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Improving visitor facilities at Hindhead Commons and the Devil’s Punch Bowl

A man stands looking at the far-reaching view, featuring many trees, on the edge of the massive circular depression, the Punch Bowl, at Hindhead Commons and the Devil's Punch Bowl, Surrey
Taking in the view over the Punch Bowl at Hindhead Commons and the Devil's Punch Bowl, Surrey | © National Trust Images/John Miller

We’ve made some changes to the visitor facilities here at Hindhead Commons and Devil’s Punch Bowl, to improve accessibility for everyone.

Working to improve accessibility

For the last five years we’ve been working on a project to improve facilities for visitors. We’ve improved and enlarged the toilet block, including opening a Changing Places toilet; redecorated the café and built a catering and visitor information kiosk.

In the car park, there are 40 new parking spaces increasing the car park's capacity to over 200 spaces. Parking areas have been relocated to improve views and appreciation of the peace and tranquillity of the site.

A new all-weather accessible circular pathway, suitable for off-road wheelchairs and pushchairs, is also open for you to explore.

The new Changing Places toilet

Hindhead Commons and the Devil’s Punch Bowl café was the first National Trust venue in London and the South East to offer a Changing Places toilet. The facility provides the right equipment and enough space for a person with more complex needs and up to two carers to use the toilet safely and comfortably.

The Multiple Sclerosis Changing Places Charity and the National Trust’s Equality Specialist, Heather Smith, were involved in the design which includes a changing table, adjustable wash-hand basin and ceiling track hoist.

The new building includes a bespoke external roof and is part of a wider project to make the site more accessible. A new all-weather accessible path around the top of the Punch Bowl has opened, thanks to the generous donation from the Black Down Supporters.

‘The new facilities will be so appreciated by visitors who need to use them. As an organisation it’s so important to us to be accessible and be able to welcome everyone.’

- Rob Bishop, Property Operations Manager

The provision of these facilities will enable disabled children, adults and their families and carers to enjoy the spectacular views and a day out in the beautiful Surrey countryside.

Improving our visitor experience

The improved café blends in with the existing building, with a new extension, providing a light, airy, seating area with folding glass doors. The end section has open sides, allowing people to have their pets with them, while sitting undercover. There's also access for bats.

A kiosk has replaced the existing shepherd’s hut and includes a membership area and additional food and drink hatch.

We've been able to undertake this work thanks to funding from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and a donation from the Black Down and Hindhead Supporters Group.

The work we've done

2022

The car park is completed

Work has been completed on the car park. There are now 40 new parking spaces, increasing the car park's capacity to over 200 spaces with log-marked bays, and the parking areas have been relocated making it easier to park safely at Hindhead Commons and the Devil’s Punch Bowl. 

 

 

Blue tit in December near Bradworthy, Devon

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Our partners

European Agricultural Fund for Regional Development

The European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) finances the EU's contribution to rural development programmes (RDPs).

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