The Warren

The Warren is a proper woodland walk just outside Guildford, the sort of place locals know about and visitors stumble upon by accident. Dense forest, sandy paths, and enough twists to keep you from knowing exactly where you are - which sounds annoying until you realise that's precisely what makes it good. The trees create a green tunnel effect in summer, and the ground stays reasonably dry even after rain, thanks to all that sandy soil. You're looking at 45 minutes to an hour for a decent ramble, depending on how many false turns you take and whether you stop to sit on a log and just listen. It's free, naturally, and open whenever you fancy it.

Families with young kids will get the most mileage here - there's something about being swallowed by trees that makes children feel like they've actually gone somewhere, even though you're barely 20 minutes from the town centre. Walkers appreciate the lack of crowds and the genuine sense of being in actual forest rather than a managed park. If you're staying at The Green Escape glamping site nearby, this is your morning walk sorted. Ditto for Surrey Hills Yurts or any of the other camping spots within a few miles.

Go early, especially weekends, or you'll be navigating round dog walkers and joggers. Winter's quieter but muddier. Wear proper shoes - trainers will get damp. It won't blow your mind, but it's a solid detour if you're in the area and need to escape the noise of Guildford for a bit.