Mindful May in the Surrey Hills
Take some time out from the hustle and bustle of daily life with the practice of mindfulness this summer. Download a mindful sheet or find an event at a place near you and relax in the Surrey Hills countryside.
Outdoor yoga at Leith Hill Place
Sat 3 May, 7 Jun, 5 Jul, 2 Aug, 6 Sep, 4 Oct, 9.30-11am
Join experienced yoga instructor, Amanda for a relaxing yoga session on the south terrace at Leith Hill Place. No experience is necessary, everyone is welcome, just bring a mat, blanket and a drink. The sessions are free, but please book as spaces are limited.
Outdoor yoga at Box Hill
11 May - 21 Sep, every Sunday 9.30-10.30am
Enjoy relaxing and energising free yoga sessions in the wonderful surroundings of Box Hill. Everyone is welcome, all ages and abilities. No All sessions are led by a qualified local instructor. Booking not needed.
Free photography workshops at Leith Hill
Sun 4 & Sat 10 May, 10am-12pm
Join expert photography, Richard Knapp for a free outdoor photography workshop at Leith Hill.
Combining an opportunity to explore the wonderful bluebell woods on Leith Hill with improving photography skills, this workshop is suitable for both beginner and intermediate photographers. The course is primarily aimed at camera users, but iPhone and Android phone users are also very welcome. Camera settings, composition and creativity and post processing will all be covered in the workshop. Free, but please book as places are limited.
Woodland cyanotype workshop at Leith Hill Place
Thu 8 May & Sun 2 June, 2-5pm
Discover the art of cyanotype printing, an early photographic process which produces white imagery on a deep Prussian blue background, magically developed before your eyes in daylight. Join artist Lisa Pettibone who will guide you in creating your own cyanotype artworks using natural materials that you will have gathered during the session. All materials will be provided, plus tea and biscuits. £35. Booking essential.
Artisan market and well-being fair at Hindhead Commons
Sun 11 May, 10am-4pm
Enjoy a day of wellbeing and connection with nature in the beautiful setting of Hindhead Commons and the Devil's Punch Bowl. Try yoga and mindfulness sessions and browse the artisan stalls selling a selection of food, drink and arts and crafts. In collaboration with Surrey Hills Enterprises.
Free meditative evening nature walks at Denbies Hillside
Mon 12 May, 9 Jun, 14 Jul, 11 Aug, 8 Sep, 7-8pm
Join National Trust ranger, Natasaha, for a gentle meditave stroll over Denbies Hillside. Stopping along the route to sit and contemplate the sounds of nature, this is a perfect opportunity to relax and unwind, enjoying the golden hour on the Surrey Hills. Please bring a cushion or blanket to sit on. Free, but please book as spaces are limited.
Herb walk and balm making workshop at Denbies Hillside
Sat 17 May, 10am-2.30pm
Under the guidance of ranger Natasha, collect a selection of herbs from the hillside and learn how to mix them with mineral oil, coco butter and beeswax to make your own herbal balm. £30. Booking essential.
How to Read a Tree with Tristan Dooley
Thu 22 May, 5.30-6.30pm
Which way now? From the feel of a rock to a glance at the moon, award- winning writer, Tristan Gooley Introduces the rare and ancient art of finding your way using nature's own signposts. Discover how trees can help you find your way in the countryside and how it's possible to find north simply by looking at a puddle. In this fascinating talk, Tristan helps us reconnect with our powers of observation to help us navigate the world around us. £8 per person. Booking essential.
Create your own diorama at Leith Hill Place
Sat 24 May, 2-4pm
Join artist Andrea Gregson to make make your own nature-inspired miniature world. Andrea Gregson is the creator of the sculpture 'Last Night for Ever, which is currently at Leith Hill Place before touring other National Trust properties in the South East. £25 per person. Booking essential.
'Under a Canopy' at Leith Hill
Meander through the beautiful Rhododendron Wood with an audio guided mindful walk 'Under a Canopy' by Alison Carlier. Take your time. Breathe slowly and deeply and relax. Download the audio guide here.
Mindfulness trail sheet
Take a walk through the woods or heathland, and discover some hints and tips for practising mindfulness using our trail sheet. You can download one here or pick one up from visitor reception at Box Hill or Hindhead Commons.