Woodland walks in Surrey

Best forest walks in Surrey

In between the inevitable showers of rain, the autumn and winter season is an ideal time to be out and about enjoying woodland, parks and outdoor spaces.

Immersing yourself in nature can help promote relaxation and evoke a sense of well-being, and wooded areas offer a landscape which changes with the seasons.

The Japanese art of Shinrin-yoku, which translates as “forest bathing”, invites you to immerse yourself in a woodland environment. The aim is to use all your senses to connect with your surroundings and appreciate the beauty of nature.

Try these techniques when taking a walk in the woods: taking a few deep breaths of fresh air, noting the sights, sounds and smells of the woodland; the different types of trees, the shapes of roots and branches, the interplay of light and shade, the variety of colours in the leaves.

In a relaxed mood of mindfulness and contemplation, you might sit under a mighty oak or even be inspired to try a spot of tree-hugging.

Here are some top spots for forest bathing and woodland walks in Surrey: