A rural retreat: The 5 best places to visit in Surrey

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Plymouth for a couple of days or more, you should look no further than Surrey, which takes only a few hours to reach by car from the city.

It is now one of the most sought-after counties to both visit and live in the UK, as it features many picturesque market towns, which each have their own distinctive personalities, history and charm.

Whether you are looking for countryside views, regal estates, or intriguing history, the rural county has it all.

If you are in need of some inspiration for your next break away, here are the five best places to visit in Surrey.

1. Dorking

Expect to fall in love with the stunning market town of Dorking, which is located in the Surrey Hills.

Few destinations in the UK offer such a beautiful backdrop, as the hills are covered with a yew forest, while wildflowers bloom every summer.

You also should make your way up to Box Hill, which offers breathtaking, unencumbered views of the North Downs and scenic walking trails.

2. Farnham

If you’re looking for glorious views, an interesting history, and beautiful architecture, ensure you pay a visit to Farnham, which is a 12th-century market town.

You can take a stroll down picturesque Castle Street, which is filled with stunning Georgian houses.

Don’t forget to enjoy a free tour of Farnham Castle, either, which was founded in 1138 and continues to serve as the seat for the archbishops of Winchester.

3. Weybridge

Weybridge is the perfect destination for those wanting to enjoy Surrey’s stunning countryside and London’s many attractions, as it’s a short distance away from the bustling English capital.

When you’re not enjoying the period character of the town’s many Georgian and Victorian properties, you can enjoy the thrill of Brookland’s Racing Circuit, which was the first track in the world built specifically for car racing.

IPA lovers would also be wise to drop into The Flintgate pub (Theflintgate.co.uk), which is well-regarded for serving one-off brews and punchy IPAs, which are sourced from small-batch producers across the UK.

4. Guildford

If historical buildings, cobbled streets and beautiful country estates sound like the perfect weekend break for you, make your way to Guildford.

One destination you will not want to miss is Angel Inn on the High Street, which features its original signage from the 1300s and continues to serve as a hotel.

Offering beautiful landscape gardens, relaxing cycling trails, and tranquil woodlands, it’s an ideal destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of a big city.

5. Godalming

You’ll take a step back in time when visiting Godalming, which offers original Tudor timber-framed houses at the market square.

It is also home to Godalming Museum, which will provide an insight into the market town’s extensive history.

For example, you can learn more about Jack Phillips, the Senior Wireless Operator aboard RMS Titanic, who risked his life to send Morse code messages to nearby ships when the ill-fated liner collided into an iceberg in 1912.

You also should pay a visit to Loseley Park, which regularly serves delicious afternoon tea and offers a guided tour of the historic house and grounds.