Leith Hill

What should you do with a hill that is just 965 feet high?

That was the challenge facing Richard Hull in the 18th Century who decided that he wanted his hill to exceed the 'magic' 1000 feet.

So Leith Hill Tower was built, and at a height in excess of 60 feet pushed the total height over 1000 feet. The highest point in Southeast England, it offers views as far as St. Paul's Cathedral in London to the north, and the English Channel to the south.

Today Leith Hill Tower, and some of the surrounding woodland, is owned and maintained by the National Trust. There are excellent views in almost every direction.

The Tower is open to visitors on most weekends. There are a couple of good walks in the surrounding woods.

The Plough inn, Coldharbour

The Plough inn is a 17th century coaching house deep in the Surrey Hills countryside. The pub is home to the Leith Hill brewery and serves three of its ales. All of the beer is brewed using natural ingredients.

Holmbury St Mary

The village of Holmbury St Mary was developed in the 19th Century, originally being called Felday, the name was later adapted to incorporate Holmbury Hill and the newly built church St Mary resulting in the name we know today - Holmbury St Mary.

Holmbury Hill offers spectacular views to the North and South Downs and at its summit are the earthworks of an iron age fort.

Ranmore Common & Denbies Hill

Ranmore Common is 470 acres of exceptional wooded common adjoining the southern boundary of the Polesden Lacey National Trust estate.

Denbies Hillside is 744 acres of woodland and downland on the south escarpment of the North Downs.

Birds of prey are also a common sight. Skylarks used to be heard high in the sky. Beside the paths and spread throughout the downland, there are numerous species of wildflower, the most distinctive probably being the Pyramidal and Bee Orchids.

Soay sheep and Exmoor ponies, both rare breeds, are kept on the hillside to ensure that it remains a good habitat for a diverse range of species.