View north across the Devils Punch Bowl
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Devil's Punch Bowl and Hindhead Commons

4.6
·3k reviews·, United Kingdom

Discover breathtaking views and scenic trails at Devil's Punch Bowl and Hindhead Commons, a natural gem in Surrey.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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View north across the Devils Punch Bowl

Devil's Punch Bowl and Hindhead Commons

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover breathtaking views and scenic trails at Devil's Punch Bowl and Hindhead Commons, a natural gem in Surrey.

4.6
(3k reviews)

"Amazing place to visit with stunning views, we even saw wild ponies."

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TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walkers' Paradise

Miles of trails for all levels. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water for longer hikes. :athletic_shoe:

🚗 NT Member Parking

National Trust members enjoy free parking. Scan your card at the car park. :car:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Devil's Punch Bowl

The Devil's Punch Bowl

Central viewpoint

A dramatic natural amphitheater with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Hindhead Commons Trails

Hindhead Commons Trails

Various paths

Explore miles of scenic walking and cycling routes through heathland and woodland.

Wild Ponies

Wild Ponies

Across the commons

Keep an eye out for the charming wild ponies grazing freely across the landscape.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Views & Trails

Discover stunning vistas and diverse walking paths at Devil's Punch Bowl and Hindhead Commons. Perfect for a day out with family or friends, offering beautiful scenery and fresh air. Free parking for National Trust members.

Cafe & Facilities Check

Enjoy a bite at the on-site cafe serving local ingredients. Facilities include clean toilets and picnic benches. Ideal for a relaxed visit after exploring the natural beauty.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden light on foliage
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, family fun
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkers' Paradise

Miles of trails for all levels. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water for longer hikes. :athletic_shoe:

🚗 NT Member Parking

National Trust members enjoy free parking. Scan your card at the car park. :car:

☕ Cafe Delights

Try the cafe for local ingredients and refreshments. Great spot to refuel. :coffee:

🐎 Spot Wild Ponies

Look out for the resident wild ponies grazing. Keep a respectful distance. :horse:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walkers' Paradise

Miles of trails for all levels. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water for longer hikes. :athletic_shoe:

🚗 NT Member Parking

National Trust members enjoy free parking. Scan your card at the car park. :car:

☕ Cafe Delights

Try the cafe for local ingredients and refreshments. Great spot to refuel. :coffee:

🐎 Spot Wild Ponies

Look out for the resident wild ponies grazing. Keep a respectful distance. :horse:

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun

Kids love the Easter trails and archery games. Plenty of space to run around. :child:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the stunning natural beauty and panoramic views of Devil's Punch Bowl and Hindhead Commons. The well-maintained walking trails, convenient cafe, and good facilities are frequently highlighted as positives. Many appreciate the easy accessibility and ample parking, especially for National Trust members.

"Great place to walk / cycle with beautiful views.
Lovely cafe and clean toilets on site.
Large car park, which as a NT member is free, once you have scanned your membership card.
We came for the Easter trail, which was good fun. The children were delighted to see archery set up and my son especially, spent a long time playing there and making friends."

Emma

"Lovely scenery and walks. Good facilities and parking. Free for NT members."

Andy Mayes

"The Devils Punch Bowl & Hindhead Commons are worth visiting. You have Beauty, History and even folklore. no matter how many visitors you will find peace within. its a beautiful part of Surrey within the beautiful Surrey Hills"

Terry Duhig

What People Like

Beautiful scenery and views
Great walking trails
Convenient cafe and facilities

What People Dislike

Parking fees for non-members

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The site is easily accessible by car, located off the A3 near Hindhead. There's a large car park available. For public transport, check local bus routes as services can be infrequent. Reddit

Yes, there is a large car park on site. It's free for National Trust members upon scanning their card. Non-members will need to pay for parking. Reddit

Absolutely! Hindhead Commons offers numerous cycling routes, making it a popular spot for cyclists. Enjoy the scenic paths. Reddit

While some main paths are accessible, the terrain can be uneven in places. It's best to check with the National Trust for specific accessibility information for the main viewpoints and trails. Reddit

The nearest train stations are Haslemere and Farnham, both of which require onward travel by bus or taxi to reach Hindhead. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the natural landscape itself is free. However, parking charges apply for non-National Trust members. Reddit

Yes, National Trust members receive free parking at the Devil's Punch Bowl and Hindhead Commons car park when they scan their membership card. Reddit

The natural landscape is open year-round during daylight hours. The cafe and facilities have specific operating times, which are best checked on the National Trust website. Reddit

The National Trust often hosts seasonal events, such as Easter trails or guided walks. Check their website for upcoming events. Reddit

Yes, there are picnic benches available, and you're welcome to bring your own food to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main attraction is the dramatic Devil's Punch Bowl, a large natural amphitheater offering stunning views. You'll also find diverse walking trails and potentially see wild ponies. Reddit

Yes, there are various trails suitable for families, including some with activities for children like soft archery and games. The Easter trail was a hit with kids. Reddit

Many visitors report seeing wild ponies grazing on the commons, adding a special element to the visit. Reddit

You'll find a cafe serving local ingredients, clean toilets, picnic benches, and sometimes games for children. Reddit

With its stunning natural beauty and panoramic views, Devil's Punch Bowl and Hindhead Commons are excellent for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a National Trust cafe on site that showcases local ingredients. It's a convenient place to grab refreshments. Reddit

The cafe typically offers a range of light meals, snacks, and drinks, often featuring locally sourced produce. Reddit

Absolutely! There are picnic benches available, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a packed lunch with a view. Reddit

While specific menus vary, National Trust cafes usually offer vegetarian and sometimes vegan options. It's advisable to check their current menu. Reddit

Prices are generally in line with typical cafe charges at National Trust properties. It's a good option for convenience, but bringing your own picnic can be more budget-friendly. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The main viewpoint overlooking the Punch Bowl offers iconic panoramic shots. Explore the trails for varied perspectives of the heathland and woodland. Reddit

Golden hours, just after sunrise and before sunset, provide beautiful light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but still offers great views. Reddit

Yes, but always maintain a safe and respectful distance. Avoid disturbing them. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife, like the ponies. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. For commercial or professional shoots, it's best to contact the National Trust in advance. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Devil's Punch Bowl and Hindhead Commons is a fantastic destination for families. The open spaces are perfect for children to explore and burn off energy. Look out for special events like Easter trails, which are always a hit. Reddit The cafe offers a convenient spot for snacks and meals, and the availability of clean toilets is a major plus for parents. Don't miss the chance for kids to try out activities like soft archery. Reddit

Key recommendations: Pack a picnic to enjoy on the benches, bring a ball for games, and keep an eye out for the wild ponies – a guaranteed thrill for little ones. The varied walking trails mean you can choose a route that suits your children's stamina. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkers and Hikers

For those who love to walk, Devil's Punch Bowl and Hindhead Commons offer a diverse range of trails. You can opt for a leisurely stroll to the main viewpoint or embark on longer, more challenging hikes across the heathland and through woodlands. Reddit The scenery is consistently beautiful, providing rewarding views throughout your trek. Remember to check the weather and wear appropriate footwear, as some paths can be uneven. Reddit

Don't miss: Exploring the less-trafficked paths for a more secluded experience and enjoying the panoramic vistas from various points along the trails. The opportunity to spot wildlife, including wild ponies, adds to the appeal for nature enthusiasts. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find plenty to capture at Devil's Punch Bowl and Hindhead Commons. The dramatic landscape of the Punch Bowl itself offers stunning panoramic shots, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Reddit The heathland and woodland provide varied backdrops, and the chance to photograph wild ponies adds a unique wildlife element to your portfolio. Reddit

Tips for photographers: Bring a wide-angle lens for the expansive views and a telephoto lens if you hope to capture wildlife. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, which can add drama to your shots. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails

Devil's Punch Bowl and Hindhead Commons offer a network of trails catering to all abilities. From gentle strolls around the main viewpoint to more challenging hikes across the heathland, there's something for everyone. Many paths are well-maintained, making them suitable for families with young children and even pushchairs in some areas. Cyclists will also find dedicated routes to enjoy the expansive landscape. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, especially if venturing onto less-trodden paths. Reddit

Visitors often highlight the variety of scenery, from open heath to dense woodland. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including the resident wild ponies that roam freely across the commons. These trails provide a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Surrey Hills. Reddit

The Legend of the Devil's Punch Bowl

The dramatic landscape of the Devil's Punch Bowl is steeped in local folklore. Legend has it that the Devil himself scooped out the enormous bowl to create a shortcut to London, but was startled by a cock crowing and dropped the earth he was carrying, forming the nearby hills. This mythical origin adds an intriguing layer to the already impressive natural formation. Reddit

Beyond the folklore, the Punch Bowl is a significant geological feature, a large natural amphitheater carved by erosion over millennia. Its sheer scale and the panoramic views it offers are truly awe-inspiring, making it a must-see for any visitor. The surrounding Hindhead Commons area also holds historical significance, having been a vital stopping point for travelers for centuries. Reddit

Family Fun and Activities

Devil's Punch Bowl and Hindhead Commons are a hit with families. The National Trust often organizes special events, such as Easter trails, which are a great way to engage children with the outdoors. Reddit Beyond organized events, the open spaces provide ample room for kids to run and play. Activities like soft archery and bean bag games have been noted as particular favorites, ensuring a fun-filled day for younger visitors. Reddit

The on-site cafe and clean facilities add to the family-friendly appeal, making it easy to manage a day out with children. The chance to see wild ponies also adds an element of excitement and wonder for kids, turning a simple walk into an adventure. Reddit

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