Box Hill
2 miles south of Leatherhead, 1 mile north of Dorking, off the A24. An outstanding area of woodland and chalk downland, long famous as a destination for day-trippers from London, but surprisingly extensive and with much to offer the rambler and naturalist. There are many beautiful walks and spectacular views towards the South Downs.On the summit there is an information centre, shop with plant sales, a servery for snacks and hot and cold drinks, and a fort dating from the 1890s (which is partly open to the public).
Box Hill is still a varied and attractive island of tranquillity where people can breathe fresh air and escape the pressures of life. The summit is usually busy but it is easy to 'get away from it all' by following the numerous networks of dry paths and bridle ways.
Ease of access is particularly important for less able visitors - the aptly named Zig Zag Road leads right up to the hill to the car park and viewpoint on the summit.
The views from the summit of Box Hill are truly breathtaking - a panorama over the Weald to the South Downs, some twenty miles away. Box Hill is situated within the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and provides a focal point and 'gateway' to the Surrey Hills for visitors. Not only are the views from the hill important, but also the fact that it is such a backdrop in the landscape itself, visible for many miles. The natural oak/beech woodland on the slopes offer deep shady bays for the visitors, whilst lower down the cathedral like yews give a warm, sheltered feel.
