Tadworth

Epsom Downs Racecourse sits on the doorstep, and the rolling Surrey Hills stretch beyond - this is commuter belt countryside with serious walking credentials. Tadworth occupies that sweet spot between London accessibility and proper downland walking territory.

Colley Hill and Buckland Hill offer cracking views across the Weald, while The Mound provides a decent viewpoint without the steep climb. The downland here feels surprisingly wild for somewhere so close to the M25. Reigate Fort, tucked away on Reigate Hill, tells stories of Victorian paranoia about French invasion - fascinating stuff if you're into military archaeology.

Train connections are spot-on from Tadworth station, making day trips to London perfectly doable. But honestly, you'll want to stay put and explore the hills. The network of bridleways and footpaths linking Colley Hill to Reigate Hill creates brilliant circular walks. View Point lives up to its name on clear days - you can see right across to the North Downs.

Epsom town centre sits a couple of miles north, handy for proper shops and restaurants. The racecourse draws crowds during Derby week, but most of the year it's refreshingly quiet. Tattenham Corner station serves the southern edge if you're exploring by rail.

Basing yourself at one of the local parks makes perfect sense here. Surrey Hills Park and the various camping options around Norbury Park put you right in the heart of walking country. You're close enough to nip into Epsom or even London, but far enough out to wake up to proper countryside views. The Surrey Hills National Landscape designation isn't just tourist board nonsense - this really is special walking territory that deserves more than a day trip.