The Sailor's Stroll walk at Hindhead Commons
On this gentle walk to the summit at Gibbet Hill, with its fantastic views, you will learn about the barbarous murder of the unknown sailor. You will need to return to the café along the same route or if you are feeling energetic then why not continue your walk on the Hidden Hindhead Trail.
Map
Start:
Devil's Punch Bowl car park GU26 6AB
1
From the car park proceed north towards the white trig-point with the dark blue Sailors Stroll markers.
2
Follow these markers and soon you'll come to the old A3. It's now grassed over - can you imagine how noisy this place used to be? Cross over the old road to reach a paved road where you turn left and follow this in an easterly direction. En route discover the Sailor’s Stone and admire the views north across the Punch Bowl.
The Sailor's Stone
In 1786 a sailor was brutally murdered by three men whilst walking from London to the docks at Portsmouth. A stone was erected to mark the spot where he died. There is more information on the panel at the site.
3
Continue along the paved road to reach a gateway on your right. Pass through the gateway following the path over open ground to reach the summit of Gibbett Hill. Take a rest and enjoy the views; if the weather is fine, it's possible to spot the arch at Wembley Stadium and the towers of Canary Wharf.
4
The Celtic Cross at Gibbet Hill marks the spot where three rogues were hanged for the murder of a sailor on the Old Portsmouth Road. Gibbet Hill stands at 272 metres and is the second highest point in Surrey (Leith Hill being the highest).
5
For your return, retrace your outward stroll emerging back at the car park; head to the café for a light lunch, hot drink or snack.
End:
Devil's Punch Bowl car park GU26 6AB
