5 Surprising things about Riddlesdown Common

Riddlesdown Common is one of South London’s hidden gems. This circular walk, starting from the Riddlesdown Common car park and heading towards Whyteleafe Recreation Ground, combines history, nature and some surprisingly dramatic scenery. Here are five highlights to look out for along the way. 1. The Roman Road One of the most fascinating aspects of […]

The most intact fighter airfield from WW2

If you’re looking for a short, scenic walk steeped in history, the 2-mile circular trail around RAF Kenley Airfield is a perfect choice. Located near Coulsdon on the border of Surrey in south London, this former World War II fighter station played a key role during the Battle of Britain. Walking the perimeter path, you’ll […]

The Museum of The Mind and 200 Acres of Parkland at Bethlem Hospital

*Walks* This is one of the most intriguing museums, and it’s less than 30 minutes drive from Carshalton. The small museum looks back at the treatment of mental health and covers the long history of Bethlem hospital. It’s set in beautiful parkland that you’re free to explore. At the entrance to the museum, shown above, […]

See Britain’s smallest working windmill just 25 minutes from Carshalton

*Local Walks* This incredible oddity is the only remaining wind-powered sawmill in the UK – and it’s just 25 minutes from Carshalton. An unusually small windmill, built around 1860, there were only ever around 15 – 20 recorded across Britain. This interesting feature is situated in the back garden of a house in Buckland village. […]

The Stunning Watermill Pub and a Wander Around Denbies Vineyard in Dorking

*lazy wknds* About 20 minutes by car from Carshalton*. This is the Watermill pub in Dorking where you can sit in the peaceful garden looking up at the famous Box Hill. It’s a sunny spot with comfy seating and a lots of menu options. Walk off a meal with a short circular wander around nearby […]

Headley Heath Trail of Wartime Spies and Overgrown Trenches

Buggy friendly: 2 / 5 Steepness: 4/5 Toilets: no This popular dog walkers paradise has a surprising history uncovered on this circular walk. Take a look at the indents in the soil, showing the position of trenches dug by Canadian forces training ahead of D-Day on 6 June 1944. Once they would have been at […]