Best trails in Banstead Wood, Surrey, England

A circular walk discovering the hidden secrets and natural wonders of Banstead Woods, 250 acres of ancient woodland. Banstead Woods recorded history stretches back for nearly a thousand years, to the time of the Domesday Book in 1086. This walk is part of the Explore Surrey collection, published through a collaboration with the Surrey County Council. Most of the paths are firm and in good condition, however some sections can be muddy in the winter or after rainfall so stout shoes, boots or wellingtons are recommended. The route includes several slopes and there are kissing gates at the start and end of the walk. Dogs are welcome in the woodland, in fact it is a very popular dog walking spot, but please clear up after your dog and put the waste in the dog bins provided. The final stretch of 400m crosses a flower meadow where cattle are used for conservation grazing. Take the usual care if you have a dog with you. (Alternatively, you can easily avoid this section by returning to the car park on the path through the woodland edge). There is plenty to see along the way so allow 2 hours. There are no toilets or places for refreshments along the actual route, however there are many benches along the way should you wish to bring a picnic. The area is covered by Ordnance Survey Map Explorer 146 Dorking, Box Hill and Reigate. This walk follows permissive footpaths which cross public and private land. Information is included for your interest, but please respect people's privacy, keep dogs under control and remember the Countryside Code.Show more

A circular walk around the Banstead countryside, close to Chipstead in Surrey. This beautiful route follows paths through chalk grassland, mixed woodlands and open farmland, all rich habitats for a range of wildlife and flowers. Several of the woodlands are filled with bluebells in the late spring and the chalk grasslands are home to rare plants such as greater yellow rattle and orchids. This walk is published through a collaboration with Surrey County Council. The walking route includes climbs and descents (some of which are quite steep) throughout and follows a mixture of field, woodland and grassland paths. There are many intersecting paths in parts of the commons, so the app's live GPS map will be the best tool to aid navigation. Some stretches can get muddy and slippery after periods of rain and in winter, so good boots are a must (or wellies with grips in the winter months). You will need to negotiate several kissing gates and bridle gates plus some steps, but there are no stiles or livestock on route. There is no road walking involved, but there are a couple of road crossings that need care. Allow 3 hours. There are no refreshments or other facilities directly on route, but you will find The Ramblers Rest on Outwood Lane, just a short drive from the car park. The area is covered by Ordnance Survey Map Explorer 146 Dorking, Box Hill and Reigate. This walk follows public footpaths and bridleways which cross private and public land. Information is included for your interest, but please respect people's privacy, keep dogs under control and remember the Countryside Code.Show more