If you are looking for the best things to do in Surrey, check out my top picks below. Why should you listen to me? Because I lived in Surrey for 5 years and I explored a lot of hidden places in this area.

This historic region has the highest percentage of forests in England. Moreover, it is home to many unique attractions not far from London. The county of Surrey is one of the most beautiful in Southern England. It is also the richest and poshest place to visit in the UK.

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Things to do in Surrey - Find the best hidden gem 

1. Painshill Park

Painshill Park Car Park Adress: Anvil Ln, Cobham KT11

This award-winning 18th-century Park is one of the most beautiful examples of English landscapes. Visitors can follow the historic path that will take them to the Gothic Temple, Turkish tent, or Crystal Grotto.

Every step will reveal a breathtaking view of the Grade I Listed landscape garden. Awe-inspiring panoramas of the hills, temples, ruins, and bridges over the serpentine lake are a feast for the eyes.

This picturesque park is a great place to spend a day out in Surrey.  Whether it is a family picnic or a romantic walk, Painshill Park will not disappoint you. 

You can also take a dog with you, although it needs to be on a short lead. 

Crystal Grotto in Painshill Park

The Crystal Grotto is one of the best-hidden gems in Surrey. This man-made cave with beautiful stalactites and corals is such a unique attraction in England. 

The best time to visit Crystal Grotto is around midday when the sun is the strongest. It will penetrate through the cave and make all the crystals shine. In my opinion, it is one of the most beautiful places to see in Surrey.

Check out luxurious apartment just a few minute's walk from Painshill Park.

Things to do in Surrey – Visit Guildford

2. Guildford Cathedral

Guildford Cathedral Car Park Postcode: GU2 7JQ

This beautiful Anglican cathedral in Guildford is also known as the Cathedral Church of the Holy Spirit. The red brick and tower of the cathedral (48.8 m tall) may be seen from distance in many parts of Guildford. Whether you are visiting Guildford Castle or driving around the town, you cannot miss this attraction.

Stag Hill is home to both Guildford Cathedral and the University of Surrey. Getting to the church requires a bit of walking up the hill if you are traveling by bus or walking from the town. The cathedral is only 15 minutes walk from the train station in Guildford.

If you are living in London, catch the train to Guildford from Waterloo Station. In less than 40 minutes, you will find yourself in the beautiful historic town of Guildford.

Constructions works of Guildford Cathedral

Guildford Cathedral was built between 1936 and 1961. There was a maximum budget of £250,000 to build the cathedral. However, construction works had to be put on hold during the Second World War. 

When the Second World War ended, only a tiny amount of the original budget remained to construct the cathedral. The “Buy-a-Brick” campaign raised money from at least 200,000 people who paid £6 between 1952 and 1961 to help complete works on Guildford Cathedral. Who would not want to sign their name on one of the bricks in the church?

Well, not only ordinary people but also Royal Family put their signatures on the red bricks. For instance, Elizabeth II and Prince Philip were some of the most important people who signed them. Nowadays, you can find those bricks with their names in one of the displays in the church.

If you pay a bit of attention to the facade of the building, you will notice a slight difference in the color of the bricks. Before the Second World War, only local bricks were used. Due to the discontinuity of the brick trade at Stag Hill after the war, the works of the cathedral were completed with bricks from Sussex.

Guildford Cathedral architectural features

The high tower of Guildford Cathedral has twelve bells with the largest of weight over 1.5 tonnes. Moreover, on the top of the tower, there is an impressive gilded angel with a height of 4.6 m which rotates when it is windy.

The cathedral with Somerset limestone columns and white Italian marble floors gives an impression of a very light interior. Although Guildford Cathedral has not got many stained glass windows, it is a very bright and beautiful place to visit in Surrey.

This Grade II listed building has impressive interior decor with blue accents which refer to Guildford’s wool. It was the color that the city was famous for during the wool trade in the past.

There are also many incredible sculptures in Guildford Cathedral. For instance, a piece of art showing a mother and child during the Second World War or a figure of the Madonna with a child.

3. Guildford Castle

York Road Car Park (13 minutes walk to Guildford castle): GU1 4DS

Guildford is one of the best towns to visit in Surrey and the castle grounds are a must-see attraction. There is a large number of flowers that make this place look so beautiful.

This royal residence was never attacked and there was no need to defend it. As result, it was neglected and royal apartments were destroyed. However, the remaining ruins are still beautiful to explore for current visitors.

When visiting Guildford Castle try to avoid lunchtime as it can get really busy. Only a few minutes walk from High Street, makes it a popular choice for a lunch break in beautiful surroundings. 

When I worked in Guildford, I used to walk windy paths to find a quiet spot in this lovely location. There are several benches, although some people just relax on the grass. My favorite area is at the top of the hill where you can admire vast views of Guildford.

Check out one of the best hotels in Guildford - Guildford Harbour Hotel & Spa

Nearby Guildford Castle there is an amazing restaurant –The Thai Terrace. It offers excellent Thai food and incredible views of the town from the restaurant’s terrace. It is a romantic place to visit in Guildford.

4. Tea Terrace in Guildford

York Road Car Park (10 minutes walk to Tea Terrace): GU1 4DS

If you are looking for another hidden spot with panoramic views of Guildford, visit Tea Terrace. The owners of this place created an amazing tea room where you can enjoy traditional English tea in a gold carriage like a princess.

It is also a fantastic restaurant with affordable food prices. Tea Terrace was the first place in the UK where you could try “Selfieccino” ( cappuccino with your selfie). However, when we visited both, Tea Terrace in Guildford and London, the machine didn’t work. 

Tea Terrace always thinks out of the box and their new feature is Theresa the Robotic Waitress. However, it will serve you only in Cobham which is just 17 minutes drive from Guildford.

My other restaurant recommendations in Guildford are Turtle Bay Guildford with Caribbean food or Tortilla Guildford. This historic town has many Spanish, Italian, Greek, and Asian restaurants that cannot be missed during your visit.

Things to do in Surrey – Drive Fast Cars

5. Mercedes-Benz World

Mercedes-Benz World Postcode: KT13 0SL

The Mercedes-Benz World offers amazing driving experiences. If you are tall enough to reach the pedals (at least 1.5 m), you can drive super fast cars in Surrey.

Stay at Brooklands Hotel & Spa next to Mercedes-Benz World

Are you looking for a birthday gift for your partner or a fantastic day out with coworkers? This is one of the best places to visit in Southern England.

If you don’t like adrenaline, you can admire beautiful car displays in the Mercedes-Benz World museum. The suspended Formula 1 is one of the most unique car exhibits I have ever seen.

All car elements are hung on thin wires and reveal the masterpiece of this fast car. In the Mercedes-Benz World museum, there are also see some older vehicles that any car enthusiast will fall in love with.

Things to do in Surrey – Enjoy Free Attractions

6. Brookwood Cemetery

Brookwood Station Multistory Car Park post code: GU24 0ER

Why should you visit Brookwood cemetery?

If you are wondering why I put a cemetery as one of the top attractions in Surrey, let me explain it. This is not just a graveyard, but also a stunning Grade I listed Historic Park.

It is the biggest cemetery in the UK which spans 220 acres. Brookwood cemetery is also one of the largest in Europe with many notable people that have been buried there.

Who is buried at Brookwood cemetery?

If you are an architecture lover, like me, I can tell you that in Brookwood, there is a grave of Zaha Hadid. She was the most famous female architect in the world!

Also, the graves of those who died during the First World War and Second World War including Polish, French, Americans, and many others. There are over 235,000 people buried in Brookwood cemetery.

What can you see at Brookwood cemetery?

Many of us are unaware of such a location as Brookwood which is worth visiting not only due to its history, but also the tranquillity it offers in a busy world.

Brookwood cemetery is located in a dense forest where you can admire impressive huge trees. The whole area is enormous so you will rarely see any other visitors.

Do you want to take beautiful photos during a day trip to Surrey? Check out the review of the Best Backpacking Cameras

With so much space to explore, you will always find there something new, which makes Brookwood a great place to come back for a walk again.

The cemetery is well maintained and there are so many different sections to explore. From equally spaced rows with minimalistic white graves to angel gravestones or big crosses on grass. 

However, my biggest attention has caught kids’ graves. Some of them are decorated with colorful stones, while others are covered with tree cones. I have visited many cemeteries, but this is the most beautiful and unique I have ever seen. 

7. Canal walks

If you are asking yourself what are the best things to do in Surrey this weekend, there is no better answer than a canal walk. Two rivers, Wey and Thames are perfect for long walks, running or cycling through this beautiful countryside.

In addition, there are a lot of pubs by the river which offer excellent views. One of the best riverside pubs in Surrey is the Weyside in Guildford.

If you love running, the Saturn Trail is a perfect place to run for many miles. There is WWF Living Planet Centre just by the river in Woking and Jubilee Square a few minutes away. The Peacocks Centre is one of the best shopping malls in Surrey so don’t hesitate to buy something there for yourself.

Saturn trail is 15km route where you can see colorful house boats and beautiful forest. It starts in Brookwood, just 10 minutes walk from train station and continues up to Byfleet.

8. Newark Priory

Newark Lane Car Park (free parking): GU23 6DP

It is a shame that such interesting ruins are not available for visitors. However, you can still take beautiful photos of them from a distance. Newark Priory is a Grade I listed building located by the river Way and Abbey Stream.

There is a free Newark Lane Car Park just by the river Way which is a perfect place to explore during summer. The ruins from 12-th century were dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Thomas a Beckett.

Things to do in Surrey – Admire Colourful Plants

9. Virginia Water, Windsor Great Park

Virginia Water Car Park Postcode: GU25 4QF

Virginia Water is the most beautiful place to visit in Surrey. Especially during spring when rhododendrons start to bloom. However, any time of the year is great to go for a walk or run in this amazing park.

Ancient monuments, waterfall and picturesque views offer a great day out in Surrey. Virginia Water circular walk takes almost 2 hours to complete. However, you can always do a shorter hike as there are so many paths to choose from.

The best places to see in Virginia Water

During your visit to Virginia Water, make sure to explore the Totem Pole. This 100 feet high (30 meters) monument from 1958 was built to honor 100th anniversary of British Columbia as a Crown Colony. 

The colorful Totem Pole represents carvings of Sea Otter, Cedar Man, or Sisiutl – a mythical creature.  Unique elements of native Indian art always fascinate kids that are visiting Virginia Water.

If you follow Canadian Avenue, you will get to Azalea Valley. It is the most beautiful part of Virginia Water. Azalea Valley is the perfect spot for a picnic with your family and dog. The green valley surrounded by pink flowers will take your breath away.

Another interesting place in Virginia Water are ruins of Leptis Magna. The granite and marble columns that we can see today were a gift from Libya. It is amazing that a small part of the Roman city Leptis Magna can be found in England.

If there are not many waterfalls nearby, why don’t you build your own? The Cascade in Virginia Water was created in the 1750s. This 10-meter waterfall is the perfect place for landscape photography not far from the Virginia Water Car Park.

10. RHS Wisley Garden Centre

RHS Wisley Garden – car park 1 post code: GU23 6QB

In RHS Wisley Garden Centre you will find many uncommon and exotic plants. However, there are many other reasons to visit this place. Whether you want to unwind in the lovely surrounding, get some inspiration for your garden or admire the most famous flower shows in the world, look no further than Wisley Garden.

The first flower show debuted on May 20th, 1913. However, when the First World War started a lot of things changed and the show was canceled. The Chelsea exhibition made a triumphant return in 1947 after Second World War.

You will not find such a commitment to keep the fame of the country horticulture anywhere on the planet. The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is the most prestigious flower exhibition in the world where you can see jaw-dropping horticulture art of outstanding exhibitors.

Cutting-edge projects made from nature will take your breath away. If you want, you can also take part in RHS Horticultural Competitions which are free to enter.

11. Bluebells walk

If there are bluebells in England, it means there are ancient woodlands. Almost 25% of Surrey is covered in woods. This is the most forested county in England, so you will not find a better place to see bluebells than Surrey.

Take the opportunity and visit the most beautiful woodlands of Surrey in April. You can choose one of the places below:

Winkworth Arboretum near Godalming 
Chinthurst Hill near Guildford
Painshill Park, Cobham
Sheepleas, West Horsley
Little Wix Wood, Hatchlands Park near Guildford
Cucknells Wood, Shamley Green
Wallis Wood near Cranleigh

Bluebells usually start to bloom in late March. You will have time until early May to see those beautiful carpets of flowers in Surrey. 

Things to do in Surrey – Climb the Hills

12. Leith Hill Tower

Starveall Corner Car Park, Leith Hill (free parking postcode): RH5 6LU

One of the highest points of South East England is visible from surrounding rural areas in Surrey. This 18th-century Gothic located 294 m above sea level, attracts many visitors that want to enjoy the beautiful English landscape.

You might be even able to glimpse the London Eye if you climb the stairs at Leith Hill Tower. 74 spiral stairs will reward you with magnificent views of Surrey and beyond.

The Leith Hill Tower has a height of 19.5 m and some people say that on a clear day, 13 counties are visible from the top of the building. 

You can start your walk from Holmwood train station or drive to one of the nearby car parks such as Leith Hill Rhododendron Wood car park or Starveall Corner Car Park.

Leith Hill is 33,6 miles (54 km) from London or 12,1 miles (19,4 km) from Guildford. This woodland walk near the town of Dorking is one of the attractions that you should not miss in Surrey.

13. Box Hill, Tadworth

Box hill car park post code: KT20 7LB

The Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty provide some of the most picturesque landscapes in south-east England. Whether is Laith Hill or Box Hill, both of them are famous for scenic walks with breathtaking views.

Box Hill is located by River Mole, less than a 10-minute drive from Dorking. It is a popular destination for cyclists due to its Zig Zag Road, impressive terrain gradient, and nearby distance from London.

 Always carry an Eco-friendly Water Bottle

Although it is a difficult climb, it is doable with an average fitness level. At the bottom of the hill, you can enjoy Stepping Stones Walk which is the kid’s favorite area to cross the River Mole.

Boxhill Viewpoint is a popular spot for a picnic with vast views of the Surrey landscape. The hill of 224 m high offers a great day out just a 1-hour drive from South London.

Things to do in Surrey – Start running!

14. Woking

It is very easy to get from London to Woking by train in less than 30 minutes. This town is known not only for the McLaren Technology Centre, but also Surrey Half Marathon.

The biggest running event in Surrey is one of the best in the country. When I took part in Surrey Half Marathon a few years ago I even saw “Tony the Fridge”, a famous guy who is running with a fridge strapped to his back to raise money for charity.

This event is indescribable. All the supporters, including little kids standing on the route with boxes full of Haribo to give you more energy for running, will make tears in your eyes.

Completing a half marathon is an unforgettable experience, however, preparation requires a lot of effort. If you want to start running, there are a lot of excellent routes in Woking to improve your fitness level.

Where can you go for a run in Woking?

Beginner: There are various routes at Woking Leisure Centre which are perfect for beginners. The circular run is about 800m, which you can repeat as many times as you want. Every Saturday, you can also join the Woking park run to test yourself during a 5k run in Woking park.