Surrey Hills Hike: Box Hill & Headley Circular -16.5km - Grade 3/5 - Challenging


Details
Join Us for a Stunning Hike in the Surrey Hills - Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Location: Dorking, Surrey
Distance: 10 miles / 16.5 kilometers
Elevation Gain: 2,230 feet / 680 meters
Grade: 3 - Challenging
Walking Time: Approx. 5.5 hours Total Duration (including breaks): 6.5 hours
Start Time: 9:30 AM (Please arrive ready to start) Finish Time: Around 4 - 4:30 PM
Price: £12.50 per person (Plus meetup fee) Or pay by CARD
Accessible by Train - Yes
The Hike:
This is a fantastic circular route showcasing some of the best landscapes the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty has to offer. With a mix of steep climbs, open hilltops, and peaceful woodland trails, this hike provides a rewarding challenge with breathtaking views along the way. Starting from Westhumble Train Station, we’ll head into the scenic woodland and heathlands, gradually making our way toward Box Hill.
The climb to the summit is worth every step once at the top, we’ll pause to take in the stunning panoramic views across the North Downs. From here, we’ll continue east through ancient woodlands and rolling valleys, passing through Headley Heath, a beautiful area of chalk downland and open heath.
Our journey then leads us towards Norbury Park, a tranquil countryside estate with rich history, open meadows, and more spectacular views before looping back to our starting point. Expect a variety of terrain, including steep inclines, uneven ground, and sections of narrow woodland paths, making this a great choice for those looking for a challenging but highly rewarding hike.
Why This Walk is Grade 3 - Challenging:
Distance: At 16.5 km (10 miles), this falls at the lower end of the challenging grade but is made harder by the ascent.
Elevation: With 680 m (2,230 feet) of total ascent, there are some steep climbs, particularly up to Box Hill.
Pace & Terrain**:** A steady medium pace with breaks, navigating woodlands, steep hills, and uneven trails, requiring good fitness and confidence on mixed terrain. This hike is perfect for those who enjoy a good leg workout and want to explore one of Surrey’s most scenic and varied landscapes. Meeting Point: Meet in car park next to station.
Location:
Box Hill & Westhumble Train Station, Guildford Easily accessible by train from London Waterloo and Dorking.
Parking:
Nearby parking is available, but spaces may be limited please allow extra time if driving.
What to Wear and Bring:
- Our walks go ahead in all weather, so dress appropriately. Always carry a waterproof jacket.
- Check the forecast and bring sun cream, a hat, or sunglasses for warm days, and waterproofs, a warm hat, and gloves for cold or wet days.
- Wear trousers or leggings to reduce the risk of tick bites and nettle stings. Avoid denim or cotton.
- Sturdy walking shoes or boots are essential. Open-toe shoes are unsuitable.
- Bring at least 1.5 litres of water, lunch, and snacks, as there may be no opportunities to buy food or drinks along the route.
- Public toilets may not be available on the route.
Sign-Up Form:
If you haven’t completed a form this year or your circumstances have changed, please fill out the sign up form before attending. Participation is not allowed without a completed form, as this ensures we understand your needs and can maintain group safety. (link can be found in Ts&Cs section of the website - or cut and paste below into your browser) Form link: [https://form.jotform.com/201554976381058 ](https://form.jotform.com/201554976381058)
Preparation and Fitness:
You are responsible for your own health and safety. Ensure you can hike continuously for the duration specified. Dress appropriately, please bring the required gear and carry any personal medications. Participants without proper equipment may be unable to join the walk.
Our Guides:
Our experienced, qualified leaders are skilled in navigation, first aid, and outdoor leadership. Each route is carefully planned to match the advertised grade, ensuring a safe, supportive, and enjoyable experience. Additional Information: Dogs are not permitted on our walks. Adventure Women UK is an all-female activity group, and participants must be over 18.
Walk Grades: For details on walk difficulty levels, visit the Walk Grades Section at[ https://adventurewomen.co.uk/walk-grades-1](https://adventurewomen.co.uk/walk-grades-1)
Important Note: By RSVPing “Yes” to any event, you agree to the group’s terms and conditions. For more details, visit: https://adventurewomen.co.uk/ts%26cs
Outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including slips, trips, falls, drowning, exposure to extreme weather, equipment failure, and medical emergencies, which can result in serious injury or death. By participating, you voluntarily assume all such risks. For more details, visit: https://adventurewomen.co.uk/ts%26cs

Surrey Hills Hike: Box Hill & Headley Circular -16.5km - Grade 3/5 - Challenging