St Martha's Hill via North Downs Way and Tillingbourne at Work

Starting near Surrey, England, this 7 km (approximately 4.3 miles) loop trail offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and historical intrigue. With an elevation gain of around 200 meters (656 feet), it is rated as a medium difficulty hike, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

Getting There

To reach the trailhead, you can either drive or use public transport. If driving, you can park near the village of Chilworth, which is close to the starting point. For those using public transport, the nearest train station is Chilworth Station, which is a short walk from the trailhead. Buses also run from Guildford to Chilworth, providing another convenient option.

Trail Overview

The trail begins near Chilworth and quickly immerses you in the serene beauty of the Surrey Hills. As you start, you'll follow the North Downs Way, a historic long-distance path that stretches across the southeast of England. This section of the trail is well-marked and relatively easy to navigate, but it's always a good idea to have a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to ensure you stay on track.

St Martha's Hill

About 2 km (1.2 miles) into the hike, you'll reach St Martha's Hill, one of the most significant landmarks on this trail. The hill is crowned by St Martha's Church, a beautiful 19th-century building that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The elevation gain to this point is around 100 meters (328 feet), so be prepared for a bit of a climb. The views from the top are well worth the effort, providing a perfect spot for a rest and some photography.

Tillingbourne at Work

Continuing on, the trail leads you towards the Tillingbourne at Work exhibition, located approximately 4 km (2.5 miles) from the start. This part of the trail is relatively flat, making for a pleasant walk through lush woodlands and along the banks of the Tillingbourne River. The exhibition showcases the industrial heritage of the area, with informative displays about the mills and other industries that once thrived here.

Flora and Fauna

The trail is rich in biodiversity. Keep an eye out for a variety of bird species, including woodpeckers and nuthatches, as well as mammals like deer and foxes. The woodlands are home to ancient oak and beech trees, and in the spring, the forest floor is often carpeted with bluebells, adding a splash of color to your hike.

Final Stretch

As you loop back towards Chilworth, the final 1 km (0.6 miles) of the trail takes you through open fields and past picturesque cottages, offering a gentle descent back to the starting point. The total elevation gain for the entire loop is around 200 meters (656 feet), making it a moderately challenging but highly rewarding hike.

Historical Significance

The area around St Martha's Hill and the Tillingbourne River is steeped in history. St Martha's Church itself is built on the site of an earlier, medieval church, and the Tillingbourne River was once a hub of industrial activity, powering numerous mills and contributing to the local economy. The trail offers a unique opportunity to explore both the natural beauty and historical richness of the Surrey Hills.

This hike is a perfect blend of scenic views, historical landmarks, and diverse wildlife, making it a must-do for anyone visiting the Surrey area.