10 of the best hidden gems in Surrey

Take the road less travelled for a day in Surrey. Head off the beaten track and discover scenic walks and historical landmarks, usually without the crowds.

Here are just a few of the places that will help to inspire you to discover more about Surrey:

1. Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden - near Dorking
   Postcode: GU5 5QU
   Open April until late October and well off the beaten track, you will find the magical Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden near Ockley, south of Dorking. Take a peaceful trail and discover some amazing art.
2. Watts Chapel - near Compton
   Postcode: GU3 1DN
   This amazing ornate handmade chapel is best seen as part of a visit to Watts Gallery - Artists' Village. Be sure to discover for yourself the delights of this wonderful arts and craft cemetery chapel. 
3. The Union Workhouse (The Spike) - near Guildford
   Postcode: GU1 3JH
   A visit to The Spike will give you a vivid description of the reasons for the creation of workhouses and life for the poor unfortunates inside them. Experience for yourself the original waiting room, bathing, sleeping and working accommodation that the inmates endured.
4. Gibbet Hill - near Hindhead
   Postcode: GU27 1DG
   At 892 feet, Gibbet Hill is the second highest hill in Surrey after Leith Hill. It's part of Hindhead Common and the Devil's Punch Bowl. The scenery is breath-taking and the walks endless - on a clear day it is possible to see London’s skyline. 
5. Ramster Gardens - near Chiddingfold
   Postcode: GU8 4SN
   The beautiful tranquil Ramster Garden is only open in the spring/early summer and for a short period in the autumn. If you're a fan of the "secret garden" you'll love Ramster!
6. Chilworth Gunpowder Mill - near Guildford
   Postcode: GU4 8RD
   See the remains and learn more about this historic site on foot by taking a self-guided tour. It's just outside the village of Chilworth and you can walk up to St Martha on the Hill church should the urge hit - and the views from the North Downs Way are well worth it.
7. Brookwood Cemetery - near Woking
   Postcode: GU24 0BL
   Steeped in history and beautifully maintained, Brookwood Cemetery is the largest cemetery in Britain. Take time to look at the war graves where you can reflect on all generations of lost servicemen and women from the Great War to the modern day.
8. Waverley Abbey - near Farnham
   Postcode: GU9 0JA
   There seems to be something rather magical about the ruins at Waverley Abbey. There is plenty of signage around the site which explains the history. By the time you have circled the site, you will leave with a great appreciation for this historical site and the magical beauty that remains.
9. Silent Pool- near Guildford
   Postcode: GU4 8RB
   Nestled just below Newlands Corner off the A25, four miles east of Guildford, the spring fed Silent Pool has links with ghostly legends. Take a walk around the pool (strictly no swimming!) and enjoy the tranquillity. Whilst in the area, why not pop next door to the beautiful Albury Organic Vineyard.
10. The Deepdene Trail - near Dorking
    Visitors are able to enjoy free access to one of the country’s most historically significant gardens at The Deepdene Trail. Uncover the many fascinating stories and grand physical features of the Deepdene Estate, and then head off to Denbies Wine Estate to indulge in a glass of award-winning English sparkling wine.