Holmwood to Gomshall: Via Leith Tower Walk - Saturday 09 Mar 2024

Our Surrey Hills exploration will take us through picturesque woodland, heathland, and farmland. We will hike to Leith Hill - the second-highest peak in South-East England. Standing at Leith Hill is a majestic tower built in the 18th century, which is the highest point in South-East England.

The trails we've chosen will prove the significant landscape value of Surrey, which national importance has been officially recognised since 1958.

How to find us

Maria will be at the meeting point detailed in the section "Transport and Meeting Point" below. In case of difficulties locating her, you can call her on 07535295739.

Trip Highlights:

• Discover Surrey's Hills - Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
• Conquer Leith Hill - the highest peak of the area and second-highest in South-East England.
• See Leith Hill tower - an 18th century masterpiece and the highest point in South-East England
• Hike to Tilling Springs - where River Tillingbourne begins
• Discover the North Downs way and its stunning views towards Dorking
• Hike through England's largest vineyard - Denbies Wine Estate.

Photos - All photos were taken by the hike leader on previous trips, so are the actual views that you will see from the route that you'll be hiking.

Hike Description

We start off in Holmwood from where we head for Leith Hill and its famous gothic tower which stands at 329 meters. Our hike will take us across fields and woodlands before a strenuous ascent to Leith Hill. The summit is the highest of the Greensand Ridge and its tower is the highest point in south-east England.

Leith Hill will accommodate us for our lunch, as it's been a renowned spot for picnic since the 19th century. Afterwards, if we're feeling energetic, we will climb the 74 spiral steps of the 18th century tower of Leith Hill to its top, where through the telescope you can see the English Channel on a clear day. Many of London's landmarks could be seen with the naked eye, too.

After lunch, we descent Leith Hill to head north to Dorking via Greensand way. Much of the route passes ancient woods with amazing displays of colour. Greensand way will take us along paths which give unparalleled views across the Weald and towards the North Downs. The way passes through Tilling Springs - the source of River Tillingbourne which is 11 miles long and runs through several villages powering their mills along the way. From there, we will hike towards the hills up to the North Downs Way and pass by an old WWII pillbox. The path offers beautiful view points which overlook the valley towards Dorking.

Then, hiking through woodland for a while, the path comes to Ranmore Common and the beautiful church of St Barnabas, built in 1860. From the Church, we continue through Denbies Wine Estate - England’s largest vineyard. The way through the Vineyard rewards with excellent views towards Dorking and Boxhill. Our hike finishes with the picturesque market town of Dorking, located west from the Holmes dale hills range.

Food

We will stop during the hike for a snack lunch, so please bring food and drink. We will visit a pub after the hike where we can get refreshments.

Cost

The cost includes the guided hike and return train travel from the group departure station listed at the top of this event.

Price:

• Members: £24
• No Members: £31

IMPORTANT NOTE: To reserve a place, you must make the full payment, otherwise the reservation will not be accepted.

For any questions or more info ask to Maria: 07535 295 739 WhatsApp.

What to Bring

• Suitable hiking clothes & hiking footwear (ideally hiking boots) - Waterproof jacket, trousers, and footwear are recommended.
• Water (at least 1 and ideally 2 litres)
• Packed lunch/picnic
• Money for drinks and refreshments after the hike
• That's it! We will take care of train tickets, logistics on the day etc., so that you can just turn up and have a great day :-)

Dog

Dogs can use this trail as well, but must be on a leash.

Safety and Terms and Conditions

Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable, but we have a process to release your space for resale to another member. Please follow the instructions in our FAQ page and email us with your PayPal “invoice ID” immediately after you change your RSVP to “NO”.

By signing up to this event, you agree to the Terms and Conditions.

Photos & Video - All were taken by the hike leader on previous trips, so are the actual views that you will see from the route that you'll be hiking.