If you’re looking for a scenic and active day trip from London, Box Hill in Surrey is one of the best places to go. It’s perfect for hiking, cycling, or simply escaping the city for a few hours of fresh air and stunning views.

Box Hill is one of my favourite walks around London, and I’m lucky enough to call Surrey home, which means it’s just a short drive away for me. I’ve visited in different seasons, and it’s always a great place to unwind and reconnect with nature.

In this post, I’m going to share everything you need to know about the Box Hill walk, from how to get there to the best routes, tips, and what to expect along the way.

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Where Is Box Hill and Why Visit?

Box Hill is in Surrey, southwest of London, and part of the North Downs. It’s managed by the National Trust and offers some of the most beautiful countryside walks in England. 

This hill became famous when Jane Austen visited Surrey and was inspired to write the picnic scene in Emma. Although the scene wasn’t actually filmed here, Box Hill still holds that romantic English countryside charm.

Locals love it for its mix of woodland paths, open viewpoints, and wildlife, while visitors come for the easy access and rewarding views. It is also a great place for photography. 

How to Get to Box Hill from London

You can easily get to Box Hill either by train or car, making it one of the most accessible countryside walks from London

By Train

Regular trains run from London Waterloo and London Victoria to Box Hill & Westhumble Station, taking around 40 to 50 minutes.

Once you arrive, it’s about a 10-minute walk from the station to the start of the trail.

By Car

If you prefer to drive, head south from London on the A24 towards Dorking. There are several parking options available:

National Trust Box Hill Car Park,  located near the visitor centre and main viewpoint. Free for National Trust members, otherwise there’s a small fee (around £5 for the day).

Ryka’s Café Car Park,  found at the base of Box Hill, is popular with cyclists and walkers. It’s pay-and-display.

You might find a few free spots nearby, but they fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

Box Hill can get very busy on sunny weekends and holidays, so it’s best to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon for a quieter experience.

The Box Hill Circular Walk

The most popular route here is the Box Hill Circular Walk, also known as the Stepping Stones Walk. It’s a moderate trail that takes you through woodlands, open hills, and riverside paths. The route is around 7.5 kilometres (4.7 miles) long with about 230 metres of elevation gain, and it usually takes 2 to 3 hours to complete, depending on your pace.

This is my favourite route in Box Hill, because it gives you a little bit of everything: forest trails, viewpoints, riverside sections, and peaceful nature. But there are other routes to explore too. If you’re after something shorter or more relaxed, try the Hill Top Stroll or the Natural Play Trail, both starting near the visitor centre. For a longer challenge, you can continue on the Box Hill Hike, an 8-mile trail. 

Starting Box Hill Circular Walk

You’ll begin near Ryka’s Café, right by the main car park. The first part of the walk is quite steep and might look intimidating, but don’t worry, it’s the hardest bit, and it only lasts a few minutes. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views across the Surrey Hills.

If it has rained recently, the chalky stones can be slippery. You can take the grassy route instead. It’s still a climb, but much safer when the ground is wet.

Through the Woods

Once you’ve conquered the first hill, the trail continues through beautiful woodlands. In autumn, the trees turn golden and the whole area becomes a photographer’s dream. Even if you’re not into taking photos, it’s the perfect place to slow down, listen to the birds, and enjoy being surrounded by nature.

Along the way, you’ll come across a tower, a natural play area, and several signs about the local wildlife, including bats. It’s a fun and educational stop if you’re hiking with kids, and honestly, even adults can’t resist trying out the play area.

Midway Stop

Roughly halfway through the route, there’s a small café where you can grab a snack or coffee. The prices are a little steep, so I recommend bringing your own water and maybe a few snacks to enjoy along the trail. It’s always better to carry a reusable water bottle, which is not only practical but also more environmentally friendly.

The Stepping Stones

One of the most iconic sights on this walk is the Stepping Stones, which cross the River Mole. It’s a popular photo spot and can get busy, especially on weekends, so you might need to wait for your turn. If you prefer to skip the queue, there’s a small bridge nearby that you can use instead.

After crossing the river, the trail climbs back uphill. This section is longer but not as steep as the first one. Eventually, the path loops back to where you started, near Ryka’s Café, where many walkers stop for a well-deserved lunch or coffee before heading home.

When to Visit Box Hill

You can visit Box Hill any time of year, and each season has its own charm. But if I had to choose, autumn is my favourite. The trees turn golden, the air feels crisp, and the views are even more beautiful for photography.

Spring is also a lovely time to visit, especially when wildflowers begin to bloom and the hills are covered in fresh greenery. Summer is great for picnics and long walks, but it can get busy on weekends and school holidays, so it’s best to start early or go later in the afternoon.

If you don’t mind the cold, winter can be surprisingly peaceful. You might even get mist rolling through the valley, giving the landscape a magical atmosphere. Just make sure to wear proper hiking shoes, as the paths can be muddy and slippery after rain.

Where to Eat and Stay Nearby

After a good walk, there’s nothing better than a tasty meal or a well-deserved coffee. The most popular place to stop is Rykas Café, located right at the base of Box Hill. It’s a local favourite among walkers, cyclists, and bikers. If you’re looking for something more substantial, head to the Smith & Western restaurant, near the main viewpoint. 

Although Box Hill is easy to reach from London, you can also turn your visit into a relaxing countryside getaway. The Box Hill Burford Bridge Hotel is a great place to stay if you want to spend the night nearby. It’s right at the foot of Box Hill, with comfortable rooms.

For a more traditional English pub stay, The Running Horses in Mickleham is another great choice. It’s just a few minutes from Box Hill and offers cosy rooms, local food, and a relaxed countryside atmosphere.

Tips for Walking at Box Hill

Wear proper hiking shoes. The trails at Box Hill can be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. A pair of comfortable, waterproof hiking shoes will make a big difference.

Bring water and snacks. Even though there’s a café on the route, it’s always good to have your own supplies, and a reusable water bottle is the most eco-friendly choice.

Dress for the weather. Conditions can change quickly in Surrey, so it’s a good idea to bring a lightweight rain jacket or an extra layer.

Take your time. Some parts of the path are steep, so don’t rush, enjoy the views and take breaks along the way.

Avoid peak times. Box Hill gets busy on sunny weekends. If you prefer a quieter experience, go early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

Respect nature. Don’t leave litter or food waste behind. Sadly, I once spotted a coffee cup left on a historical monument. Let’s keep this beautiful area clean.