Worth Way Country Park

The Worth Way traces an old railway line that's been converted into a walking and cycling route, running for about 9 miles between Crawley and Haywards Heath. It's essentially a flat, traffic-free path through Surrey countryside - exactly the sort of thing that sounds dull until you actually walk it and realise how peaceful it is.

You'll pass through woodland sections, open fields, and a couple of small settlements along the route. The surface is well-maintained, making it accessible for families with pushchairs or older walkers who'd struggle on rougher terrain. On a clear day the views aren't spectacular, but there's something rather satisfying about the rhythm of an easy walk without worrying about traffic.

It works brilliantly if you're staying at Hook Farm Campsite or Long Acres nearby - give yourself two to three hours for a decent section rather than trying to do the whole thing in one go. You can pick it up at various points along its length, so there's no need to commit to the full distance. The route passes through Rowfant and Worth, both tiny villages with pubs if you fancy a break halfway.

Historically minded types will appreciate the railway heritage, though there's not much interpretation on the ground. Families with younger kids might get restless on the flatter sections unless you make it a treasure hunt or bring a bike. Early morning on a weekday is when it properly shines - you'll practically have it to yourself. Worth the detour if you're in the area, but it's not a destination in itself.