Car Hire New Malden

With leafy avenues, hidden green spaces and a vibrant cultural thread running through its heart, New Malden is one of most quietly distinctive neighbourhoods close to Surrey border. Located just off the A3 and well linked to the wider Surrey area, it’s an ideal stop for those exploring by car. The convenience of road travel makes it easy to dip in and out of town, whether you’re planning a short break or stringing together a few destinations across the region.

Expect a typically mild climate, though showers are common outside of summer—waterproof layers and comfortable footwear will go a long way. From late spring to early autumn, the weather tends to be at its best, perfect for walking trails, parks and open-air events.

New Malden is best known for its vibrant Korean influence, visible in everything from grocers and eateries to cultural festivals. It’s a local hub with a quiet but distinct personality—not flashy but full of character. Whether you’re parking up from nearby Kingston Upon Thames or circling back after a trip to Cheam, it’s a place that rewards a slower pace and a bit of curiosity.

Attractions In New Malden

Driving through New Malden gives you the freedom to uncover a surprising mix of local attractions. Some are tucked away behind tree-lined streets, others sit just off major routes—all easily reached with your own set of wheels.

Jurassic Encounter Adventure Golf

A standout for families or anyone up for a bit of lighthearted competition, Jurassic Encounter on Beverley Way is a full-scale dinosaur-themed mini-golf course. You’ll spot it easily as you pull in—the enormous models loom over the hedges! With imaginative holes and well-kept greens, it’s as fun as it is photogenic. Parking is straightforward and there’s a Costa next door for drinks after your round. Open daily from 8am to 8pm.

Kingston Road Recreation Ground

This transformed green space is now a community favourite, especially with its updated children’s play area, boxing club and café. You’ll find it along Kingston Road near Norbiton and it’s one of those places that works well as a spontaneous park stop if you’re driving around the area. There are tennis courts too and we happened to catch a lively match while walking the new perimeter path. Open 24/7.

Sir Joseph Hood Memorial Playing Fields

Approaching from Morden, we stopped off at this expansive park and were glad we made the detour. It’s ringed with oak trees and includes football pitches, a running track, outdoor gym equipment and a safe, enclosed area for toddlers. Parking is easy and free and the layout makes it a strong choice for a mid-morning stroll or even a picnic stop during a longer drive. Open all hours.

Blagdon Park

Blagdon Park sits just behind the shops off Blagdon Road and has become a great little family space. We liked how compact and easy to navigate it was—ideal if you’ve only got a short window before heading back on the road. The newly refurbished play area is well-kept and popular in the afternoons.

Green Lane Recreation Ground

If you’re driving around town and want a quieter spot to stretch your legs, Green Lane is a solid choice. This local park includes open grass areas, woodland paths by a stream and a well-fenced playground. It was particularly peaceful when we dropped by, with a few dog walkers and families enjoying the space. There’s on-street parking nearby and access is 24/7.

Mayflower Park Wetlands

Just beyond New Malden toward Worcester Park, this unusual urban wetland feels like a complete change of scenery. The bold architecture that lines the park gives it a surreal edge and the walking paths are popular with locals for birdwatching and slow strolls. If you’re road-tripping across suburban Surrey, it’s one of those curious finds worth adding to your route.

Cheeky Chimps New Malden

Set within the Sir Joseph Hood Memorial Park, this indoor soft play venue is a favourite for local families and visiting grandparents alike. Easy to reach by car, with a small car park right outside, it’s clean, well-managed and serves great child-friendly food. It opens from 9:15am on most days (closed Saturdays) and works well as part of a wider family day out if you’re already exploring the area.

Malden Manor Mosaic

We swung by this small but striking mosaic mural while heading out toward Surbiton. Located along Knollmead, the artwork is part of a local storytelling project and adds a splash of colour and character to the roadside. It’s not a main attraction but if you’re driving nearby, it’s worth slowing down to have a look.

Old Town Hall

Situated on the High Street, the Old Town Hall is easy to spot while driving through central New Malden. It’s more of a heritage marker than a full attraction but we stopped to sit on the benches and enjoy the streetscape. If you’re shopping or grabbing lunch, it’s a nice touch of local history in the mix.

Beeline Way Water Acorn

This odd little art piece is found along Alric Avenue—we only noticed it while driving slowly through a residential bit of town. It’s quirky, easy to miss and adds another layer to New Malden’s slightly offbeat charm. Not a destination in itself but a fun thing to spot if you’re taking the long way around.

Fairmont Hairpin

While looping around Lime Grove, we came across the Fairmont Hairpin—a distinctive curve in the road known to local drivers. It’s the sort of thing you appreciate more behind the wheel than on foot. Motoring fans from Mitcham might recognise it as a bit of an unspoken landmark.

Jubilee Square

We pulled in near Jubilee Square after arriving from Tolworth. It’s a small landscaped space with flowerbeds and seating, mostly serving as a cut-through between shopping areas. Handy for a leg stretch before picking up groceries or heading onward.

Food, Parking And Overnight Options

Driving through New Malden gives you access to a wide range of places to eat and pause—especially if you love Korean cuisine. There are excellent restaurants and cafés on and around the High Street, along with smaller supermarkets that are ideal for stocking up during your trip. Parking is fairly generous, especially near the larger parks or shopping zones.

While accommodation within New Malden itself is limited to smaller lodgings and guesthouses, branching out to Chessington opens up more options—and with a car, it’s all well within reach.