Surrey hills, woods, vineyard, 23km

The Surrey landscape was one of the first to be designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The hills stretch across a quarter of the county of Surrey. The area is rich in wildlife, woodland and attractive market towns and villages.

Our hike will take us past Leith Hill Place, the childhood home of one of England's greatest composers, Ralph Vaughan Williams. Once we pass through Rhododendron Wood we’ll summit Leith Hill, the highest point on the Greensand Ridge and, at 294m, the second highest point in southeast England. It is a popular picnic spot, with benches where you can relax and soak up the panoramic views. On the summit there is an 18th century Gothic tower.

We’ll continue onwards to finally reach Denbies Wine Estate, one of England’s largest single estate vineyards with 265 acres under vine and a production capacity of one million bottles. Skip along the stepping stones over the River Mole nearby at the base of Box Hill. The hike ends at Box Hill and Westhumble station.

Cost: £4 organiser fee payable on RSVP

Start time: 9:50am

Start location: Holmwood station (my mobile: 07951673142)

End location: Box Hill and Westhumble station

Length: 23km

Ascent: 473m

Time: approx 7hrs. It’s not possible to guarantee what time we'll finish as it depends on the weather, pace of the group and our breaks along the way.

Pace & Difficulty: a reasonable and moderate pace; we will not zoom along in a mad rush. There will be breaks. The aim is to enjoy being outdoors in nature and have a fun, friendly day. This is a lengthy hike with considerable ascent along the way so you need to be fit.

Transport (train): The 8:41am direct train from London Victoria reaches Holmwood station at 9:47am. Check the trains before travel. You could coordinate with other participants and buy a group saver ticket.

Transport (car): If you're driving, there is free parking on the side streets close to Holmwood station. This is a linear hike that ends at Box Hill and Westhumble station - so you willl need to take the train back to Holmwood station to return to your car.

What to bring:
Check the weather and bring appropriate gear. A comfortable backpack, waterproof jacket, sufficient food, snacks, and water along with suitable socks and footwear (waterproof hiking boots) are some essentials. Walkways and trails can be steep, muddy, and slippery and boots with ankle support will be useful, as well as hiking poles. Gaitors are handy when its muddy and wet. Carrying waterproof socks in your backpack is a good idea in case your boots get wet from the inside. Don't wear inappropriate clothing such as jeans and sneakers. Remember to carry any medication you may require. If it’s sunny, don’t forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen!

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER / TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
By participating, you confirm you have read, understood and accepted the below, including the full Terms and Conditions
I am NOT a qualified hike leader or first aider.
Hiking, walking, and hill walking carry the risk of personal injury and death. Participants must be aware of, and accept, the risks. Participants are responsible for their own safety and actions and agree not to hold me responsible or liable for any injury (or death), damage or losses incurred either directly or indirectly from their participation in group events. This group is for people 18 years old and over.