Millenium Cairn

You'll find this modest stone monument on the Surrey hills, a few miles from Redhill - the sort of landmark that makes you wonder what possessed someone to haul rocks up here at the turn of the millennium. It's a cairn, essentially, built to mark the year 2000, and it sits in a spot with proper views across the Weald if you're in the mood for a short walk.

The thing is, it's not exactly a destination in itself. You don't rock up and spend two hours here. What it does offer is a decent focal point if you're already walking the local footpaths, or if you're curious about how communities marked the millennium (badly, mostly, but fair play for trying). History enthusiasts might appreciate the local significance, though it won't tell you much beyond "people lived here and liked round numbers."

It's free to visit - you're outdoors - and you can see it whenever. The real value is combining it with walking from nearby Alderstead Heath Caravan and Motorhome Club, which sits barely two miles away and gives you a solid base for exploring the area. If you're after longer rambles, Milberry Green Meadows a bit further out also works as a launching pad.

Kids won't get much out of lingering here, but walkers will appreciate the views and the excuse to get moving. Realistic verdict: worth a detour if you're already in the hills, not worth driving across Surrey for.