Best Rural Staycation Spots Near London

The Surrey Hills are home to some of the UK’s most scenic and accessible countryside with walking routes that can be explored on foot, on a bike, and on horseback.

A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, there are footpaths, byways and bridleways galore - all of which twist and turn their way through a marvellous array of varied landscapes. You can explore rolling chalk downs, ancient box woodland, and idyllic grasslands covered in pretty flowers. Add to this the open commons, sunken lanes, and delightful picnic sites, and you’ve got an outdoor lover’s dream.

Where should you go?

The area is home to some of the UK’s most famous beauty spots, including the Devil’s Punch Bowl, Leith Hill, and Box Hill. However, there are some lesser known areas that are equally inspiring such as Frensham Ponds, the Inglis Memorial, and Newlands Corner - which we feel offers one of the best views of the Surrey Hills.

Where should you stay?

Some of our favourite Coolstays hidden among the Surrey Hills.

It was Virginia Wolf who said of the Downs - “Too much for one pair of eyes, enough to float a whole population in happiness, if only they would look.” And we second that!

Quaint villages, rolling hills, and wind-swept, dramatic coastlines, ensure that the South Downs National Park offers a welcome reminder of just how varied and striking the UK’s countryside can be.

Avid ramblers and dedicated country-pub-dwellers will enjoy the walking routes that take you from one twee hamlet pub to the next. This means you can explore this scenic part of the UK whilst enjoying locally brewed ales, and delicious food.

Where should you go?

Visitors must explore the South Downs Way, which was the first bridleway National Trail in England. This 160km walking trail is beautiful, diverse, and almost entirely off-road!

Head to Devil’s Dyke and witness the view that painter John Constable considered “the grandest in the world”. And make sure you take a trip to see the world famous rippling chalky cliffs of the Seven Sisters in all their glory.

Where should you stay?

An undiscovered Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Chiltern Hills is home to some quintessentially British countryside that has been shaped by industry and agriculture over the years.

With historic market towns, hidden villages, cracking pubs, and miles of ancient farmland, this part of Britain really is a true rural gem just waiting to be explored!

Where should you go?

First up, you must visit Coombe Hill. This is the highest viewpoint in the Chilterns, meaning you can take in breathtaking views of your surroundings from 260 metres above sea level. We’d also encourage you to go for a wander along the Chess Valley, which follows the scenic River Chess as it cuts its way through the countryside.

Other fab spots include Wendover Woods, Marlow Common, and Hartslock Nature Reserve.

Where should you stay?

Yet another Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Kent Downs has some of the most outstanding viewpoints in the South of England. Easily accessed via train, this area is filled with walking routes that meander their way through quaint villages, crooked woodlands and vast open fields.

Lovers of inspiring views will be spoiled for choice as the Kent Downs is home to sprawling scenes that stretch as far as the eye can see!

Where should you go?

Often described as Kent’s top beauty spot, the Devil’s Kneading Trough is a bowl-shaped valley that sits at the heart of the Downs and makes an ideal location for a picnic with a view.

For yet another awe-inspiring view, visit Lympne. This iconic viewpoint allows you to marvel at the East Kent coastline as it curves away, whilst taking in the Romney Marsh and beyond. You might even spot France on a clear day!

Other fab places to explore include Queendown Warren, which is a real orchid lovers’ dream; Hucking Estate, which is home to a pretty bluebell wood; and the small, picturesque village of Chevening.

Where should you stay?