Mosshouse Walk

The path through Mosshouse Walk cuts straight into proper Sussex woodland, all dripping branches and earthy floor that squelches underfoot after rain. It's a forest walk rather than a destination in itself - roughly 20 to 30 minutes depending on which route you take - and it sits just outside Dorking, making it ideal if you're camping at nearby Sands Farm and need to stretch your legs without heading too far.

What you get is a genuine woodland experience without the crowds. Oak and beech trees dominate, the canopy thick enough that even on bright days it feels cool and slightly mysterious. The moss does live up to its name - everything's covered in it, which is half the charm and half the reason to watch your footing. The paths are well-used enough to be obvious but not so manicured that they feel sterile.

This works best for families wanting a short woodland amble with young children, or for anyone who just fancies clearing their head between camp and a pub meal in Dorking. History types won't find much - there's nothing particularly old or dramatic here, just forest. Serious walkers might feel it's a bit brief, though it's a solid warm-up for longer hikes in the area.

Admission appears to be free. Go in autumn when the light's golden between the trees, or after rain when the whole place smells of soil and growth. Allow an hour if you're in no rush and want to poke around.