Car Hire Banstead

Banstead sits on the northern edge of Surrey, combining the feel of a small town with ready access to the countryside. With the A217 skimming its eastern edge and the M25 just a short drive away, it’s easily reachable for anyone travelling by car. The area sees a typical southern English climate—mild springs, pleasantly warm summers and brisk winters. Waterproofs are always a good idea but for those chasing the best weather, late spring to early autumn offers the driest days.

Banstead’s identity is shaped by its greenbelt setting, long-standing village atmosphere and a surprising connection to literary magic. A walk through the woodlands here reveals unexpected nods to The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, while the town also hosts a range of small seasonal fairs and community events. While nearby in Kingswood, we decided to take a short drive over and spend a full afternoon exploring this town with 16,000 residents.

Attractions In Banstead

What makes Banstead inviting is the mix of unspoilt green space and small cultural discoveries scattered across the town and nearby villages.

Oaks Park

Just off Croydon Lane, Oaks Park is a vast expanse of meadows, woods and open views that sits right on Banstead’s border with Coulsdon. We followed one of the many winding paths across the grassland and found plenty of dog walkers, runners and cyclists making the most of the space.

There’s also a hidden rose garden tucked behind the main café area. If you’re after a peaceful open-air walk with varied scenery, this is an easy pick. Open 24 hours.

Banstead Wood & Chipstead Downs Nature Reserve

You’ll find this spot just outside Tadworth, where the footpaths dip and climb through ancient woodland. What surprised us most were the wood carvings inspired by Narnia, including a striking sculpture of Aslan.

It’s part of a circular trail through oak and beech trees and there’s a calm, secluded quality to the area that makes early mornings especially atmospheric. The reserve is always open and though parking is free, spaces are limited.

The Mayfield Phonebox

Not far from the Mayfield Lavender Fields, this quirky purple phonebox has become a small photo landmark. It may be a simple feature but the contrast with the lavender rows behind it makes for a fun and colourful snapshot.

We stopped by mid-morning—a good time for soft natural light. The site is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on Sundays.

Nork Park

Nork Park, located along Nork Way, feels a bit more rugged than the formal parks nearby. There’s a dense patch of woodland that’s great for exploring on foot, especially if you’re travelling with kids or dogs.

Open fields surround the wooded section, so it’s easy to switch between open play and shady trails. Popular with those in Redhill, especially on weekends when locals come out for a stroll.

White Witch – Narnia Carving

In the middle of Banstead Woods stands a life-sized wooden sculpture of the White Witch. The carving is detailed and expressive and there’s something quietly magical about stumbling upon it during a walk.

We found a few benches nearby—one of them named “Ann’s Bench”—where walkers had paused to admire the view or take photos. It’s a lovely mid-hike surprise.

Lucy And The Lamppost

Another woodland feature, this cast-iron lamppost stands alone among the trees and references Lucy’s first encounter in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. It’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it but fans of the story will instantly recognise the symbolism.

You’ll find it on the same trail as the White Witch carving, so it’s well worth continuing the walk a little further.

Little Holland House

A short drive towards Warlingham or Carshalton brings you to this Arts and Crafts gem on Beeches Avenue. Little Holland House was designed and built by artist Frank Dickinson, who also created most of its contents.

Inside, you’ll find hand-carved furniture, embroidery and paintings—all preserved in a warm, homely setting. Open Sundays from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Service Wing Museum At Nonsuch Mansion

This small museum sits within Nonsuch Park in nearby Cheam. It offers a rare glimpse into domestic service life in the 18th and 19th centuries. Rooms are recreated to reflect the everyday experience of cooks, maids and footmen.

There’s also a scale model of the former Nonsuch Palace—it’s a common side trip for those already exploring Reigate. Check ahead for opening hours, as they vary.

The Regiment Of Trees

Langley Vale Centenary Wood in Epsom holds this striking WWI memorial. Each tree in the Regiment of Trees represents a fallen soldier, creating a powerful living tribute.

It’s a quiet and thoughtful place, ideal for a reflective walk. We visited in the early afternoon and the peaceful surroundings gave it an even more poignant atmosphere.

Coal Tax Post On Hollymeoak Road

Tucked into the verge near Caterham, this unassuming cast-iron post marks the old boundary where coal entering London became taxable. It’s one of many scattered around Greater London but easy to miss unless you’re looking for it.

Not much signage here but for fans of quirky history, it’s a fun little stop. Worth pulling over for a quick look if you’re passing by.

A Quick Break In Banstead

Spending time in Banstead is best done with a slow pace—and that extends to its food and drink. There’s a friendly mix of family-run takeaways and independent cafés scattered around the high street. Café Chai on Banstead High Street does great cakes and brunch-style plates, while Zizzi offers a convenient mid-range dinner stop with outdoor seating in good weather.

For a night’s stay, Premier Inn Epsom South offers simple parking and decent access to both Banstead and nearby towns—especially handy if you’re on your way through Kingswood or Coulsdon.