Whether you’ll be walking the dogs, taking your mountain bike out for a spin, riding a horse or simply spending a day with the family, add these hiking spots to your list.
Ruffett Wood
A firm favourite with families, this circular trail takes you through a beautiful variety of landscapes. The trailhead is found near the charming village of Chiddingfold, which has been one of the country’s leading spots for glassmaking since the 13th century. The woods are filled with native oak, beech and ash trees, while open farmlands are a great spot for warm-weather picnics. For the animal lovers, rabbits, hedgehogs, owls and woodpeckers are frequently spotted along the route.
Narnia Trail
One for the book lovers, this walking trail is an ode to C.S. Lewis’ magical forest. Head off from Sutton train station and enter the peaceful woodland of Oaks Park. A footpath winds around the trees and leads to a wood-carved statue of Aslan, designed by Surrey-based artist Ella Fielding. Continue onwards and you’ll reach rolling hills that overlook Chipstead, before entering back into the Banstead Woods where Ella’s hand-crafted wardrobe awaits your childlike imagination.
Banstead Heath
The Banstead Heath trail is a relaxed and utterly picturesque trail that’s suited for all kinds of abilities. It’s easy to get to by car or public transport, with the starting point being near Tadworth Railway Station. Along the circular route, you’ll pass the Walton Heath Golf Club and enjoy views across the Epsom Downs and its Derby racecourse. The Heath itself is breathtaking in summertime, with a carpet of purple heather covering its surface.
Woodmansterne Circular
This route starts in Banstead Downs, which enjoys sweeping skyline views of London from the Gally Hills. Carry on through Oaks Park before reaching open farmland — during July and August, the fields are mesmerising with bright, fragrant lavender. You can follow signs to the Little Woodcote Estate and reach the Naturally Thinking Farm Cafe, which is open year-round and sells a range of lavender-infused products.
Tattenham Corner
Located by the Epsom Downs Racecourse, Tattenham Corner circular trail is steeped in natural beauty and history. Take a ridge walk along Walton Downs before reaching Langley Vale Wood, which is the largest of the Woodland Trust’s First World War Centenary forests. Complete with ancient trees, poignant statues and wildflower meadows, it serves as a living memorial to those involved in the military conflict. Continue up an incline to Walton on the Hill, which is a great viewpoint and picnic spot in the sunny months.
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