4.6
(5174)
33,282
hikers
588
hikes
Hiking around West Horsley offers access to a diverse landscape within the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region is characterized by extensive woodlands, including ancient forests like Sheepleas, and serene meadows such as Horsley Meadows. Undulating hills provide varied topography and gentle climbs, contributing to the scenic beauty of the area. This network of trails caters to various fitness levels, with many routes accessible via public transport.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
4.7
(3)
16
hikers
6.66km
01:49
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
8.20km
02:14
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
4
hikers
10.0km
02:47
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Although no longer standing, you can still see remnants of the lower walls of the bridge.
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St. Mary's Church was built by Thored, the Christian Dane and Lord of the manor in 1030.
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Hermitage Bridge crosses Sheepwalk Lane and is an excellent example of the Lovelace Bridges. In the 19th century a series of bridges were built by the landowner, Lord Lovelace, to facilitate the transportation of timber in his vast forest.
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The head of Sir Walter Raleigh is said to be buried in St Mary's Church. He was executed over 400 years ago and, as the story goes, his wife, Elizabeth, carried his head around in a bag while she lived opposite here in West Horsley Place. When she died, his head was laid to rest with his daughters here at the church, possibly in a small chapel which is now under the organ. Inside St Mary's Church there is also an impressive medieval wall painting of St Christopher, the patron saint of travellers, this being on a then important pilgrimage route.
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Hermitage Bridge is one of fifteen bridges that the Earl of Lovelace built to facilitate riding in the local area.
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Troy Bridge is one of fifteen bridges in the local area to facilitate riding in the woods. This is one of the ten remaining.
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On a clear day you can see some of the tallest buildings in London, almost 40km away!
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There are over 590 hiking trails in West Horsley that are easily accessible from local bus stations. These routes offer a wide range of experiences, from gentle strolls through woodlands to more moderate explorations of the Surrey Hills.
The terrain around West Horsley is quite varied, featuring extensive woodlands like the ancient Sheepleas and Little Wix Wood, serene meadows, and undulating hills. You'll find paths ranging from flat, easy sections to gentle climbs that offer rewarding views without being overly strenuous. Many routes, such as the St Mary's Church, West Horsley – Coronation Meadow loop, involve a mix of woodland paths and open countryside.
Yes, West Horsley offers several family-friendly options. Many of the trails are rated as easy and pass through pleasant woodlands and meadows, perfect for walks with children. The area's diverse landscapes and relatively gentle climbs make it suitable for various age groups. Look for routes that explore areas like Little Wix Wood or Horsley Meadows for enjoyable family outings.
Most of the hiking trails in West Horsley are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful Surrey Hills with your canine companion. It's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially when passing through areas with livestock or nature reserves. The extensive woodlands and open countryside provide plenty of space for dogs to explore.
West Horsley's bus-accessible trails offer a wealth of natural beauty and historical interest. You can explore ancient woodlands like Sheepleas, known for its spring bluebells, or discover historic Lovelace Bridges. Other notable attractions in the wider area include Leith Hill Tower and Viewpoint and St Martha's Church, offering stunning vistas and historical insights.
Yes, many of the routes accessible from West Horsley bus stations are circular, allowing for convenient starts and finishes without needing to retrace your steps. For example, the Hermitage Bridge – Troye Bridge loop is a moderate circular hike that takes you through varied scenery. The Horsley Jubilee Trail is another well-known circular walk in the area, though it's longer at approximately 9 miles.
West Horsley offers enjoyable hiking experiences year-round. Spring is particularly beautiful, with bluebells and primroses carpeting the ancient woodlands like Sheepleas. Summer provides lush greenery and pleasant temperatures for longer walks. Autumn brings stunning foliage, while winter offers crisp, quiet trails. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Yes, West Horsley and its surrounding villages offer several welcoming pubs and cafes where you can refuel after your hike. Many are conveniently located within walking distance of bus stops or trailheads, providing a perfect spot for a refreshment or a meal. It's a great way to experience local hospitality after exploring the trails.
The hikes accessible from West Horsley bus stations cater to a range of abilities. You'll find a significant number of easy routes, perfect for a leisurely stroll, alongside moderate trails that offer a bit more elevation and distance. For instance, the Coronation Meadow – St Mary's Church, West Horsley loop is a moderate option, while many shorter woodland walks are considered easy. There are also a few more difficult routes for experienced hikers seeking a greater challenge.
For additional details on local walks and the Horsley Jubilee Trail, including maps and descriptions, you can visit the West Horsley Parish Council website. They provide valuable resources for exploring the area's extensive network of public footpaths and bridleways. You can find more information at westhorsley-pc.gov.uk.
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences in West Horsley, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil woodlands, the well-maintained paths, and the diverse scenery that includes ancient forests, open meadows, and gentle hills. The accessibility from bus stations is also frequently highlighted as a major convenience.


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