June days out
Call this your exclusive guide on what-to-do this summer, whether you’re looking to try something new, get some well-earned peace and quiet, or simply soak up the (occasional) bit of British sunshine.
For the family explorers
New House Farm will be opening its gates this summer for another ‘pick your own’ fruit season. A perfect (and tasty) day-out for families, which allows you to reap the rewards of your hard work. There’s designated parking for visitors, and a tearoom on site, which features local produce also available for purchase in the farm shop. newhousefarmshop.co.uk
Set in the heart of the Surrey countryside, and less than a half hour’s drive from the town centre, Bocketts Farm Park is hosting a number of events throughout June, alongside its usual fare of tractor rides, pig racing, and animal encounters. There’s a huge indoor play barn for rainy days, and a tearoom on site – which has options for even the pickiest of eaters. bockettsfarm.co.uk
For the runners
Taking place from 26-28th June throughout Haywards Heath, Sussex Runfest offers group runs, practical workshops, games and challenges – and even a rave to kick off the weekend. Organised entirely by volunteers, it’s a chance to meet with fellow strava fanatics and hear tips and tricks from some of the community’s best fitness leaders. sussexrunfest.co.uk
Start your Saturday with Reigate Priory parkrun and afterwards, (if your legs are still working), take a short walk into town for brunch at Beryl and Pegs, and pick up a bacon buttie, or a full English if you’ve really put yourself to pace. You can also order a picnic for £15 a head – we recommend taking this to the castle grounds for the best views.
For the cyclers
Summer months are the perfect time to explore Worth Way, with the traffic free path running from Crawley towards East Grinstead. Flat and shaded in places, it’s ideal for walking, cycling or scooting through early summer greenery. Start from Three Bridges and finish with coffee or lunch in East Grinstead, or pack a picnic and make the journey part of the day out.
If you’re looking for a relaxed June cycle, follow quiet lanes towards Charlwood, passing river and woodland scenery without hard climbs. Stop for lunch or a drink at The Fox Revived – locals recommend their fish and chips – although there’s plenty of options for veggies too.
An easy June cycle takes you from Reigate through quiet lanes towards Brockham, with gentle scenery rather than steep climbs. Stop for coffee or cake at The Village Bakery before looping back via Betchworth, where riverside views and village pubs make for a nice final pause before returning.
For the outdoor diners
In summer, South Lodge really comes into its own for al fresco dining. Settle in on the terrace for lunch or drinks overlooking the South Downs – we recommend stopping by the rock gardens at Leonardslee, only a 15-minute walk away. There are three main eateries on offer, each with their own level of formality and take on cuisine, so there’s options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between. exclusive.co.uk/south-lodge
Stop by the Deli on the Hill for a freshly made sandwich (they’re particularly well-known for an excellent Reuben) and then take a five-minute walk over to Wray Common’s iconic Windmill for the perfect picnic and scenery combo. If you’re looking to burn off some energy after, you can take an exercise class or a dip in the pool at Donyngs, and then end the day with a drink on the patio at The Hatch.
For the nature wanderers
June is one of the best times to visit Knepp Estate, when the rewilded landscapes are at their most active. Join a guided safari or trek on your own to spot deer and Exmoor ponies, listen for nightingales and turtle doves, and watch soldier beetles and dragonflies among the wildflowers. If you fancy staying longer, you can hire a shepherd’ shut or even pitch your own tent in a meadow. knepp.co.uk
In June, Bedelands Nature Reserve is perfect for a weekend summer stroll, with riverside paths, wildflowers and shaded woodland. After your walk, drive five minutes to The Oak Barn for a much-needed post-walk reward. If you’re visiting on a Sunday, make sure to sample their roast, which features local cuts of meat, duck fat roast potatoes, and extra crackling and gravy (a must!)
If you haven’t already been, June is the ideal time for walks and picnics around the Ouse Valley Viaduct. Follow riverside paths, find a sunny spot, and watch trains sweep across the skyline. Make sure to take the requisite Instagram picture posed along the arches, or just enjoy feeling superior as you watch everyone else queue up for the shot.
For the culture lovers
Archway Theatre has two shows on throughout June – Jack Absolute Flies Again, a classic comedy of manners, and The Wrong Way Round, a musical mystery adventure. Stop by Ye Olde Six Bells for a post-performance dinner – if you go on the weekend, they now offer a treat menu, with three courses for £32.50 (we’re curious about the Pig in a Duvet starter). archwaytheatre.co.uk
Held this June at Horsham Sports Club, Horsham’s Big Gig is a one day tribute music festival featuring multiple live acts performing well known chart hits. The event includes food and drink stalls, space for picnics, and festival activities for all ages. Gates open mid afternoon, with music and entertainment continuing into the evening. horshamsportsclub.com
For the quiz lovers
Make a day of it with a countryside walk through Bankey Wood, finishing at The Sloop Inn in Scaynes Hill. On 16th June, arrive in time for quiz night – which also happens to be pie and pint night (brain food, obviously). Teams of up to six, £2 per person to enter, with cash prizes for brightest and best. thesloopinn.com
For the wellness seekers
If you’re looking to decompress, Wild Spa Wowo in Uckfield is hosting a sauna festival on the 2-4th June. Curated around the theme ‘Return to the Roots’ Sauna Camp 2026 includes a range of sauna rituals from around the world, as well as workshops and wellness activities. wildspawowo.co.uk
For the food lovers
Start your day with a wander around Hayward’s Heath’s Victoria Park, which has regular tennis fixtures on throughout the month (saving you the Wimbledon ticket), and then come along to Safari Pizza to learn the art of pizza making. You’ll make, proof, shape and top your dough – and then sit down with a drink at the end while you enjoy your creation. safaripizzas.co.uk
For the plane spotters
A June visit to Gatwick Aviation Museum makes for a good (and educational) day out, especially when the weather isn’t co-operating- with historic aircraft displayed both indoors and outdoors. We recommend pairing your visit with lunch at The Charlwood, which has all the best-loved pub classics, alongside a rotating Indian-focused menu. gamc.org.uk
For the climbers
A June visit to Box Hill suits anyone looking for classic Surrey views without a long day on foot. Take a short circular walk for sweeping Downs scenery, spot butterflies and wildflowers, then refuel at the National Trust café – or at the ice cream kiosk next door (word on the street says they’re launching a Chocolate Guiness Cake flavour this summer).
For the forest trekkers
Winnie-the-Pooh turns 100 this year, so now couldn’t be a better time to explore the ancient heathland of Ashdown Forest. Join wildlife discovery sessions, follow guided nature trails or simply roam the open heath and woodland. Look out for ponies, build dens, and we’d be silly not to suggest a game of Poohsticks at the bridge.
For the history lovers
For military history fans, you can’t do much better than Reigate fort – a mysterious World War II structure built to protect London from a French invasion that never came. Enjoy walks along the wide open chalkland, and then finish your day at Pilgrim Brewery’s Tap Room with a local pint.
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