Highlight • Natural Monument
Holmbury Hill Viewpoint
Mountain biking
4.9
(237)
Hiking
5.0
(205)
Running
5.0
(17)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
A historic wooded summit on Surrey’s beautiful Greensand Ridge
Holmbury Hill’s top rises above the Hurtwood and its pines, ponds, glades and myriad trails. You can find scattered accommodation in the surrounding countryside and there are plenty of options in the nearby towns of Guildford and Dorking. Holbury St Mary is a good starting point for adventures here.
The Greensand Way, a 108-mile (174 km) long-distance trail, visits Holmbury Hill’s summit. From here, it’s around an hour’s amble to the county high point Leith Hill, so the two can be combined as part of a longer day out.
However you decide to approach the top, Holmbury Hill’s panorama is stupendous, particularly to the east along the Greensand Ridge towards Leith Hill and to the south, where flatter green pastures and pockets of woodland stretch away towards the horizon. A wonderfully crafted toposcope allows you to identify features in the distance.
It’s thought that the hillfort was constructed by Celts who settled here before the Roman invasion. In much more recent times, Holmbury Hill was the inspiration for the Beatles classic ‘Here Comes the Sun’, after George Harrison and Eric Clapton enjoyed a walk to the top one morning.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
April 23, 2020
Hiking
May 20, 2020
Mountain biking
June 10, 2026
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Holmbury Hill Viewpoint
4.7
(77)
281
hikers
15.6km
04:20
290m
290m
Embark on a moderate hiking adventure through the Surrey Hills with the Holmbury Hill & Leith Hill loop from Hurtwood. This 9.7-mile (15.6 km) route, which takes about 4 hours and 19 minutes to complete, guides you through varied terrain, including forest tracks, sandy paths, and undulating sections with some steep climbs. From the Holmbury Hill viewpoint, you can enjoy expansive panoramas across the landscape, spotting landmarks like Leith Hill and, on clear days, even the South Downs.
This trail is suitable if you have good fitness, as some sections may require sure-footedness. Be prepared for occasional muddy patches, especially after wet weather, so wear appropriate footwear. The paths are mostly accessible, but the diverse terrain means you will encounter everything from smooth trails to rooty bridleways.
Discover rich history and unique natural features along the way. At the summit of Holmbury Hill, you will find the remains of an Iron Age hillfort. The route also takes you through The Hurtwood, a privately owned woodland known for its magical pine woods, heaths, and glades, and passes near the Hurtwood Millennium Pinetum. You might even spot the
4.8
(52)
349
hikers
34.3km
09:52
810m
810m
Embark on a challenging hike through the Surrey Hills, exploring a diverse landscape of woodland trails, open countryside, and rolling hills. This difficult route spans 21.3 miles (34.3 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 2645 feet (806 metres), requiring about 9 hours and 51 minutes to complete. You will experience panoramic vistas from Holmbury Hill across the Weald and from Leith Hill Tower, offering expansive views. The journey also takes you past the unique River Mole Stepping Stones at Box Hill, adding a memorable feature to your adventure. Prepare for a long day out with varied terrain underfoot.
The starting point for this hike is conveniently located at Westhumble, easily accessible if you plan to use public transport. Given the varied and sometimes muddy terrain, especially after rain, you should wear proper hiking boots to ensure comfort and stability. Hiking poles can also be helpful for maintaining balance on steeper slopes you will encounter along the way. This long-distance hike demands very good fitness and sure-footedness, so plan your start time to allow ample daylight.
This route is celebrated for showcasing the natural beauty of the Surrey Hills National Landscape, offering more than just physical challenge. You will traverse areas known for their rich ecosystems and geological features that shape the distinctive rolling hills. The trail connects three prominent hills, each providing a unique perspective on the surrounding countryside. It is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the region's natural environment and appreciate its varied topography.
4.5
(4)
9
hikers
18.1km
05:05
360m
360m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 250 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
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Thursday 2 July
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11°C
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Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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