Surrey Countryside

Due to the uncertain nature of the coronavirus developments, we recommend you stay local and observe social distancing measures. For guidance please visit our COVID-19 webpage.  

Message from Surrey County Council
Coronavirus: countryside car parks closed

In light of the coronavirus and the critical need to prevent the spread of the virus, all our countryside car parks will be closed from Tuesday 24 March to support social distancing.

We will be monitoring the situation and UK Government advice and guidance, and will reopen the car parks as soon as we are able.

If you’re looking for variety, Surrey’s countryside has it all – rolling chalk downs, rich grasslands and a mosaic of woodland, rivers and heath.

Revitalise your senses by exploring what our countryside has to offer. Wherever you are in Surrey, there's a green space near you.  Take the opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy the outdoors and spend time exploring Surrey with family and friends.

‘Leafy Surrey’, as we’re known, is England's most wooded county, with woodland covering over a fifth of the county.   A quarter of these woods are recorded as ancient woodland, areas rich in wildlife that have been part of the landscape for centuries.  Surrey's desirability as a place to live, work and visit is closely linked to its pleasant rural environment.

Broadly across the middle of the county, the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a specially protected landscape.  This patchwork of beautiful countryside stretches from Farnham in the west above Guildford, Dorking and Reigate, through to Oxted in the east, making it easily accessible by train, car or public transport.   As well as boasting the highest point in south east England – where the Greensand Hills rise to form Leith Hill – the area prides itself on offering extensive walking routes and cycle trails, open commons, breathtaking views and picture postcard market towns and villages to explore.  

To discover the local countryside, enjoy The Downs Link which follows the route of a disused railway line and is enjoyed by walkers, cyclists and horse riders. West Sussex County Council, Surrey County Council and Waverley Borough Council manage this long distance, mainly off-road route.

Take a look at the Downs Link 6 Stage Route Guide

All in all, Surrey’s countryside is a gem of a place to visit and you can find all the information you need at Explore Surrey.