Westhumble, Surrey
Westhumble is a hamlet rather than a village, a mile or so from Dorking and just under an hour from central London by train. Not a lot goes on here and whilst the A24 is at the bottom of the hamlet, much of it has a very peaceful rural feel to it - quiet lanes, old cottages, and of course, it's right at the foot of Box Hill in the beautiful Surrey Hills AONB. That means there are plenty of walking opportunities, including the Mole Gap Trail which runs from Dorking to Leatherhead, and nearby Norbury Park and Ranmore Common. The most well known walk is the one from the stepping stones over the River Mole to Box Hill - well worth the effort as the views are spectacular.
There are a few shops at Westhumble, and a train station and a pub, The Stepping Stones, but not much else, which is good if you want a break away from the thick of it. The oldest building in the village is the ruined chapel, which is now owned by the National Trust, and is so ruined that all that's left is the west gable and parts of the east end. It's thought to date from the late 12th century and in the more recent times there have been some interesting archaeological finds there, including six skeletons, several clay cooking pots and jugs dating from around 1300, and a silver penny from Tudor times.
All in all not a bad place to stay at all; loads to do nearby with towns, family attractions, activities and beauty spots within easy reach.
All information correct at the time of writing