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Explore the iconic Devil’s Punch Bowl, discover its myths and legends, enjoy panoramic viewpoints and some of Surrey’s finest heathlands.Beginning at Thursley Common National Nature Reserve, we’ll explore one of the UK’s finest remaining lowland heathlands before continuing across Hindhead Common, where sweeping views and abundant wildlife make this one of Surrey’s most spectacular landscapes.
We’ll climb to Gibbet Hill, Surrey’s second-highest point standing at 272 metres, before stopping to explore the iconic Devil’s Punch Bowl – a spectacular natural amphitheatre carved into the sandstone over thousands of years. Rich in myths, legends and fascinating history, the Punch Bowl has inspired writers, artists and visitors for centuries and is now one of the National Trust’s most treasured landscapes.
A memorable walk combining breath-taking scenery, panoramic viewpoints, fascinating history and some of Surrey’s most beautiful heathland.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging – 16km with several steady climbs and descents.
Duration: Approximately 4.5 hours walking, plus a 30–45 minute refreshment stop (around 5.5 hours in total).
Bring: Snacks, plenty of water, and money if you’d like to purchase refreshments at Devil’s Punch Bowl Café.
Facilities: Toilets and a Café are available at the Devil’s Punch Bowl Visitor Centre approximately halfway through the walk.
Hiking Guide: Kate Barker.
Meet/Park: Hankley Common Upper Car Park, Houndown Lane, Elstead, Godalming, Surrey GU8 6LW, 5-10min prior to start. What3words meeting point: marzipan.sitting.brotherly
Further event details and how to prepare for the walk:
Please ensure you bring water and snack for the walk. Please wear sturdy shoes; bring waterproofs if necessary. The distance and duration of the walk depends on the group’s pace and weather conditions. We aim for a medium walking pace with several stops, unless advertised in the event description.
For further details on how to prepare please read our Hiking Guide
Back on Track is committed to making the outdoors enjoyable and accessible for everyone. If this walk is too challenging for you, why not try one of our well-being walks. These are gently-paced walks for beginners or less confident walkers who want to build walking fitness. Equally, if you would like a hiking challenge, look up one of our Surrey 3 Peaks or day challenges.
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Event venue
Hankley Common, Godalming, United Kingdom
Tickets
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