The Surrey Hills: A Journey Through Time & Landscape
Location
Hosted by
Summit Roots
About
Explore the landscape, uncover its stories and learn as you walk
A big day out exploring the North Downs Way and surrounding hills, discovering how geology, nature and people have shaped the landscape around us.
We'll walk through landscapes that tell stories stretching back millions of years from the geology beneath our feet and the dinosaurs that once roamed here, to Bronze Age monuments, ancient routes, farming, wartime bunkers and the people who have lived and worked across these hills.
Along the way we'll stop to look more closely at what the landscape and nature can tell us. There'll be opportunities to try some simple nature connection techniques and see how spending a little more time noticing the world around you changes the experience of walking.
It's a long day, but there's plenty to discover along the way — a walk packed with stories, nature, practical skills and new experiences.
What's included
Expert leadership from a qualified Mountain Leader and North Downs Way Ambassador
Guided exploration of the landscape, history and natural world
A practical introduction to nature connection
Small group experience – maximum 6 people
A full day of walking, learning and discovering
What to bring
You’ll be outside for most of the day, so come prepared for the changeable British weather. We’ll keep moving, but there will be plenty of opportunities to stop, talk about the landscape, practise your skills and enjoy the surroundings.
Walking boots or sturdy hiking shoes
Waterproof jacket and trousers
Warm layers – it’s better to have an extra layer you don't need than to wish you had one
Hat and gloves
Packed lunch and snacks
Plenty of water and a hot drink
A sit mat, if you have one – or borrow one of ours
What you'll take away
A deeper understanding of the landscape around you
Stories of the people, places and events that have shaped the Surrey Hills
A new perspective on the natural world
An introduction to different ways of navigating outdoors
Some simple ways to notice and connect more closely with nature
And, hopefully, some new memories and a good excuse to come back and explore further
What to expect
A day of discovery
We'll start with a coffee, introductions and a chat about the day ahead. It's a chance to get to know each other and find out what you're particularly interested in, whether that's history, nature, or simply enjoying a good day in the hills.
Then we'll head outside.
The route takes us across the North Downs and surrounding countryside, with regular stops to look, listen and explore. Rather than simply walking past the landscape, we'll use it to tell the story of the hills and the people who have travelled, worked and lived here.
And there's no expectation that you need to remember everything. This is about being curious, asking questions and seeing the landscape a little differently.
We will explore:
Understanding the landscape
The geology beneath our feet and how it shaped the Surrey Hills
The prehistoric landscape and evidence of the people who came before us
The influence of farming and changing land use
Ancient routes and how people have travelled through the hills
The impact of more recent history, including the Second World War
The question of who can walk, ride and enjoy these landscapes today
Connecting with nature
We'll also take some time to explore a different side of walking.
Being outdoors is good for us, but there is a difference between simply being outside and really noticing the natural world around us. We'll introduce some simple nature connection techniques and give you the opportunity to try them for yourself.
There are no expectations and no right or wrong way to do it. It's simply a chance to slow down for a few minutes, pay attention and see whether it changes how you experience the landscape.
Why does this matter?
There is growing evidence that our relationship with nature can have a positive effect on our wellbeing. Research from the University of Derby's Nature Connectedness Research Group suggests that it is not simply the amount of time we spend in nature that matters, but the quality of our relationship with it — noticing, feeling, appreciating and connecting with the natural world.
Ready to explore the Surrey Hills differently?
Join North Downs Way Ambassador Mark Rowlands, for a day of walking, stories, nature and discovery.
At a glance
📍 Location:
Denbies Vineyard, Dorking, RH5 6AA
🕘 Time:
09:00 – 16:00
🥾 Distance
10–12 miles / 16–19km depending on the final route
⛰️ Ascent
Approximately 900 ft / 300m
🚶 Walking time
Approximately 5 hours, plus regular stops
👥 Group size
Maximum 6 people
🥾 Level
Two boots - suitable for intermediate and above
Cost
£25 per person
