Sailor's Stroll walk at Hindhead Commons
As well as the glorious views on this gentle walk to the summit at Gibbet Hill – the second highest point in Surrey – you will also learn about the barbarous murder of the unknown sailor. You can return to the café along the same route or, if you're feeling energetic, why not continue your walk on the Hidden Hindhead Trail?
Start point
Devil's Punch Bowl car park, GU26 6ABTrail information
Total stages: 5
Total stages: 5
Start point
Devil's Punch Bowl car park, GU26 6AB
Stage 1
From the car park proceed north towards the white trig-point with the dark blue Sailors Stroll markers.
Stage 2
Follow these markers and soon you'll come to the old A3, which is now grassed over. 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.
View from the Sailor's stone at Hindhead Commons | © Chris Worsley Stage 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.
Stage 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).
The Celtic Cross on Gibbet Hill | © National Trust/John Miller Stage 5
For your return, retrace your outward stroll, emerging back at the car park. Maybe head to the café for well-deserved light lunch, hot drink or snack.
End point
Devil's Punch Bowl car park, GU26 6AB
Trail map
Map of Sailor's Stroll at Hindhead Commons | © OS/NT
More near here
Roam 639 walk at Hindhead Commons and the Devil's Punch Bowl
A great but demanding walk with varied terrain that takes in the base of the Devil's Punch Bowl, Gibbet Hill and The Temple of the Four Winds.
Hidden Hindhead walking trail
Follow this walk crossing the old A3 to discover local history, spot grazing ponies and cattle and, on a clear day, catch views of the distant London skyline.
Highcombe hike
Embark on a challenging hike through the ancient woodland and open heath of Hindead Commons, skirting the Punch Bowl before dropping down to the valley to return.
Get in touch
Our partners
We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
You might also be interested in
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.
Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner
Learn about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor. Find out how they help us care for precious places and the exclusive discount available for National Trust supporters.
Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.
Things to do at Hindhead Commons and the Devil’s Punch Bowl
There’s plenty to do and see at Hindhead Commons, from walking around the Devil’s Punch Bowl to spotting Exmoor ponies.