but rather somewhere the wildlife comes first and visitors second.

The reserve itself is a mix of woodland and open ground, threading through with footpaths that are straightforward enough for families but long enough to feel like a proper walk rather than a stroll around the block. Birdwatchers will get more out of it than most - there's decent variety if you come at the right time of year - and the woodlands are genuinely lovely in late spring when the canopy fills out.

It's free to access and there's no official visitor centre, which keeps things refreshingly low-key. You'll want to allow a couple of hours to do it justice, maybe less if you're just after fresh air and a short ramble. Bring binoculars if you've got them. The muddy patches are genuine, so proper boots are wise rather than trainers.

If you're staying at Alderstead Heath Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite down the road, this works brilliantly as a morning or afternoon break from the more formal park routine. It's the sort of spot that reminds you why you came to Surrey in the first place rather than sitting by the caravan.