For many of us, September often feels like a natural pause or a fresh new chapter. After the whirlwind of Summer – whether you’ve been travelling, working flat out, or keeping the kids entertained – it’s easy to arrive in Autumn feeling a little scattered. That’s why this month is the perfect time to carve out a few hours just for you: to slow down, breathe and reconnect.
As a holistic healer, I see firsthand with my clients the importance of actively choosing to seek out peace and quiet and reconnection to themselves – especially after a tough or busy time. And sometimes, the best way to begin that process is as simple as stepping into nature, giving yourself space to reflect and allowing inspiration to flow back in.
Luckily for us, Surrey has some wonderful hidden gems that make this easy. Here are five of my favourite, lesser-known spots where you can find peace, creativity, reconnection or even a touch of spiritual refresh this September.
ICHI-COO PARK, CHARLWOOD
Open sporadically to the public (so keep an eye on their Instagram page), this is one of Surrey’s best-kept secrets. Developed over 15 years by owner and keen gardener, Robin, a walk through Ichi-Coo Park will take you all around the world. From Japanese-inspired gardens with koi ponds, to Surrey’s tallest ‘jungle’ and the rare plants of the ‘Grand Canyon’, through to locally themed designs like the Royal Mile, inspired by Windsor’s famous Long Walk.
Ichi-Coo Park is a beautiful mix of water, stone, sculpture, wildlife and clever planting that instantly shifts you into calm as you wander the paths and explore the hidden gems scattered all over its 16 acres.
If you’ve been racing through summer and need to slow your pace, it’s the perfect place to take a breath, drop your shoulders and rediscover your centre.
SILENT POOL DISTILLERY, ALBURY
The Silent Pool is a strikingly clear spring-fed lake with an almost mystical presence. Legends and folklore swirl around its history, most interesting the tale of how the Silent Pool got its name! (We don’t want to give too much away but the tours that are done here will explain all!)
It’s a truly stunning sight to take in and on a sunny day you can see the turquoise, blue and green waters and the most beautiful butterflies and dragonflies. It is surprising that when you visit here what you feel most is the stillness of the famous Silent Pool. Mirrored water reflecting back a sense of calm makes it a perfect spot to sit quietly, meditate or simply pause and notice the beauty around you. And be sure to take a journal to capture your thoughts and feelings inspired by this dream-like place.
Since the Silent Pool itself is relatively small, if you are craving a little more post-meditative adventure, you will find the Silent Pool Gin Distillery just a minute walk from here – they run insightful Tours and Events so stay tuned to Surrey Rocks Calendar on Page 17 for all their latest experiences. There is also a fantastic on-site distillery shop selling all their gins and other spirits, as well as a beautiful Terrace Bar to enjoy a chilled drink after your visit overlooking part of the Silent Pool.
Nearby there are also Tours around the Albury Organic Vineyard which backs onto the pool, and the stunning Newlands Corner nature reserve with its panoramic views across Surrey from a height of over 170 meters!
THE SCULPTURE PARK, CHURT
If you’re craving inspiration as well as peace, The Sculpture Park is a treat. Imagine acres of woodland dotted with hundreds of sculptures, each one inviting you to pause and see the world a little differently.
The cleverly curated works of art peek around every enchanting corner of woodland; their creativity mixing seamlessly into 2 miles of natural paths, lawns, lakes and seating areas. It’s the perfect place to lose yourself!
This combination of nature and art will ground your energy whilst simultaneously spark new ideas, so if your mind has been stuck on repeat this Summer, then take a walk amongst the trees at The Sculpture Park this September. Please note that to take in all the sculptures it is recommended to set aside a minimum of two hours to finish all the 4 trails on offer! It does take a while to get round if you really take in and admire the amazing artistry on display.
WAVERLEY ABBEY, FARNHAM
There’s something truly special about the ruins of Waverley Abbey, not least due to its famous yew tree which is believed to have steadfastly watched over the surrounding land since 1536.
The site of the first Cistercian monastery in England, founded in 1128 by William Giffard, the Bishop of Winchester. The energy here is both peaceful and powerful. Surrounded by history, wildlife and nature aplenty – and with the River Wey flowing nearby – it’s easy to lose an hour or two to reflection time and gentle walks.
Just across the bridge, you can stop for refreshments at The Cafe at Waverley Abbey, before walking the well-maintained Waverley Abbey House gardens, including its trails and paths.
If you’ve been feeling a little out of touch with yourself lately, this is a beautiful spot to let go of responsibility and reconnect with history, nature and, most importantly, yourself.
STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING, GODALMING
If Summer has kept you stuck in your head – planning, organising or simply spinning through busy thoughts – stand-up paddleboarding along a beautiful stretch of the River Wey in Godalming is the perfect way to get back into your body.
Roar Outdoor is a great place to visit combining nature and gentle exercise. They offer lessons and board hire sessions that combine movement, balance and the calming presence of water with its rhythm soothing your nervous system and naturally encouraging a meditative state.
As you paddle slowly through the peace of the canal, listening to the lapping water and catching close-up views of wildlife along its banks, you won’t be able to help but drop into the present moment – feeling the movement of your body, focusing on your breath, and deeply reconnecting to your inner self.
By the time you step back onto land, you’ll be feeling lighter, clearer, and more at home in your own skin.
A LITTLE REMINDER
Whether it’s grounding yourself in nature, finding creative inspiration or opening up to a sense of spiritual connection, these Surrey gems are waiting to support you. Taking a pause isn’t indulgent – it’s essential, and when we lovingly give ourselves that space, we come back to life with more clarity, joy and energy.
So, if the Summer has left you tired, scattered or in need of a reset, why not gift yourself a peaceful hour or two in one of these places? Sometimes, it’s the quietest moments that bring the greatest shifts.
WORDS BY: LOTTIE ROSE WRIGHT, HOLISTIC HEALER. “I guide people looking to delve deeper into understanding themselves, finding inner peace and gaining life clarity – especially after challenging times.”
Follow Lottie @Lottierosehealing on Instagram
