The Surrey hills and woods, 22km

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

Transport and cost (train):
The 7:41am direct train from London Victoria reaches Holmwood station at 8:47am. The journey takes 1hr 6min. As of 22 February 2026, an Off Peak Day Return costs £18.10.

Please do your own research.
You can reduce the train cost by one third with a Network Railcard, where applicable.
You could also coordinate with other participants and buy a group saver ticket.

Hike description:
We commence the hike from the village of Holmwood and head into the Surrey Hills National Landscape, which 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.

We will enjoy the views from the summits of several hills along the way, the first of which will be popular 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 will continue through the woods and hills to complete the loop to Holmwood.

Start time: 8:50am

Start location: Holmwood station (my mobile: 07951673142)

End location: Holmwood station

Length: 22km

Ascent: 575m

Time: approx 7-9hrs. 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 moderate pace; we will not be zooming along in a mad rush. The aim is to enjoy the outdoors and have a fun, friendly day. This is a tough hike over a long distance with several hills and considerable ascent. It is not suitable for beginners. You will need to be fit and experienced.

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.