Guildford sits where the Wey cuts through the North Downs, a cobbled high street sloping steeply enough that finishing a pint at the top feels like it should count as exercise. It's proper commuter-belt territory, but don't let that put you off: the hills either side are some of the prettiest walking country within reach of the capital, and nothing sharpens a thirst like a few hours out on them.
Around the town the Surrey Hills spread out in every direction, Godalming, Farnham, Dorking, each with a High Street pub or two worth the drive and a village green that looks like it hasn't changed since the war. It's the kind of stretch that rewards a wrong turn, tucked down lanes and behind hedgerows, keeping its best spots slightly hidden rather than sat on the main road. Finish a walk on the Downs and there's usually somewhere nearby that's earned the pint more than most.
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