Reigate Hill and the North Downs: Walks, Views and Reigate Fort
The National Trust downland above the town, with the North Downs Way, Reigate Fort and long views across the Weald.
Reigate Hill rises immediately north of the town and forms part of the North Downs and the Surrey Hills National Landscape. It is one of the most popular walking and cycling spots in the area.
The views and the Fort
A footbridge over the A217 leads from the car park to open downland managed by the National Trust. From the escarpment there are long views south across the Weald. Nearby stands Reigate Fort, one of a chain of "London Defence" mobilisation centres built in the 1890s and now cared for by the National Trust.
Walking
The North Downs Way National Trail runs along the top of Reigate Hill, linking it with Colley Hill to the west and Gatton Park and Merstham to the east. There is a network of shorter circular walks through woodland and chalk grassland, which is rich in wildflowers and butterflies in summer.
Practical information
There is a pay-and-display car park at the top of Reigate Hill, off the A217 near junction 8 of the M25, along with a café kiosk. The hill is reached from the town centre by climbing the A217 on foot or by road.
Sources: National Trust — Reigate Hill and Gatton Park; Surrey Hills National Landscape.
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