Where to hire a car in Surrey
- Guildford – set in the heart of the county, this town is home to Guildford Castle (GU1 3UW), Loseley Park (GU3 1HS) and Newlands Corner (GU4 8SE) – where you’ll find some of the best views in Surrey.
- Gatwick Airport – on the south-east boundary of Surrey, Gatwick is close to the Surrey Hills AONB and the M23, which heads north into London and south towards Brighton.
- Heathrow Airport – on the north-west boundary of Surrey, the country’s busiest airport is just 15 minutes from Thorpe Park (KT16 8PN) and situated close to Windsor Castle (SL4 1NJ).
Best things to see and do in Surrey
Box Hill
Box Hill Trail, Tadworth KT20 7LB
Pull on your walking boots and head for Box Hill on the North Downs, a place which gets its name from the box woodland on the chalk slopes. Follow one of the walking trails to reach the summit in about four hours. It’ll be well worth it for the spectacular views when you ascend to the top.
Thorpe Park
Staines Road, Chertsey, KT16 8PN
Thrill seekers won’t want to miss one of the UK’s top theme parks, which has more than 30 rides and attractions for the whole family. For the bravest among you, take a white-knuckle ride on Stealth, the fastest rollercoaster in the country. It reaches speeds of 80mph in just 2.5 seconds and hurtles 205ft in the air.
Kew Gardens
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Kew, Richmond, TW9 3ABX
Visit this oasis of calm on the outskirts of the capital, to wander along the treetop walkway which loops through some of the garden’s 14,000 trees 59ft above ground. There’s also the Palm House, an indoor rainforest, and you won’t want to miss the Great Pagoda, the Hive or the Japanese Gardens.
Best places to stay in Surrey
The Merry Harriers Inn & Shepherds Huts
Hambledon Road, Hambledon, GU8 4DR
You can stay in a room at this 16th century village inn, but you might prefer the shepherds’ huts located within the grounds. Opt for the adventurous choice and you’ll stay alongside a herd of 12 llamas in the picturesque Surrey Hills AONB. It’s just a few steps away from the pub, where breakfast is included.
Surrey Hills Yurts
Mad Horse Copse, Logmore Lane, Westcott, RH4 3GB
These luxury, eco-friendly yurts are situated in the Surrey Hills, on a 15-acre farm. The unique accommodation benefits from a peaceful countryside location and a provides variety of activities. Try everything from yoga and guided walks, to archery and open-fire cooking lessons.
Springbok Farm Estate Campsite
Springbok Farm Estate, Alfold, GU6 8EX
You’ll find these cosy bell tents situated between Sussex Weald and the Surrey Hills AONB. They come with a comfortable bed for you to sink into after a day exploring and are decorated with lanterns, bunting and flowers. A breakfast pack is provided for your first morning and there is a firepit for you to light after the sun sets on you countryside retreat.