Welcome to Surrey – England

Box Hill, nestled in the heart of Surrey, England, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure amidst stunning natural landscapes. As one of the key locations for the Surrey Three Peaks Challenge, it offers a unique opportunity for hikers to explore its picturesque trails while conquering its peaks. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the allure of Box Hill, uncovering its hidden gems and providing valuable insights for those embarking on this exhilarating journey.

Discovering Box Hill: A Natural Wonder

A Brief Overview

Situated just a stone’s throw away from Dorking, Box Hill stands tall as an iconic landmark in the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). With its rolling hills, dense woodlands, and panoramic views, it’s no wonder that this area attracts outdoor enthusiasts from far and wide.

Trails and Terrain

Box Hill boasts an extensive network of trails catering to hikers of all skill levels. From leisurely strolls along the valley floor to challenging ascents up its peaks, there’s something for everyone here. The famous Box Hill Zig Zag Road presents a thrilling challenge for cyclists and motorists alike, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn.

Wildlife and Conservation

Beyond its scenic beauty, Box Hill is also a haven for wildlife, with rare species such as the Adonis blue butterfly and the Dartford warbler calling it home. Conservation efforts play a vital role in preserving the delicate ecosystem of this area, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy its natural splendour.

Conquering the Three Peaks Challenge

Overview of the Challenge

The Surrey Three Peaks Challenge takes participants on a journey across three of Surrey’s highest points: Leith Hill, Holmbury Hill, and, of course, Box Hill. Covering a distance of approximately 20 miles, this gruelling trek tests both physical endurance and mental fortitude.

Preparing for the Challenge

Proper preparation is essential for tackling the Surrey Three Peaks Challenge. From training effectively to ensuring you have the right gear, every aspect must be carefully considered to maximize your chances of success. Additionally, familiarizing yourself with the route and its challenges can help alleviate any potential hurdles along the way.

Navigating Box Hill

As the second peak in the challenge, Box Hill presents its own set of unique obstacles. Its steep gradients and rugged terrain demand concentration and determination from hikers. However, the sense of accomplishment upon reaching its summit is unparalleled, offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside as a reward for your efforts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Surrey Three Peaks Challenge at Box Hill is a thrilling adventure that showcases the natural beauty and rugged charm of the Surrey Hills. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a novice explorer, this iconic trail promises an unforgettable experience amidst breathtaking scenery and unparalleled tranquillity.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to complete the Surrey Three Peaks Challenge?

• The completion time can vary depending on factors such as fitness level and weather conditions. On average, participants aim to finish within 8-10 hours.

2. Is the Surrey Three Peaks Challenge suitable for beginners?

• While the challenge is physically demanding, with proper preparation and training, beginners can certainly attempt it. It’s important to start with shorter hikes and gradually build up endurance.

3. Are there any guided tours available for the Surrey Three Peaks Challenge?

• Yes, several outdoor adventure companies offer guided tours for the Surrey Three Peaks Challenge, providing expert guidance and logistical support throughout the journey.

4. What is the best time of year to undertake the Surrey Three Peaks Challenge?

• The spring and summer months are generally ideal for hiking, offering milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. However, it’s essential to check weather forecasts and trail conditions before embarking on the challenge.

5. Are dogs allowed on the trails at Box Hill?

• Yes, dogs are welcome at Box Hill, but they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other visitors.

Situated very close to London, just 16 miles away, Surrey is a peaceful place, where you can admire not only the beautiful English countryside, but the historic attractions and the museums of the region. It’s actually a must-place to visit for a weekend.

A good idea is to start your amazing tour in Surrey from the London Bus Museum, where you can admire the beautiful collection of around 40 historic buses from London, from the first “Omnibus” till the buses of 1970’s. Most of them are presented in different galleries, according to their different eras.

Another great place to visit is the Royal Palace in region, which isn’t inhabited by the royals since the 18th century. The palace is situated in the beautiful countryside, with marvelous gardens around it and a great tennis court. The palace was built for Thomas Wolsey (cardinal) and later was the favorite place of King Henry VIII.

In the heart of Surrey there is the Denbie Wine Estate, which is the best place to visit if you want to know how the best wines in the region are made. It’s an estate of 265 acres of vines and you can learn all about the process of making the wine, you can even taste or buy the wine you prefer. Within the estate there are also two restaurants, where you can enjoy a great meal, accompanied with the best wine of the region.

If you like art, Watts Gallery is the greatest of it’s kind. Dedicated to the work of Victorian era sculptor and painter Frederic Watts, the gallery possess a great variety of portraits, sculptures and landscapes made by the famous British artist. You can also visit one of the temporary exhibitions that is taking place within the gallery. For the first time opened it’s doors to the public in April 1904, just before Watt’s death. The museum will open again his private studio in autumn 2015, which was closed for some time

You may also like to visit the Living Planet Center of VVWF and experience the wild life and find out how WWF protects the environment. Before you visit the center, you may also check it’s program, because throughout the year different kind of activities take place within the center.

If you have the time, you can also visit so many places in the region, such as the Painchill Park and enjoy a walk in the remaining examples of landscapes of 18th century in the country, or you may want to go to Brooklands Museum and see a unique variety from racing cars to aircrafts, or you can walk around the magical landscapes of Surrey.

Surrey is a county in southeastern England, but there’s far more to eat there than just fish and chips. Surrey has restaurants to suit all tastes and all budgets, from friendly pubs to five star restaurants, from traditional British cuisine to Italian and Indian cooking. There’s Mexican food in at Ariel’s in Working, Japanese food at Sushi Nara in Stained, Italian food at Q Verde in Kew and Caspar in Engle field Green, Nepali food at Garcia Durbar in Grayshott, Lebanese food at Mizzen in East Molise, and solid British food like steak and kidney pie or fish and chips almost anywhere in the county. Guilford is the county town, and has a wide variety of eateries.

The Onslow Arms is a gastro pub, noted for its seafood. CAU is famous for its steaks. Robin Hood is a small pub, whose specialty is steak and chips. Nero Kebab House has Turkish food. Olive – Restaurant Italian, AI Viola, Carlo’s Pretoria, and Positing feature Italian food. Turtle Bay has Caribbean cuisine. Meat the Greek has excellent kebabs. Barley Mow Thai Restaurant offers Thai food. Wokingham Iguanas offers food from several Latin American countries: Mexico, Argentina, and Brazil. Red Lion is a gastro pub.

The Plough features traditional British dishes, with the meat and vegetables locally sourced. Bombay Night offers Indian food. East GrinsteadThe Wire mill is an award-winning pub featuring fresh produce and meats from local farms. SuttonBrasserie Vacherie specializes in French cuisine. GodalmingThe Inn on the Lake features traditional pub food, like battered haddock and mushy peas. Flourier offers French food. Bell and the Dragon, located in a converted church, has a constantly changing menu, but an emphasis on traditional English cooking.

ChobhamLocated in a 16th century farmhouse, Stovall’s has a contemporary European menu. WeybridgeThe Hand and Spear features traditional British dishes. South Croydon Planet Spice offers such dishes as garlic chili macula, grilled duck, and prawn cooked with green chili peppers. EghamThe Tudor Room is very expensive. Sushi Hanna has both Japanese and Korean food. Golden Cafe serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but is especially praised for its breakfasts. ThursleyThe Three Horseshoes has beef short ribs braised in red wine and pork and leek sausages. Richmond upon Thames The Bingham is an elegant restaurant, the sort saved for special occasions. CranleighThe Barn at Alford was originally built in 1590. In addition to the roast lamb and fresh fish, there are several vegetarian dishes. ReigateThe New Garcia Kitchen offers Nepali food.