East Horsley Loop

Starting near the charming village of East Horsley in Surrey, England, the East Horsley Loop is a delightful 12 km (approximately 7.5 miles) trail with an elevation gain of around 200 meters (656 feet). This loop trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can either drive or use public transport. If driving, set your GPS to East Horsley, Surrey, and look for parking near the village center. For those using public transport, East Horsley is accessible via the South Western Railway, with regular trains running from London Waterloo to Horsley Station. From the station, it's a short walk to the trailhead.### Trail Overview The East Horsley Loop offers a mix of woodland paths, open fields, and charming village lanes. The trail is well-marked, but it's always a good idea to have a navigation tool like HiiKER for added assurance.### Key Landmarks and Sections#### East Horsley Village Starting from the village, you'll immediately be immersed in the quaint English countryside. The village itself is worth a brief exploration, with its historic buildings and local shops.#### Sheepleas Nature Reserve Around 3 km (1.8 miles) into the hike, you'll enter the Sheepleas Nature Reserve. This area is a haven for wildlife, including various bird species and small mammals. The reserve is also home to a variety of wildflowers, especially vibrant in the spring and summer months.#### St. Mary's Church At approximately the 5 km (3.1 miles) mark, you'll come across St. Mary's Church, a historic landmark dating back to the 12th century. The church is a beautiful example of Norman architecture and offers a peaceful spot for a short rest.#### Effingham Forest Continuing on, you'll enter Effingham Forest around the 7 km (4.3 miles) point. This section of the trail is more wooded and offers a serene atmosphere with towering trees and shaded paths. Keep an eye out for deer and other woodland creatures.#### The Lovelace Bridges One of the most interesting historical features of this trail is the Lovelace Bridges, which you'll encounter around the 9 km (5.6 miles) mark. These ornate brick bridges were built in the 19th century by Lord Lovelace and are a testament to Victorian engineering.### Final Stretch The last few kilometers of the trail will take you through more open fields and back towards East Horsley. This section offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, especially on a clear day.### Tips and Recommendations - Footwear: Given the mix of terrain, sturdy hiking boots are recommended. - Weather: Check the weather forecast before you go, as some sections can become muddy after rain. - Supplies: Bring enough water and snacks, as there are limited facilities along the trail. - Navigation: While the trail is well-marked, using HiiKER can help ensure you stay on track.This trail offers a wonderful mix of natural beauty and historical interest, making it a rewarding hike for those looking to explore the Surrey countryside.