Hidden Surrey – unexpected adventures across the county

From quiet walks to quirky museums, enjoy Surrey’s lesser‑known gems this month

February may be one of the shortest months of the year, but across Surrey it’s packed with opportunities to get outdoors, explore local culture and discover hidden gems.

As part of our Hidden Surrey series, we’ve rounded up some of the most interesting and cost‑effective activities you can enjoy throughout the month.

From pancake races to woodland walks to hands-on creative workshops, there's something for everyone.

Get outdoors

Chinthurst Hill

Set on a hillside within the Surrey Hills National Landscape, this beautiful Local Nature Reserve rises to over 120m and offers sweeping views across east Surrey. At the summit of Chinthurst Hill, you’ll find a charming Grade II listed folly tower – an ideal spot for a romantic picnic.

The Basingstoke Canal and Visitor Centre

The Basingstoke Canal is a beautiful waterway that runs through Surrey from New Haw to the Canal Visitor Centre at Mytchett and beyond into Hampshire. Take the family to the centre for a day out. There are boat trips, kayak and canoe hire, an onsite cafe and natural play area as well as a large meadow.

Tice’s Meadow

Tice’s Meadow, near Farnham is a newly developed Site of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCI) on the site of the former Farnham Quarry. This 55-hectare site is widely considered to be one of the best inland sites to watch birds in the southeast of England. There’s lots to enjoy here from the circular 1.5-mile Biodiversity self-guided trail to brass rubbing sites featuring birds you may discover across the site.

British Wildlife Centre, Lingfield

The British Wildlife Centre in the heart of the East Surrey countryside is home to the finest collection of native species in the country. Here you’ll view rarely seen species such as otters, Scottish wildcats and pine martens, as well as foxes, deer and beautiful free-flying British owls.

Best places to see snowdrops

Snowdrops in Surrey usually bloom from late January through February into early March, with displays often peaking in mid‑February, depending on the weather.

• Painshill Park's sweeping 18th‑century landscape garden bursts into life with carpets of delicate snowdrops, making it a perfect location for a peaceful winter stroll.
• At Gatton Park, rows of snowdrops line historic paths and lakesides, creating a tranquil backdrop for a refreshing February walk.

Museums

Those seeking a touch of history can also immerse themselves in Surrey’s heritage.

Mercedes-Benz World, Weybridge

Mercedes‑Benz World offers free entry to its museum spaces, where visitors can explore an impressive display of vehicles and motoring history.

Surrey History Centre, Woking

The Surrey History Centre collects and preserves the records of Surrey's past and present. Documenting the story of the county and its people from the 12th century to the 21st century.

Gatwick Aviation Museum

Explore aviation history at Gatwick Aviation Museum, where vintage aircraft and engines reveal how flight has evolved over the decades.

Dorking Museum

A community‑run museum telling the story of Dorking’s history, including its famous Deepdene Estate, local trades, geology, and a surprisingly rich artistic heritage. One of its most intriguing features lies beneath the town, the South Street Caves. A network of hand‑dug sandstone tunnels dating back at least to the 17th century,

Plane Spotting at Fairoaks Airport

Fairoaks Airport offers an up‑close look at light aircraft taking off and landing, making it a surprisingly engaging outing for aviation enthusiasts and families.

Something different

Ringo Rides at The Oak Wood, Esher

Enjoy a rush of adrenaline as you whizz downhill on inflatable donuts at The Oak Wood’s exciting Ringo Rides course. Admission is £15.

Little Street, West Byfleet

Little Street offers young children a delightful miniature world to explore, complete with role‑play areas designed to spark creativity.

Surrey Libraries

Surrey Libraries are celebrating the National Year of Reading 2026 with themed activities, family fun days and creative sessions running throughout the year. Check out our top 10 events for February.