Attractions and Places To See around Caterham Valley - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Caterham Valley include a variety of viewpoints, cycling routes, and trails. This region offers a transition from urban areas to the open lanes of Kent, featuring country roads and scenic landscapes. Visitors can explore areas known for their natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities. The geography includes hills and quiet lanes, providing diverse settings for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Caterham Valley
- The most popular attractions is Col du Skelly Monument, a man-made monument that commemorates a cyclist. It is located on Beddlestead, a climb regularly ridden by cyclists.
- Another must-see spot is Col du Skelly (Beddlestead Lane climb), a climb and cycle way. This route is known for its quiet road with little motor traffic and its challenging, inconsistent ascent.
- Visitors also love Farthing Downs Scenic Road, a viewpoint and cycle way. This road offers views of the city in the distance and features free-roaming cattle.
- Caterham Valley is known for its viewpoints, cycling routes, and trails. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from challenging climbs to scenic roads.
- The attractions around Caterham Valley are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 500 upvotes and 18 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Col du Skelly Monument
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Col du Skelly (Beddlestead Lane climb)
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
Also, have some restraint on the rather steep descent at the start as there is usually a small bit of gravel in the road at the bottom which can cause issues due to the road being very narrow. It is usually easy to avoid if riding sufficiently slowly though.
If you want to do this climb fast, the bits to go hard on are the flatter middle section and the end while aiming to sustain momentum through the first kilometre. It is a tough but rather fun balancing act to get right.
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Farthing Downs Scenic Road
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Skid Hill Lane View
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Gateway to the Kent Lanes
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Tips from the Community
Nice road and generally quiet. Lovely views into and across the valley.
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Nice a flowy. Slight uphill if heading south, glorious gentle down hill if heading north and back into London.
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I love this view. There is a place where you can sit in the nook of a tree and just enjoy the valley for a while..
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I actually made the monument to Paul who was a friend, fellow father (our kids went to school together), customer (Cadence) and fellow cyclist. I had seen a picture of Paul next to a mountain marker in the Alps which is where the idea came from. I no experience of using fibreglass but gave it a go, in my garage, stinking the whole place in the process! Thankfully, the local landowners gave me permission to place it on Beddlestead, a climb Paul regularly rode. It’s great to see it still standing and I remember Paul every time I ride by. For those of you who never met Paul, he was one of life’s gentlemen. He inspired a whole bunch of people in their careers, on the bike and on the rugby pitch. He is sadly missed but always remembered.
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Magnificent road passing through fields and which offers you a view of the city. I crossed it in hot weather and it wasn't the best but it was still worth the detour and the climb is pretty good. hello gear 🤣
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Beautiful road. After the steep descent, take extra care as it’s there’s loose gravel at the bottom. Ascent the other side is a lovely, gentle and picturesque climb.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some notable viewpoints around Caterham Valley?
Caterham Valley offers several scenic viewpoints. You can enjoy distant city views and free-roaming cattle at Farthing Downs Scenic Road. Another pleasant spot with great views is Skid Hill Lane View, which is also noted for bird-of-prey spotting.
Are there good cycling routes near Caterham Valley?
Yes, the area is popular with cyclists. The Col du Skelly (Beddlestead Lane climb) is a well-known, challenging ascent on a quiet road. You can also find scenic cycling opportunities at Farthing Downs Scenic Road and the Gateway to the Kent Lanes, which transitions from urban areas to open country roads. For more off-road options, explore the MTB Trails around Caterham Valley.
What kind of easy walks or beginner hikes can I find?
For easy walks and beginner-friendly hikes, consider routes like the 'Steps to North Downs Way – Marden Park Forest Trail loop from Woldingham' or the 'Kenley Common & RAF Kenley loop from Whyteleafe'. You can find more options and detailed guides in the Easy hikes around Caterham Valley guide.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the area?
Yes, Skid Hill Lane View is categorized as family-friendly, offering pleasant views and a largely quiet lane for a relaxed outing. The general outdoor nature of the area, with its trails and viewpoints, also provides opportunities for family walks and exploration.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Caterham Valley?
Visitors frequently praise the quiet country lanes, the challenging yet rewarding climbs for cyclists, and the unexpected scenic views. The sense of transitioning from urban settings to open countryside is also a highlight, with many appreciating the natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activity.
Are there any unique or hidden gems to discover?
A unique spot is the Col du Skelly Monument, a man-made monument commemorating a cyclist, located on the popular Beddlestead climb. It's a poignant and personal tribute that adds a unique touch to the cycling routes in the area.
What outdoor activities, besides cycling, can I do near these attractions?
Beyond cycling, you can explore various hiking and running trails. For example, the 'Caterham Viewpoint – Gravelly Hill Viewpoint loop from Caterham' is an easy hike. If you're into running, consider routes like the 'Surrey National loop from Caterham'. Detailed guides for these activities can be found in the Easy hikes around Caterham Valley and Running Trails around Caterham Valley guides.
When is the best time to visit Caterham Valley attractions?
The attractions around Caterham Valley, being primarily outdoor-focused, are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for cycling and hiking, with beautiful foliage in the latter. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while some routes can be enjoyed in winter, though conditions may vary.
Are there any trails that offer a sense of escaping the city?
Yes, the Gateway to the Kent Lanes is specifically noted as a route that takes you from London into the open lanes of Kent, providing a clear transition from urban to rural landscapes. It's a great way to experience the region's natural beauty.
Can I find trails with varied terrain for different skill levels?
Absolutely. The area features a mix of terrains. For instance, the Col du Skelly (Beddlestead Lane climb) offers an inconsistent ascent, making it a good test for cyclists. Other trails range from easy, flat sections to more challenging, hilly routes, catering to various fitness levels.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see?
You can expect to see rolling hills, quiet country lanes, and open fields. Many viewpoints offer expansive vistas, sometimes including distant cityscapes. The presence of free-roaming cattle at places like Farthing Downs Scenic Road adds to the rural charm.
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Most popular attractions around Caterham Valley
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