Holmbury Hill, Pitch Hill, Reynards Hill and Hurt Wood via Greensand Way

Starting near the picturesque village of Peaslake in Surrey, England, this 14 km (approximately 8.7 miles) loop trail offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and moderate physical challenge. With an elevation gain of around 300 meters (approximately 984 feet), this trail is perfect for those looking to enjoy a medium-difficulty hike through some of Surrey's most scenic landscapes.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive to Peaslake, where limited parking is available. For those using public transport, the nearest train station is Gomshall, which is about 3 miles (4.8 km) away. From Gomshall, you can take a local bus or taxi to Peaslake.

Trail Overview The trail begins in Peaslake and quickly immerses you in the lush woodlands of the Surrey Hills. As you start your ascent towards Holmbury Hill, you'll be surrounded by dense forests of oak, beech, and pine. The initial climb is gradual, making it a good warm-up for the more challenging sections ahead.

Holmbury Hill At approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) into the hike, you'll reach Holmbury Hill, which stands at 261 meters (856 feet) above sea level. This hill is part of the Greensand Ridge and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. On a clear day, you can see as far as the South Downs. Holmbury Hill is also home to the remnants of an Iron Age hill fort, adding a touch of historical intrigue to your journey.

Pitch Hill Continuing along the Greensand Way, you'll head towards Pitch Hill, located about 6 km (3.7 miles) from the start. This section of the trail is relatively flat, allowing you to catch your breath and enjoy the serene woodland scenery. Pitch Hill, at 257 meters (843 feet), offers another excellent vantage point. The views here are particularly striking during the autumn months when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and gold.

Reynards Hill Around the 9 km (5.6 miles) mark, you'll arrive at Reynards Hill. This part of the trail is less frequented, providing a peaceful and secluded atmosphere. The terrain here is a mix of open heathland and dense forest, offering a diverse range of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species that inhabit the area.

Hurt Wood The final leg of the hike takes you through Hurt Wood, one of the largest areas of common land in Surrey. This section is about 11 km (6.8 miles) into the hike and features a network of well-maintained paths. Hurt Wood is known for its rich biodiversity, including rare plants and fungi. The gentle descent through this ancient woodland is a relaxing way to end your hike.

Navigation and Safety Given the trail's moderate difficulty and varied terrain, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track. The trail is well-marked, but having a digital map can be invaluable, especially in the more remote sections.

Historical Significance The Surrey Hills have a rich history, with evidence of human activity dating back to the Iron Age. The remnants of the hill fort on Holmbury Hill are a testament to the area's long-standing strategic importance. Additionally, the Greensand Way itself is an ancient route that has been used for centuries, adding a layer of historical depth to your hike.

This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, moderate physical challenge, and historical interest, making it a must-visit for any hiking enthusiast.