Car Hire Ripley

Ripley, a peaceful village in Surrey, housing just about 2,000 people, is perfectly positioned for anyone exploring by car. Just off the A3 between Woking and Guildford and close to the M25, it’s an ideal stop for those hiring a car and driving through the region. Its compact layout, easy roads and relaxing atmosphere make it well-suited to slow-paced discovery. The weather is mild throughout the year but the best months for scenic walks and countryside stops are April to October. Many visit during Ripley’s monthly food markets or plan their trip around the annual Ripley Bonfire—a lively local event complete with fireworks. Pack light layers, walking shoes and a flask if you’re taking advantage of car hire to explore multiple nearby locations.

Attractions In Ripley

Ripley is ideal for those getting around by car—easy to access, with straightforward parking and a layout that encourages exploration on foot once you’ve arrived. Many of its best spots are just a turn or two from the main road, making it a great choice for anyone planning a flexible day trip by hire car.

RHS Garden Wisley

Just a five-minute drive from Ripley’s centre, RHS Garden Wisley is one of the UK’s best-known gardens. There’s plenty of parking and once inside, the space unfolds into beautifully designed landscapes, glasshouses and water features. With more than 17,000 reviews, it’s clearly well loved. It’s open daily from 10am to 4:30pm (weekends from 9am), with cafés and a garden shop onsite. A favourite for people in Woking, it also marks the start of many scenic drives through Surrey’s quieter corners.

Wisley Common

Right beside RHS Wisley, Wisley Common offers a quieter, wilder alternative. You’ll find a few laybys and roadside spots to park before entering the woodland and heathland trails. We took a relaxed morning walk here before driving on to our next stop in Cobham. It’s open 24/7 and great for casual walks or dog-friendly outings.

Newark Priory

A short drive down Newark Lane takes you to the River Wey towpath, where Newark Priory’s medieval ruins rise unexpectedly from the landscape. The priory itself is on private land but the views from the canal path are striking. This is a great photo stop and the parking nearby is limited but usually quiet. We followed the river for a scenic loop before heading toward Bookham.

Papercourt Marshes

Tannery Lane has limited parking but if you’re coming by car, Papercourt Marshes is well worth the stop. It’s a quiet, open landscape of water meadows and reeds and perfect for a peaceful stroll. It also serves well as a halfway point between Ripley and Ashtead, especially for nature lovers or birdwatchers.

Chinese Pagoda

This quirky structure near Wisley adds an unexpected visual twist to the countryside. Easily accessible by car with space to park nearby, the pagoda is open daily from 10am to 6pm (from 9am at weekends). We made it a short photo stop after leaving the RHS gardens—a fun contrast to the otherwise traditional feel of the area.

Woking Palace

Following a brief drive from Leatherhead, Woking Palace offers a touch of Tudor history in a peaceful rural setting. Access is via a quiet lane, with modest parking nearby. Though only remnants remain, there are detailed boards explaining its past. It’s free to enter and makes for a good leg-stretch on a longer route.

Dunsborough Park

Only open on selected days, Dunsborough Park’s gardens are a hidden gem just off Ripley High Street. There’s limited parking on site during open days, so we recommend arriving early if visiting by car. The grounds are charming and ideal for a relaxed stroll, though not all paths are buggy-friendly. Most open days run from 9am to 5pm.

Ripley Green

Ripley Green sits at the heart of the village and is a natural pause point for anyone driving through. It’s also where the annual bonfire and firework event is held. We passed through after visiting Albury and enjoyed a quiet afternoon snack overlooking the fields. There’s free parking nearby and open space to stretch out in good weather.

St Mary’s Church

This historic village church is just off the High Street and has nearby street parking. The churchyard walk leads to a peaceful pond and small nature area, which feels almost hidden behind the gravestones. Open 9am to 5pm most days (from 10am on Sundays), it’s a nice contrast to the busier central spots.

National Trust – Newark Lock

Driving in from West Byfleet, you’ll find Newark Lock just off the towpath. There’s usually somewhere to pull over nearby and the setting is peaceful—canal boats, ducks and the sound of water at the weir. It’s one of many tranquil spots on the Wey Navigation and ideal for a walking break from a longer journey. Open 24/7.

Papercourt Lock & Weir

Further along Tannery Lane, Papercourt Lock is another beautiful riverside location that’s especially popular with photographers. We parked off the verge and followed a short track down to the water. Before heading back to Guildford, we stopped here for a quiet rest and a bit of fresh air—a perfect way to close a relaxed driving day.

A Peaceful Drive With Plenty Of Stops

Ripley is tailor-made for those who enjoy discovering Surrey by car. With small, accessible car parks and attractions just minutes apart, it works well for day trips and weekend escapes alike. Food lovers will appreciate the mix of cafés, bakeries and pubs, while a few independent shops offer gifts and supplies for the road. For those staying overnight, cosy inns and self-catering spots are available just off the main lanes. If you’re planning a short road trip or hiring a car for a countryside break, Ripley makes a rewarding stop with just the right mix of space, character and ease.