Join Surrey's The Big Camp on July 18

The National Trust invites the public to book a night in our nocturnal countryside on July 18. Craft and Country columnist Emma Pritchard shares the best local spots for The Big Camp

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What’s not to love about the summer?

As warm days pass into balmy-breezed evenings, the skies light up with diamond-bright stars, while the warmth of a BBQ or homemade fire, plus toasted marshmallows, gooey on your fingertips, encourage you to linger on.

This season, why not venture out of your garden?

Surrey has plenty of dark-sky pockets, perfect for soaking up the sights and sounds of the countryside. You could even take it one step further and pitch up a tent.

For one night only, the National Trust is inviting the public to camp in some of their most magical settings – open fires, refreshments, family activities and even live music all provided. Why not give it a go?

The Big Camp takes place on Saturday, July 18.

Booking is essential.

Read more of Emma's great ideas for making the most of the countryside in her monthly column* or read more of Emma's musings on her blog, craftandcountry.com; or follow her on Twitter @craftandcountry

*Available in The Surrey Downs Magazine, The Guildford Magazine, The Woking Magazine, The Farnham Magazine, The Elmbridge Magazine and The Kingston Magazine). 

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  Black Down

  Tennyson's Lane, Haslemere, GU27

  01428 652359

  Website

  Admire the views from Black Down, near Haslemere. Head to the highest point in the South Downs National Park and try and see if you can see the sea as the sun sets. Join a guided wildlife walk or simply relax by the band, then let the sound of the nightjar and scent of pine lull you to sleep.
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  Hatchlands Park

  East Clandon, Guildford, GU4 7RT

  01483 222482

  Website

  Enjoy a floral foray at Hatchlands Park, East Clandon. With its fine Georgian red-brick mansion as your backdrop, and more than 400 acres of tranquil parkland and wildflower-filled ancient woodland to explore, this is a National Trust setting at its best – and a perfect one for a night time of nature.
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  River Wey

  Wharf Road, Guildford, GU1 4RR

  Take a boat ride along the River Wey. Pitch up on secluded banks or at the historic Dapdune Wharf in Guildford, and keep an eye out for bats swooping across the water or a glimpse of The Milky Way. The Guildford Astronomical Society will be there with telescopes and the National Trust will be running boat trips, until dusk.