Attractions and Places To See in Surrey - Top 20

Surrey offers several stunning natural viewpoints. Leith Hill Tower and Viewpoint, the highest point in southeast England, provides sweeping views that can reach the English Channel and Big Ben on a clear day. Holmbury Hill Viewpoint offers spellbinding vistas over the Surrey Hills, including Leith Hill. Additionally, the Box Hill Climb is famous for its views over the Surrey Hills and Weald.

Yes, Surrey is rich in history. You can explore the magnificent Tudor Hampton Court Palace, once home to Henry VIII, with its Great Hall, Tudor kitchens, and famous maze. Runnymede is historically significant as the site where the Magna Carta was sealed. St Martha's Church, a Grade II-listed church perched on a hill, retains many original 12th-century architectural features and offers tranquil views.

The Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a haven for outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking, cycling, and horse riding on numerous trails. Iconic sites like Box Hill and Leith Hill offer excellent opportunities for exploration. For specific routes, consider the Road Cycling Routes in Surrey or Running Trails in Surrey, which include options around Box Hill and Leith Hill.

Absolutely. For thrill-seekers, Thorpe Park offers exciting rides and attractions. The Leith Hill Tower and Viewpoint is family-friendly, with a small cafe and an exhibition room. Many of Surrey's natural areas, like Box Hill and Holmbury Hill, are suitable for family walks, and Peaslake Village offers facilities like cafes and pubs.

Surrey boasts several unique cultural sites. The Watts Gallery – Artists' Village provides insight into the lives and work of artist George Frederic Watts and designer Mary Watts. Brooklands Museum is the birthplace of British motorsport and aviation, showcasing a rich history of speed and innovation, including Concorde. You can also visit RHS Garden Wisley, the flagship garden of the Royal Horticultural Society, known for its impressive variety of trees and wildflowers.

Surrey is excellent for walking. The North Downs Way offers extensive trails across the chalk hills. Popular spots include Box Hill, Leith Hill, and Newlands Corner. For specific routes, explore the Running Trails in Surrey guide, which features routes like the Box Hill, Mickleham Downs & Denbies Vineyard loop.

Yes, many attractions and walking routes have nearby options. Leith Hill Tower and Viewpoint has a cafe at its base on specific days. Peaslake Village is a popular stop with cafes and pubs. Surrey also has a growing wine tourism scene, with places like Denbies Wine Estate offering tours and tastings, and the Silent Pool Distillery for craft gin.

Surrey is a popular destination for mountain biking, especially within the Surrey Hills. Swinley Forest offers dedicated trails, and areas around Holmbury Hill are well-known for their routes. You can find detailed options in the MTB Trails in Surrey guide, including routes like the Telegraph Hill & St Martha's Hill loop.

Surrey's natural attractions are beautiful year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring brings wildflowers and blooming gardens, while summer is ideal for long walks and outdoor activities. Autumn showcases vibrant foliage, particularly in areas like Winkworth Arboretum and the Surrey Hills. Winter offers crisp views, and some cafes remain open for warmth.

Beyond the hills, Surrey has unique natural features. Painshill Park is an 18th-century landscape garden with a Crystal Grotto and Chinese Bridge. The Devil's Punch Bowl is a large natural amphitheatre perfect for woodland walks. Thursley Common is one of Surrey's largest heathland areas, home to diverse wildlife, including many species of dragonflies. You can also visit the serene Silent Pool, which is also home to a craft gin distillery.

Many of Surrey's beauty spots, particularly within the Surrey Hills, can be accessed via public transport, though some may require a combination of train and bus, or a longer walk from the nearest station. Key towns like Dorking and Guildford serve as hubs for reaching areas like Box Hill and Leith Hill. It's advisable to check local bus schedules and train connections for specific destinations.

Yes, Surrey features several historic castles and estates. Guildford Castle, thought to have been built after William the Conqueror's invasion, offers insights into medieval history and panoramic town views. Polesden Lacey is an Edwardian house and estate known for its opulent interiors and gardens with extensive views of the Surrey Hills.