Purley Way Playing Fields

The Purley Way Playing Fields near Redhill are a straightforward bit of open green space that does what it says on the tin - gives you a place to kick a ball about or take the dog for a proper walk. It's not dramatic or wild. The fields are flat, well-maintained, and lined with trees that provide decent shelter on windy days. You won't find rare orchids or dramatic vistas here, but that's not really the point.

Walkers and families with younger kids will get the most from it. There's room to ramble, and the adjacent nature reserve sections offer a bit of variety if you fancy spotting birds or just stepping off the main track. It's the kind of place you go to for 45 minutes to an hour, not a full afternoon expedition. Dog owners will appreciate the open space and the fact it's never rammed.

Admission appears to be free, which makes sense for a local facility. If you're staying at Milberry Green Meadows just down the road, it's a convenient stretch of the legs between park activities - close enough for a quick visit without faffing about with the car. On a grey Surrey afternoon when you need some air but can't face a proper hike, this delivers. Don't come expecting wild beauty, but do come if you want somewhere unpretentious to move about in.