The Best Things To Do In Surrey UK

This classic English county on the capital’s doorstep is ripe with summer-ready lidos and wildlife-loved lakes.

Head southwest of London, and you’ll find yourself in the charming county of Surrey. Here, dotted around the countryside, are picturesque villages, English sparkling vineyards, historic towns and fascinating day-trip locations. With everything from classic castles and wetland centres to Guildford galleries and motoring museums, there’s plenty to keep you coming back.

1. Take to the water at Hawley Lake

Park, Sports Center

White Mountain Apache Reservation AZ / SEPT Early morning in late summer at Hawley Lake. Conifer frames a scene looking toward a point .

If you’re looking for a chance to get out on the waves without heading to the coast, Hawley Lake is a fantastic alternative. A great watersports spot for both novices and experts, the lake is largely used as a training facility for anyone looking to try their hand at sailing, windsurfing and powerboating. Known for its youth programmes as well as adult classes, the lake allows everyone to try their hand at splashing around, with certified pros on standby to offer guidance and tuition.

2. School-up at the WWF Living Planet Centre

Building

This hub of conservation, sustainability and environmental activities is run by the World Wildlife Fund. With a mission to educate its visitors on the works of the WWF and what everyone can do to help some of the world’s most endangered species, the Living Planet Centre makes for a fascinating day out. Open to the public, it’s located in the heart of Woking and offers a range of tours, workshops and talks, with special events, such as food festivals, planned over the school holidays.

4. Browse the Watts Gallery and its Artists' Village

Art Gallery, Museum

Limnerslease, the Watts house and studios at Watts Gallery Artists Village in Compton, Surrey, UK

Showcasing the life and works of local Victorian artist, George Watts, this Grade II-listed building is an excellent opportunity to master some of the area’s cultural history. Home to over a hundred works by the artist, the gallery grounds also feature the picturesque Watt Chapel, beautiful woodlands and a living exhibition showcasing the artist’s studios as they once would have been. There is also a charming tea shop, perfect for a cuppa between exhibitions.

5. Splash out at Guildford Lido

Park, Swimming Pool

Guildford Lido, a purpose-built 1930s Olympic-sized outdoor swimming pool, is one of the true treasures of this Surrey county town – surrounded by over 4 acres (1.6ha) of land, including carefully crafted gardens, paddling pools for younger ones and even a miniature golf course. Only open from April to September, it’s a surefire summer hit, especially refreshing on a hot day, with waters warmed to a balmy 24 degrees, and ad-hoc events held – from outdoor concerts to pool parties and barbecues.

6. Take to the turrets of Guildford Castle

Historical Landmark, Ruins

Built nearly a thousand years ago, around the time of William the Conqueror, Guildford Castle is a fantastic reminder of Surrey’s rich history. On top of interesting exhibits and panels showcasing the castle’s history, there is also a viewing platform to take in amazing views of surrounding Guildford. Tickets are reasonably priced, and the castle gardens are well worth a visit, too.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.