Discover more at Box Hill
Find out when Box Hill is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Things to do at Box Hill
With its beautiful scenery, wildlife and viewpoints, Box Hill is a wonderful place to get outdoors and enjoy the natural world. Whether you want a leisurely walk with your family or to compete against friends as you cycle the Zig Zag road, there is plenty to explore. From butterflies to rare orchids, observe the changes of the seasons as well as wildlife as you discover the best of Box Hill.
Planning your family visit
- Toilets and baby changing facilities are next to the café
- High-chairs and children's lunches are available in the café
- Picnics are welcome
- For the most buggy-friendly routes, please ask at the Shepherd's Hut in the car park
- The family-friendly natural play trail is a 2-mile level route starting at the car park
Walking at Box Hill
Take in some of Surrey's finest views on one of the way-marked walks at Box Hill. Taking in chalk grassland, woodland or pasture, there's always something to see whatever the season. Choose from a leisurely stroll with friends, a longer hike or a playful trail for families.
Or, why not book on one of our free guided walks at Box Hill. Choose from social walks, guided hikes or history, nature or literary walks.
Box Hill in the autumn
As the season changes, autumn is a wonderful time to explore Box Hill. Take a short stroll to the viewpoint to admire the views, crunch through leaves on the family trail, or make a day of it on our Box Hill hike. Immerse yourself in the far-reaching views and warm autumn colours and discover a way-marked walk to suit you.
Help follow the countryside code by taking your litter home, parking responsibly and keeping your dog under control.
Cycling at Box Hill
Box Hill is well and truly on the map for road cycling following the London 2012 Olympic road races, part of which were held here. Billions of people around the world watched international athletes battle it out on the challenging 2.5km Zig Zag road.
With an average gradient of 4.9 per cent, the Box Hill circuit is among the most desired achievements of amateur and professional cyclists alike. The fastest climb, which rises by 133m, is recorded as an eye-watering 4 minutes 37 seconds at an average speed of 32.5kmh. Box Hill beat the winding French Alpine passes to be crowned the most popular cycling hill climb in the world.
Cycling through history
Box Hill has always been popular among road cyclists, and as early as the 1890s hundreds of people lined the road for Dorking Cycle Club events. The road’s steep gradients, sharp turns and gruelling long climbs meant that road races, hill climbs and time trials became a regular occurrence.
It was also seen as a scenic spot for Victorian day trippers to escape the smoggy air of inner-city London.
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Discover where to stop for a bite to eat at Box Hill, in the beautiful Surrey Hills. Sit down to a light meal in the café or pick up a snack from the servery as you cycle past.
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Denbies Hillside
Dramatic and stunning chalk escarpment with panoramic views
Headley Heath
A wonderful mix of open heathland, woodland and chalk downland
Countryside and woodland
Plan a visit to one of the special countryside places in our care and discover the benefits of being in the great outdoors. Pack your walking boots and get ready to explore woodlands, valleys and rivers.
Countryside and woodland in Surrey
Explore the wide array of countryside settings around Surrey, from tranquil waterways to landscaped parkland, and plenty of hills to climb.
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.
