
Stepping Stones River Mole
Historic stepping stones crossing the River Mole in Dorking, offering scenic woodland walks and panoramic views from Box Hill.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Stepping Stones River Mole
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic stepping stones crossing the River Mole in Dorking, offering scenic woodland walks and panoramic views from Box Hill.
"A charming, family-friendly spot with historic stones and beautiful walks."

👟 Wear Water Shoes
Pebbly riverbed! Water shoes are recommended if you plan to wade in the River Mole .
🚗 Early Bird Parking
Stepping Stones car park gets busy. Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Stepping Stones
River Mole
Cross the River Mole on these historic stones, a charming and slightly adventurous way to experience the natural beauty.

Woodland and Riverside Trails
Box Hill
Explore scenic hiking paths offering a mix of woodland, riverside views, and open countryside. Perfect for nature lovers.

Panoramic Views from Box Hill
Box Hill Summit
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Surrey Hills from the top of Box Hill, a rewarding sight after your walk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Stepping Stones
Parking and Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Water Shoes
Pebbly riverbed! Water shoes are recommended if you plan to wade in the River Mole.
🚗 Early Bird Parking
Stepping Stones car park gets busy. Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot.
⬆️ Steep Climb Warning
The walk up from the stepping stones to Box Hill summit is steep. Take it slow!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Great spot for dogs! Plenty of space to explore and paddle safely in the River Mole.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Water Shoes
Pebbly riverbed! Water shoes are recommended if you plan to wade in the River Mole.
🚗 Early Bird Parking
Stepping Stones car park gets busy. Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot.
⬆️ Steep Climb Warning
The walk up from the stepping stones to Box Hill summit is steep. Take it slow!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Great spot for dogs! Plenty of space to explore and paddle safely in the River Mole.
📸 Capture the Moment
The stepping stones offer unique photo opportunities, especially with leading lines.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Stepping Stones River Mole as a beautiful, family-friendly spot with charming historic stones and scenic walking trails. The natural beauty and opportunity to paddle in the river are highlights, though the steep climb back up from the river can be challenging for some.
"The stones were immersed in water due to high waters so we took the ramblers bridge about 5 minutes walk down and then the steep uphill steps to Boxhill. Lovely spot for walks and hike and some great nature scenes. Found free parking by Rykas Cafe. Additional free parking further up on zig zag road"
Akh Owase (Man-of-Sorts)
"It’s a lovely, family-friendly spot with clean, flowing water. The riverbed is pebbly, so it’s a good idea to wear shoes if you plan to wade in. There are some beautiful short and long hiking trails leads to the stepping stones but if you’re just after the water and stepping-stones experience, it’s easier to park at the Stepping Stones car park. The hill from the main trail is quite steep, and the climb back up can be a bit tough for little ones."
Pragya S
"Lovely Walk at Stepping Stones, Surrey
The Stepping Stones walk in Surrey is a beautiful spot for a peaceful stroll, especially if you have a dog. The trail offers a mix of riverside paths, woodland, and open views, making it varied and interesting without being too challenging. The iconic stepping stones across the River Mole are a highlight — they give the walk a unique charm and make for great photos.
It’s well-maintained, and there are plenty of places for dogs to explore and paddle safely in the water. Parking is nearby, though it can get busy on weekends, so an early start is recommended.
Overall, it’s an ideal walk for both dog owners and anyone looking for fresh air, scenic views, and a bit of tranquility in the Surrey countryside."
SCC
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Stepping Stones by car, parking at the dedicated Stepping Stones car park or the National Trust car park at Box Hill summit. Alternatively, take a train to Box Hill & Westhumble station, followed by a walk. Be aware that the walk from the station to the stones can involve steep sections.
Yes, there's a dedicated Stepping Stones car park. It's a convenient option but can get crowded on weekends. Parking at Box Hill summit is also available, often with more space but a longer walk down to the stones.
Yes, you can take a train to Box Hill & Westhumble station. From there, it's a walk to the stepping stones. Some users note the walk can be challenging, especially if you're not used to inclines.
The walk down from Box Hill summit is scenic but can be steep and tiring, especially the climb back up. It offers beautiful views along the way.
The walk can be challenging due to steep inclines, particularly the climb back up from the river. It's advisable to assess your fitness level or opt for a less strenuous route if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Stepping Stones and the surrounding walking areas is generally free. However, parking at the National Trust car park at Box Hill summit requires payment unless you are a member.
The Stepping Stones are a natural feature and are accessible at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee for the Stepping Stones themselves. Parking fees may apply at designated car parks.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and lack of lighting. Some users have mentioned nighttime hikes, but caution is advised.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but it's important to respect the natural environment and follow any signage. During periods of heavy rain, crossing the stones might be unsafe.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
It's a beautiful, family-friendly walk with a mix of riverside paths, woodland, and open views. The highlight is crossing the River Mole via the iconic stepping stones.
Generally yes, but after heavy rain, the river can flow quickly. It's advisable to check conditions. Children might need to jump between stones, and it's not deep if you fall in.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. If you plan to wade, water shoes are highly recommended due to the pebbly riverbed.
While some visitors dip their feet in the cool waters, swimming is not officially advised. The river depth can vary, and currents can be strong.
Visitor facilities like cafes and toilets are available at the top of Box Hill summit, but not directly at the stepping stones themselves.
📸 📸 Photography
The stepping stones themselves create fantastic leading lines. The surrounding woodland and riverside offer picturesque backdrops, especially during misty mornings.
Early mornings can offer atmospheric misty conditions, while afternoons provide good light for general scenic shots. Golden hour can also be beautiful.
Drone usage may be restricted in National Trust areas. It's best to check the specific regulations for Box Hill before flying a drone.
Experiment with different angles to capture the scale of the stones and the flow of the river. Consider including people to add a sense of adventure.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the landscape. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
🚶 Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of the Stepping Stones
During World War II, the stones were removed as a wartime precaution, a testament to their importance and the era's anxieties. Fortunately, they were carefully reinstated in 1946 by Clement Attlee, the then-serving Prime Minister, symbolizing a return to normalcy and the preservation of cherished local landmarks. This act highlights the cultural value placed on these simple stones, connecting past and present visitors to a piece of British history.
Navigating the Box Hill Trails
For those heading to the summit, be prepared for a significant climb. The paths can be steep, and some sections are exposed chalky ground that can become slippery when wet or worn smooth by foot traffic. However, the reward is the stunning panoramic views from the top, which encompass the rolling Surrey Hills. Comprehensive visitor facilities, including a cafe and toilets, are available at the summit, making it a good place to rest before or after your exploration.
Experiencing the River Mole
While the river provides a serene backdrop, it's important to be mindful of its flow. After periods of heavy rain, the River Mole can become faster and deeper, potentially making the stepping stones unsafe to cross. In such conditions, an alternative crossing point via a bridge downstream is usually available. The gentle flow of the river, however, contributes significantly to the peaceful ambiance of this natural gem.





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