Car Hire Smallfield

There’s something unassuming about Smallfield. With no high street to shout about and few road signs pointing you in, it’s the sort of place you drive through slowly—and end up staying longer than expected.

Set in east Surrey near Horley and Outwood, it’s easy to reach by car via the A264 or M23. The area has a mild, often damp climate, so waterproof layers and comfortable walking shoes are a smart bet. Spring through early autumn offers the most reliable weather for getting outdoors, whether that’s a short woodland trail or a scenic loop through the neighbouring villages.

While it lacks headline events or big-ticket sights, Smallfield makes up for it with gentle countryside, family-run attractions and the kind of space that invites a slower pace backed by its lower populace of just 3,000 people. We began the day in Godstone, easing into a route that feels made for relaxed exploring.

Attractions In Smallfield

The village and surrounding lanes hold a handful of modest but memorable stops. You won’t find crowds but you will find space – and plenty of green.

Happy Hedgehog

At Triddles Farm on Plough Road, the Happy Hedgehog garden is part allotment, part outdoor curiosity and completely charming. It’s not the kind of place you plan your day around – more something you spot on a map and think, “Why not?”

The path winds past flowers and whimsical ornaments and the atmosphere is quiet, neighbourly. We parked easily, wandered a little and left with muddy shoes and a smile.

Broadbridge Lane Open Space

This newly developed community park sits behind hedgerows on Broadbridge Lane, offering a surprisingly polished space for families. It’s well-fenced, soft-surfaced and themed with quirky transport features – ideal for children under ten.

We visited around midday and found it especially handy for kids to burn off energy. It’s open from 8am to 8pm daily. We passed through here before heading over to Caterham for a late lunch.

Republic Of Treeland

There’s something wonderfully odd about the Republic of Treeland – a self-styled micronation hidden along Treeland Way. It isn’t somewhere you’ll spend hours but it does leave you smiling.

On our way in from Lingfield, we made a quick stop for a photo and a wander. No entry fees, no tours, just a sign and a space that’s become part of local lore.

Shipley Bridge Lake

Just beyond the village boundary lies Shipley Bridge Lake, quiet and shaded by trees. It’s easy to miss unless you’re looking for it but for us, it became an unexpected pause in the day.

We walked the perimeter path while low sun hit the water and the stillness made a welcome contrast to busier spots like Redhill. It’s not signposted or commercial – which is likely why it stays so peaceful.

The Bridge At Shipley Bridge

Further along Antlands Lane, you’ll spot a modest brick structure arching over a brook. This is the Bridge at Shipley Bridge – not grand but quietly interesting. A nearby river gauge tells you how high the water is running and there’s space to stand and listen as it flows beneath you.

It’s not the sort of place you plan for – more the kind you’re glad you stopped at. We were in and out in ten minutes and it was time well spent.

Horley War Memorial

Before heading back to Coulsdon, we visited this small but respectfully maintained memorial on Vicarage Lane in nearby Horley.

The setting is simple: clean stonework, floral beds and a bench or two. What stood out most was the quiet – just footsteps and the occasional passing car.

National Trust – Harewoods

A short drive north brings you to the sprawling meadows of Harewoods, managed by the National Trust. It’s a little rough around the edges – some paths are unmarked and the parking area’s a bumpy patch of gravel – but that adds to the countryside feel.

We walked through tall grass and birch, dodged the odd puddle and found a peaceful cricket field nestled behind a hedge. It felt like somewhere that doesn’t need signage – just a good pair of boots and a bit of time.

Discovery Land At Priory Farm

Recommended to us by a couple from Reigate, Discovery Land turned out to be a highlight for families. It’s a series of nature trails on the Priory Farm Estate, peppered with interactive features and a few cheeky surprises.

The atmosphere is relaxed and very outdoorsy – coat hooks, muddy wellies, warm drinks. We skipped the café at the front of the estate and opted instead for the open-fire stall halfway round. Good call.

British Wildlife Centre

Tucked just off Eastbourne Road, the British Wildlife Centre is a compact but thoughtful site with native animals in well-kept enclosures. Keeper talks happen all day and you’ll see everything from foxes and stoats to owls perched silently under the trees.

It’s a gentle space – ideal for a two- to three-hour visit. Easily reached on a loop through Oxted if you’re day-tripping by car.

Outwood Post Mill

Our final stop was the historic windmill on Gayhouse Lane – Outwood Post Mill. Claimed to be one of the oldest working mills in Britain, it sits quietly among the fields, open Sundays only from noon until 6pm.

The owner happened to be there, friendly and full of stories. After a short chat and a few photos, we made our way back toward Leigh just as the clouds started rolling in.

Suggested Driving Route

If you’re picking up a hire car and want to make a day of it, try this: start your morning with a short walk at Harewoods, then circle south to the Happy Hedgehog. From there, head to Shipley Bridge Lake and grab lunch nearby. In the afternoon, visit the British Wildlife Centre and wind down with dinner in Bletchingley or Horley. It’s a full day but all within a compact stretch of Surrey lanes.

Rest Awhile In Smallfield

Smallfield’s charm is its simplicity but you’ll find good food and places to rest just outside its border. In Horley, Café Suncatcher is a warm, independently run spot where the staff seem to know every regular. We ducked in for a lemon drizzle and stayed for a second pot of tea.

If you’re staying the night, Gatwick Turret Guest House offers free parking and clean, affordable rooms with minimal fuss. Dinner? We’d recommend The Red Barn in nearby Blindley Heath – a 16th-century pub with seasonal British fare, low beams and hearty portions that suit the end of a long drive.