Wildlife and Nature

Lobbington Meadow is an unimproved species-rich hay meadow which faces north east on the banks of the River Dene and exhibits ridge and furrow topography. The meadow overlies Lias clays and shales which have given rise to a calcareous soil.

The Farne Islands are possibly the most exciting seabird colony in England with unrivalled views of 23 species, including around 37,000 pairs of puffin.

It's also home to a large grey seal colony, with more than 1,000 pups born every autumn.

Historically, the islands have strong links with Celtic Christianity and St Cuthbert, who lived here in the 7th Century.

There's also a medieval pele tower and Victorian lighthouse here, plus a visitor centre and easy access boardwalk.

Holmwood Common is at the heart of the local community and is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by all. It’s just off the A24 (south of Dorking), so why not break a car journey south to the coast with a stop? Stretch your legs and explore...

Dappled woodland and sunny clearings greet you – beautiful countryside for walking, horse riding and cycling. The common is fairly flat and ideal for families to explore, but it can be wet underfoot. Great fun though for kids who like squelching in mud with their brightly coloured wellies.

Corrieshalloch may mean ‘Ugly Hollow’ in Gaelic, but there is nothing ugly about Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve, a deep tree-shrouded chasm and beauty spot that cuts through a Highland wilderness rich in flora and fauna. Corrieshalloch is a slot gorge, or box-canyon, that was cut as far back as 2.6million years ago by Ice Age glacial meltwater.

The River Droma forges through the gorge, dramatically dropping 100 metres in just 1.25km through a series of waterfalls, including the thunderous 45m high Falls of Measach.