The Surrey Three Peaks

The Surrey Three Peaks is a classic route to some of the highest points in the county. Typically completed in a day, the journey takes in the summits of the following hills: Leith Hill, Holmbury Hill and Box Hill. With over 800m of climbing and stretching over 18 - 21 miles, this is one of the finest routes in the South of England. The Surrey Three Peaks route normally takes between 8 to 11 hours depending on fitness levels and route choice. There are options to walk a linear route or a full circular route depending on preferences. The hike is an excellent corporate and charity challenge or for friends wanting to do something a little bit different. We offer a fully guided option or have information below for those wanting to organise their own Surrey Three Peaks challenge.

Surrey Three Peaks Route

There are a few ways to do the Surrey Three Peaks route, either as a linear route or as a circular route. The linear route is shorter and allows you to enjoy more of the countryside while taking less time and is our recommended choice. Please refer to below information if you are organising your own ‘Surrey Three Peaks Challenge’.

Linear Route (18 miles)

The linear route starts in Holmwood and finishes near Box Hill and is conveniently located by a direct train journey (10 minutes). Typically, this route takes 8-9 hours. It is a great choice if you are coming by train and want an enjoyable day out doing the ‘Three Peaks’ with a little more time for stops along the way.

Surrey Three Peaks GPX Files (linear route):

GPX I OS Maps I Garmin

Circular Route (21 miles)

The circular route can take 10-11 hours and you start and finish in the same location. The circular route is a little more of a ‘peak bagging’ style route with several similar sections but easier from a logistics and planning perspective. You can also do a Surrey Three Peaks circular route which is approximately 19.5-20 miles although this makes sacrifices to the quality of your walk.

Surrey Three Peaks GPX Files (circular route):

GPX I OS Maps I Garmin

Contact Us Here For Information On A guided Event

Organising Your Own Surrey Three Peaks Challenge

When organising your own Surrey Three Peaks, route planning and training is essential. This is a physically demanding day with both the distance of the walk and elevation gain which is often in short and steep sections. That being said, it is an accessible and breathtaking challenge which is attempted by hundreds of people each year. There are several unique hazards and a ‘sensible approach’ is important, these include and are not limited to crossing the Stepping Stones over the River Mole which can be dangerous all-year around and especially when the water level is high. There are road sections, railway crossings and some steep ground which becomes slippery and tricky in poor weather. Despite being in Surrey, there are remote sections of the route and appropriate equipment and food/hydration is important.

Top 10 Local Businesses To Visit While On The Surrey Three Peaks

There are a range of wonderful businesses you can visit on the Surrey Three Peaks challenge, with several brilliant pubs, cafe’s and breakfast options. We have no affiliation to any of theses businesses other than recommended some friendly and welcoming places to visit while out on your walk.

Surrey Hills Cafe - Nicki and her team cook up 'the best’ Full English in Surrey. A perfect way to start your day.

The Plough Inn - Fresh local fare including sausage rolls and coffee in the small shop. Well worth a stop

Leith Hill Tower - Nestled in Leith Hill Tower is a small hatch serving hot drinks and savoury treats.

Heartwork Coffee - Artisan coffee in a rustic setting, popular with cyclists.

The Royal Oak - You always get a warm welcome at the Royal Oak which has a pretty front courtyard beer garden area.

The Wotton Hatch - Another well-run and welcoming pub. Slightly off the traditional ‘three peaks’ route but worth the trip.

Denbies Wine Estate - One of England’s largest vineyards, with coffee, hot food plenty of walking routes through while on the challenge.

Rykas Cafe - A haven for motorcyclists and efficient service for a range of burgers and baps.

National Trust Box Hill Cafe - A popular spot a short way from the viewpoint of Box Hill.

The Stepping Stones Pub - Lots of space, big portions and an excellent place to finish your Three Peaks Challenge.

  • Professional guide with hill walking qualifications, advanced first aid skills and insurance.

  • The Surrey Hills Cafe

    10 Beare Green Rd, Beare Green, Dorking RH5 4SL

  • Box Hill & Westhumble Station

    Westhumble St, Westhumble, Dorking RH5 6BT

  • Typically this route takes between 7 - 9 hours to complete.

    • Comfortable clothes to hike in (synthetic materials are a good choice).

    • Mobile phone.

    • Walking shoes or trail shoes.

    • Waterproof jacket and warm fleece.

    • Warm hat and gloves.

    • 1 litres of water under 4 hours of activity, 2 litres of water over 4 hours of activity.

    • Suncream and sun protection if appropriate. ion text goes here

    • Your own packed lunch and snacks.

    • Small rucksack to hold your clothes, water and food.

  • Children over 14 years are welcome if accompanied by an adult.

  • Are very welcome. You will need to take full responsibility for your dog.

  • You will never be abandoned and likely be taken to a safe pick-up point for a taxi. Please note, you will incur the cost of a taxi.

  • Normally this walk takes around 8 hours, you might be surprised by what you can do! Please get in touch if you would like a chat about difficulty.

  • Unfortunately we have a strict no refund policy if you cancel or can't attend.

    If we cancel, you will receive a full refund minus a 10% admin fee. For example, a £30 booking will be refunded at £27.

Group of hikers walking on a dirt trail through a green, wooded forest under a clear blue sky.

Guided Hike On The Surrey Three Peaks

For a guided hike on the Surrey Three Peaks challenge, we have a small local guiding team who love the Surrey Hills. A guide for the Surrey Three Peaks is a great way to enjoy the challenges with someone who is friendly, knowledgeable along with having first aid and walking qualifications (Mountain Leader, Lowland Leader or Hill & Moorland Leader) allowing you to take in and enjoy the day, For private bookings, we run regular trips for companies, private groups and small parties and can offer additional support for a challenge with preparation calls, a support car, the infamous ‘snack van’ and finisher medals. Please get in touch here for a quick quote.