
Box Hill Surrey
Iconic Surrey hill offering breathtaking views, diverse walking trails, and family-friendly nature play.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Box Hill Surrey
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Surrey hill offering breathtaking views, diverse walking trails, and family-friendly nature play.
"A sanctuary of natural beauty, offering breathtaking views and serene trails for all adventurers."

👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Trails can be steep and uneven; trainers are recommended for most walks .
💧 Bring plenty of water
Especially for longer walks, as hydration is key on the hills.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Zig Zag Road & Stepping Stones
Base of the hill
Iconic walk with a steep descent to charming stepping stones, a popular photo spot.

Panoramic Views from the Summit
Top of Box Hill
Sweeping vistas of the Surrey Hills and surrounding countryside. Perfect for a picnic.

Nature Play Trail
Woodlands
An engaging trail for children with natural play features and dens.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Getting There & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Trails can be steep and uneven; trainers are recommended for most walks.
💧 Bring plenty of water
Especially for longer walks, as hydration is key on the hills.
👨👩👧👦 Family-friendly trails
The Nature Play Trail is a hit with kids!
🚗 Parking availability
National Trust car park fills up; arrive early or late on busy days.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Trails can be steep and uneven; trainers are recommended for most walks.
💧 Bring plenty of water
Especially for longer walks, as hydration is key on the hills.
👨👩👧👦 Family-friendly trails
The Nature Play Trail is a hit with kids!
🚗 Parking availability
National Trust car park fills up; arrive early or late on busy days.
📍 Use the National Trust signs
Follow signs for the zig-zag road and trails for clear navigation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Box Hill's breathtaking views and diverse walking trails, making it a favorite for nature lovers and families alike. While the steepness of some paths can be challenging, the accessible facilities and engaging Nature Play Trail ensure a rewarding experience for all.
"I love this place as it's 30 minute drive for me. A good place to enjoy nature, trails and good food options within 5 minutes walk. Plenty of parking available, and kids can enjoy the place as they have Children specific Trails too with few nature activities that my child enjoys! Definitely one of my favourite place in the UK."
Harshul Singhal
"Went hiking with my friends. Got the route from strava with a restaurant on the way. Grab some beers and it's a moderate hike from the bottom. You can even grab some wine from denbies and continue your walk up to the top. Its one of the most beautiful hikes in surrey."
Rhys Rahman
"Great views, National Trust car park saves a hike up the hill (cost is free for National Trust members, prices on attached photos for non-members); follow the NT sign up the zig zag Road. We did the stepping stone walk on a warm but mercifully not sunny day in August. It was doable in comfy trainers although it did involve a very steep descent down the steps from the car park to the stepping stones and then we followed the path along the river (although you can't actually see the river) back to the village where the zig zag road starts going up the hill. The path back up the hill starts just to the left of the hotel on the roundabout and is very steep, so you need to be fully mobile and relatively fit to get up there. It looked very slippery for those coming down that way as it was just a gravel path on a steep hill, not steps like going down to the stepping stones.
We did the whole walk slowly with a 4 year old who definitely needed carrying for the steepest parts and with a few stops to catch out breath and have a snack it took us approx 2 hours. It was a nice walk but we didn't realise how steep the slopes would be and wished we had taken more water!"
Jim K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take direct trains from London Waterloo to Box Hill and Westhumble station, which takes about 47 minutes. Alternatively, trains from London Victoria are also available. If driving, the National Trust car park is at the top of the hill.
Yes, Box Hill is well-served by public transport. The 465 bus route from Kingston also travels through Box Hill. Trains to Box Hill and Westhumble station are frequent from London.
For walking, taking the train to Box Hill and Westhumble station is ideal. From there, you can start your walk up the hill or explore the surrounding trails. Many Redditors suggest starting from the village and hiking up.
Yes, there is a National Trust car park at the top of Box Hill. It's free for National Trust members, and there's a fee for non-members. It can get busy, so arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! Box Hill is a popular destination for cyclists, with many routes through the Surrey Hills. E-biking is also a great option for exploring the countryside.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Box Hill itself is a natural landscape and generally free to enter. However, parking at the National Trust car park has a fee unless you are a National Trust member.
Box Hill is an open natural space, so it's accessible at all times. The National Trust car park and facilities like the cafe will have specific operating hours.
The walking trails at Box Hill are free to access. The main cost associated with visiting is parking if you are driving and not a National Trust member.
Yes, National Trust members get free parking at the Box Hill car park, which can be a significant saving if you plan to visit multiple National Trust sites.
Parking at Box Hill is typically on a first-come, first-served basis. There isn't an option to book parking in advance, so early arrival is advised on busy days.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular routes include the zig-zag road walk, the stepping stones trail, and the Nature Play Trail for families. Many visitors use apps like Strava to find routes.
Yes, Box Hill is very family-friendly. The Nature Play Trail offers interactive elements for kids, and shorter, less strenuous routes are available. Some parts can be steep, so carrying younger children might be necessary.
At the top of Box Hill, you'll find a cafe, a gift shop, and toilets. There are also picnic areas and ample parking.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Box Hill. It's a great place for them to explore, and many visitors bring their pets along for hikes.
Box Hill is a haven for wildlife, including various bird species, butterflies, and woodland creatures. The diverse habitats support a rich ecosystem.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a cafe at the top of Box Hill offering refreshments and light meals. For more substantial meals, pubs like The Watermill Dorking and hotels such as the Burford Bridge Hotel are nearby.
Absolutely! There are designated picnic areas, and many visitors enjoy bringing their own food to enjoy amidst the scenic views. It's a perfect spot for a packed lunch.
Nearby options include country pubs and gastropubs like The Watermill Dorking, which offers stunning views. The Burford Bridge Hotel is also close by and serves Sunday roasts.
Yes, there is a cafe located at the summit of Box Hill, providing convenient access to food and drinks for visitors.
The Burford Bridge Hotel, located near Box Hill, is recommended for its Sunday roast with generous portions.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic viewpoints at the summit, the iconic stepping stones, and the winding zig-zag road offer fantastic photo opportunities. The changing seasons also provide beautiful backdrops.
Early mornings and late afternoons, especially during the golden hours, provide the best light for photography. The soft light enhances the natural beauty of the landscape.
The stepping stones are a very popular and picturesque spot. The summit views are also a must-capture, especially with the rolling hills stretching out before you.
Drone usage is generally restricted in National Trust properties to protect wildlife and the visitor experience. It's best to check the specific National Trust guidelines for Box Hill before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A standard zoom lens is versatile for various shots. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers & Walkers
🚴 Cyclists
🌳 Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Box Hill
When planning your walk, it's important to be aware of the terrain. The descent to the stepping stones involves steep steps, and the path back up the hill can be very steep and slippery, especially in wet conditions. Comfortable trainers are recommended for most walks, and carrying sufficient water is crucial, particularly on longer or more strenuous routes. The National Trust provides signage to guide visitors along the main paths, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Box Hill's Appeal for Cyclists
For those who prefer a more relaxed pace or need assistance with the inclines, e-biking is also a fantastic option for exploring Box Hill and the surrounding British countryside. The varied terrain means there are routes suitable for different cycling abilities, from leisurely rides to more demanding endurance challenges. Many cyclists appreciate the opportunity to combine their ride with a stop at a local pub or cafe, making for a complete day out.
Family Adventures at Box Hill
Beyond the dedicated play trail, the wider area offers gentle walks suitable for families. While some paths can be steep, many are manageable for children, though carrying younger ones might be necessary on steeper sections. The presence of a cafe and picnic areas at the top makes it easy to refuel and rest. The overall experience at Box Hill provides a wonderful opportunity for families to connect with nature and create lasting memories.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit