Redlands Wood

Ancient beech trees tower overhead while dappled sunlight filters through the canopy at this proper woodland escape just outside Westcott. Redlands Wood covers a decent patch of Surrey countryside, with well-trodden paths winding through mixed deciduous forest that's particularly lovely in autumn when the leaves turn copper and gold.

Dog walkers make up the majority of visitors here, and you'll understand why once you've seen how much space there is to roam. The main circular route takes about 45 minutes at a steady pace, though there are plenty of smaller tracks branching off if you fancy exploring further. Kids will enjoy the fallen logs perfect for balancing acts and the occasional clearing where they can run about.

Being free to access and open year-round, it's the sort of place that works brilliantly as a morning stretch-the-legs stop before heading back to your base. The wood sits conveniently close to several glamping spots including Surrey Hills Yurts and The Green Escape, making it an easy add-on to a Surrey Hills break. Don't expect dramatic views or Instagram-worthy vistas - this is more about getting lost among the trees for an hour and breathing in that proper woodland air.