Normandy Hill

The walk up Normandy Hill rewards you with proper Surrey views - rolling woodland, distant church spires, and on a clear day, glimpses toward the North Downs. It's not a dramatic scramble, more a steady plod through beech and oak, but that's rather the point. From the summit you can see why people bothered to live out here centuries ago.

Walkers will get the most from this one. It takes about an hour round trip from Normandy village, which sits just a few miles south of Guildford. The paths are well-maintained, though muddy after rain - proper hiking boots wouldn't go amiss. Families with younger legs might find it a bit steady for what amounts to pleasant tree-lined walking without dramatic payoff.

It's free to access, naturally. Early morning or late afternoon light works best here - the woods can feel a touch gloomy in deep shade at midday. Allow two hours if you're stopping to take in the view properly and eat a sandwich at the top.

If you're based at Wyldecrest Surrey Hills or Chapel Farm Park, both within easy driving distance, Normandy Hill makes a solid morning or afternoon outing. It pairs well with exploring Tilford or Godalming's town centre. What it isn't is a standalone destination - think of it more as a proper walk that justifies a weekend in the Surrey Hills rather than something you'd drive up from London to tick off.