FREE HIKE - Legends of the Devil’s Punchbowl: A Haslemere Day Hike !

### A Whisper of Shadows

Beneath the ancient yews and shifting mists,
Trust once walked these hills —
Only to be turned by silent blades
Into a shadow on the path.
And at the Sailor’s Stone,
Where betrayal’s whisper still clings to the air,
His tale lingers — a reminder
That even in betrayal’s wake,
The spirit endures —
Each footfall a vow
That no darkness can steal the dawn.

Join us for a scenic and moderately challenging circular walk through Haslemere’s stunning landscapes, featuring panoramic views, rich history, and autumnal charm.

***

### 📍 Event Details

Meeting Point: Outside Haslemere Railway Station
🕥 Start Time: 11 AM
🔁 Route Type: Circular (loop back to Haslemere Station)
📏 Distance: ~14–15 miles approx.
⛰️ Grade: Moderate to Challenging (with a bit steep, rocky, and muddy sections)

***

### 🌄 Route Highlights

• Sweeping views from Gibbet Hill
• The Sailor’s Stone — a haunting memorial marking the tragic tale of an unknown sailor who was murdered on Hindhead Common in the 18th century, a story of betrayal still whispered among the trees
• The dramatic landscape of Devil’s Punchbowl
• Peaceful heathlands and farmland
• Historic St Bartholomew’s Church — rebuilt in 1871, featuring memorials and a stained-glass window of Alfred Lord Tennyson with Sir Galahad and the Holy Grail
• Potential wildlife and grazing livestock on Hindhead Common as part of conservation efforts

The Devil’s Punchbowl is a dramatic natural amphitheatre carved into the landscape of the Surrey Hills. Steeped in legend and mystery, it gets its name from folklore suggesting the Devil scooped out the earth in a fit of rage. Today, it's one of the most striking landforms in southern England — offering sweeping views across ancient woodland, heath, and deep valleys.
Once threatened by the A3 road, the area was restored after the Hindhead Tunnel opened, allowing nature to reclaim the land. It's now a haven for wildlife and a key part of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
From its eerie folklore to its conservation success story, the Devil’s Punchbowl is a place where history, myth, and nature meet — and it’s one of the major highlights of this walk.

***

### 📌 What to Bring:

• Proper hiking boots or shoes
• Lunch / Packed snacks, and at least 1.5L of water
• A cap/hat and sunscreen lotion
• Good vibes and your best hill-conquering attitude

***

### Important Notes:

Stay Together: Please stay with or behind the hike leader to maintain group pace and cohesion.
Rules: Please make sure to read the About Us section of the group before signing up for the events.
Safety Reminder: This is a voluntary activity, and participants are responsible for their own safety and for respecting fellow walkers, wildlife, and the environment. Please note that no risk or service is inferred or accepted by the organizer.

***

📱 For any issues, you can reach me via mobile/WhatsApp at 07830374629.