Haslemere and South Downs National Park, 18km

Cost: £4 organiser fee payable on RSVP
(Meetup charges me to maintain this group!)

Transport (train): The 9.00am direct train from London Waterloo reaches Haslemere (Surrey) at 9:53am. The journey takes 53min.

Transport cost (train): As of 7 January 2026, a Rail Sale Advance Single costs £10 each way (please do your own research). You can reduce the train cost by one third with a network railcard. You could coordinate with other participants and buy a group saver ticket.

Transport (car share): I'll be driving from Ealing, West London and have space for 4 passengers. Please contact me directly if you'd like to car share.

Hike description:
This circular hike starts from Haslemere, a historic and charming market town in south Surrey surrounded by picturesque countryside.

We'll make our way from the town onto the Black Down, the highest point in South Downs National Park. A landscape of grass, heather and pine trees awaits, where you can still get a true sense of 'wild' and timelessness. The ancient trails have been used by traders and shepherds for thousands of years and the stunning views have inspired many, including Tennyson. Its flanks have old flower-rich meadows, ancient woodland and copses.

Soak in the views and enjoy the tranquillity as we cross the hills and make our way back to town.

Start time: 10:00am

Start location: Haslemere (Surrey) station (my mobile: 07951673142)

Finish time: approx 5:00pm

End location: Haslemere (Surrey) station

Length: 18km

Ascent: 520m

Time: approx 6-7 hrs. It’s not possible to guarantee an exact end time as it depends on the weather, pace of the group, and our breaks along the way.

Pace and difficulty: relaxed - we will not be zooming along in a mad rush. The aim is to enjoy being outdoors in nature and have a fun, friendly day. This hike has quite a lot of ascent and you need to be fit. It may not be suitable for beginners.

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.