Redhill

Train commuters race through this Surrey junction without a second glance, but Redhill's got more going for it than just railway connections. The town sits at the foot of the North Downs, making it a proper gateway to some of Surrey's best countryside.

Kingswood station puts you right in the thick of things, while the nearby Roman tile kiln offers a glimpse into the area's ancient past. The Fire Brigades of Surrey museum tells the county's emergency services story - though it's hardly Redhill's main draw.

What really matters here is the location. You're a stone's throw from the Surrey Hills, with Jubilee Plantation offering decent walks when you need to escape the suburban sprawl. The George V Jubilee viewpoint gives you a proper look across the Weald - well worth the climb.

Getting here couldn't be easier. The M25 runs close by, and trains from London Bridge take about 40 minutes. Redhill might not win any beauty contests, but it's brilliantly placed for exploring Surrey's countryside without the premium prices of towns like Guildford.

Staying at one of the nearby parks makes perfect sense. You'll dodge the town's limited hotel options while getting quick access to both London and the Surrey Hills. Norbury Park and Surrey Hills Park put you right in walking country, while Chessington World of Adventures Resort offers family thrills just down the road. The surrounding downs are laced with bridleways and footpaths - ideal for proper countryside exploration without the trek to more remote areas.