Surrey Hills National Landscape is less than a two-hour drive and train journey away from London and is described as offering “jaw-dropping” views.
The area of outstanding natural beauty is protected for the purpose of nature and to allow people to visit all year round.
The landscape is said to be the perfect place to visit for walking, cycling, an adventure, or even just to reconnect with nature.
@a.curious.way Edit: The Surrey Hills landscape helped inspire Narnia. There was also mainly Northern Ireland and Oxfordshire ☺️ Once part of a Norman hunting ground, Banstead Woods hides centuries of history beneath its canopy. These ancient woodlands are perfect for a peaceful wander among bluebells in spring or spotting hidden sculptures like the Narnia carvings. A reminder that magic and heritage often go hand in hand. #BansteadWoods #HiddenUKWalks #EnglishWoodlands #SpringWander #bluebells ♬ Pan´s Labyrinth Lullaby – Moomietroll
It’s also believed that the area inspired C. S. Lewis to write the Narnia Chronicles as he grew up often taking walks in the landscape.
Find out more information via the Surrey Hills National Landscape website.
The gorgeous walking route near London you have to visit
On its website, Surrey Hills shares that guests can enjoy everything the “beautiful landscape has to offer, from walking to wellness to unique artisanal experiences.”
The national landscape has set out walking trails all promising “breathtaking” views, including walks dedicated to wildlife and the arts.
They also offer the “Surrey Hills Easier Routes”, which are two-mile-long trails that have been made to be accessible for everyone, with the routes being mostly flat and without stiles.
One popular walk in Surrey Hills is the Leith Hill Greenway, a nine-mile route that links Box Hill with Leith Hill and is described as “providing the very best Surrey Hills experience.”
The walk allows you to see the hillside and views of Box Hill, including one of the UK’s largest vineyards and the tower on the top of Leith Hill, along with views towards London.
Along with walking routes and beautiful nature, Surrey Hills is also home to several rural businesses including crafts and produce.
@zannavandijk 📍The Box Hill Circular 🥾 If you’re looking for a slightly more challenging hike which you can access via a train from London, give this one a go! It ticks all the boxes – spicy hills, stunning views & cosy pubs along the way! ✅ Tag your hiking buddies & hit save so you can do this hike later! Here’s the details: 🥾 Distance: 12km ⛰️ Elevation: 550m 🕰️ Duration: 3-4 hours (longer with a pub stop!) 🚗 Parking: Box Hill car park which is national trust & costs £6 for a day (you can use the PayByPhone app). 🚂 Public transport: The nearest train station is Box Hill & Westhumble, if you walk from there to join the trail it adds about 1km, a sweaty stair climb and some gorgeous stepping stones. 🍽️ Pubs: Theres lots of options along the way! My favourite is the Running Horses, great for a Sunday roast. Others include the King Henry and the Stepping Stones. There’s also a national trust cafe & ice cream shop next to the car park. 🗺️ Map: I’ll link it on my IG stories & it will be saved in a highlight! ♥️ #londonhikes #hikelondon #surreyhikes #surreyhills #surreylife #surreyblogger ♬ original sound – A – A🌃
One business in the area is Mooh! Ice Cream, which serves up a range of “delicious ice cream, sorbets, macarons, brownies, and more.”
You can also grab a coffee from The Goatbox, a mobile coffee trailer that was once used to transport goats and now produces locally roasted coffee beans and drinks.
On Google Reviews, Surrey Hills National Landscape has an impressive 4.7/5 rating from more than 15,000 reviews.
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One recent guest shared: “The trail offers breathtaking views of nature, a unique opportunity to connect with nature, breathe fresh air, and appreciate the beauty of the outdoors.”
Another guest said: “Absolutely outstanding place for a weekend short trip.
“Family friendly, couples, pet friendly, it’s a good and clean place to walk.”
