Box Hill & the River Mole - 9 Mile Hike in beautiful Surrey

Join us as we head along the North Downs Way to Box Hill, within the Surrey Hills designated Area of Natural Beauty. We take the stepping stones over the river before making our way through woodland to Salomons platform on Box Hill. The views are lovely and continue through the day as we walk over Mickleham Down before circling back along the pretty River Mole.

Box Hill is named after the rare box woodland found on its slopes and is part of one of the first land purchases ever made by the National Trust, the first acquisition by Sir Robert Hunter was at a cost of £16,000 in 1910. Other parts were bought later and some were gifted by Mr Leopold Salomons whose viewing platform we visit on the first part of the hike.

This trip has it all with hills, valleys, woods and beautiful open space. The way home after lunch is an easy paced meander and of course we will be booked in for dinner (or just a drink if you prefer) in a nice pub at the end of the hike. - the pub is highly recommended but optional if you need to get away.

Explorer UK is a friendly and sociable group and many people come on their own or just bring a friend along, all are made welcome.

In more detail:

Meet at 10.00am at London Waterloo Railway Station. Tom will be stood by the ticket office inside the building and will be easily visible wearing his Explorer UK green hoodie.

Things To Bring:

Picnic lunch, water, suitable shoes and clothing including waterproof, your camera, some money for food and drink if you would like to stop in the pub at the end.

Cost:

The Trip Cost for your guided day hike is £5 - this does not include your train fare which at full price will be £14.10 on an off peak day return from London Waterloo to Box Hill and Westhumble. Many people have rail cards which bring the ticket cost down but you will also group together with fellow Explorers at the station and should buy group saver tickets at a third off the full price (therefore approx £10).

The trip cost is non refundable.

RISK NOTICE:

Please note there are risks associated with all outdoor activity, this is a nine mile hike and although we are not one of the fast groups we ask that you are reasonably fit and have suitable clothing and footwear for the walk. The terrain may be uneven or slippery and therefore fashion boots, shoes or boots with heels, smooth leather soles, fashion trainers or plimsoles are NOT suitable. (This list is not exhaustive). You should be capable of walking at 2.5 miles per hour and in general seek to stay with the main group. Also please avoid doing anything that would put you or other members of the group in danger. If you have a pre-existing medical condition please seek appropriate medical advice before joining and ensure you have brought any personal medication. If bringing a guest please ensure that they have read this notice and walk description before they agree to come. This walk is not suitable for children or pet dogs.

I will post a weather forecast the evening before

Hope you can come

Best wishes

Tom