Outwood Common

The common rolls out across Surrey with that particular kind of open grassland you either love or find a bit underwhelming - depends what you're after. Outwood Common sits just outside Lingfield and gives you proper walking country without needing to drive miles. The landscape is gently undulating, with scattered trees and patches of heathland that shift through the seasons. Walkers will find it straightforward terrain, nothing technical, just good paths and space to stretch out.

It's the sort of place that rewards a proper wander rather than a quick loop. Birdwatchers do well here, and if you're into local history, the common has that layered Surrey heritage - common land that's been used for centuries. The windmill nearby at Outwood is worth factoring in if you're making an afternoon of it. That's proper old - one of the oldest surviving windmills in the country.

If you're camping at Long Acres or one of the other caravan sites nearby, this works as an easy half-day excursion without burning petrol. Families with young kids will manage it fine, though there's nothing specifically designed to hold their attention. Older walkers and history types will get more from it. Go early in the morning if you can - the common feels less crowded and you get better light. There's parking at the common itself, though it can fill up on weekends. Free to access, naturally. Allow two to three hours for a proper circuit.