On Holmbury Hill

The view from the top - across The Weald

Last Saturday was a truly gorgeous Autumn day - perfect weather for walking.

We drove to Peaslake through mile after mile of tunnels of green, twisting and turning along narrow lanes, pausing frequently to squish our car into the high bank on the side of the road to allow another vehicle or cyclists to pass. 

 


The aim was to do a 2-hour loop walk through woodland to a little village we'd only briefly passed through in the past - Holmbury St Mary - and then up to the summit of Holmbury Hill.

After about 45 minutes ambling through beautiful heathlands and woods, we emerged into the village with its Arts and Crafts houses, towering hedges and lovely parish church.

Oddly, one of the cottages in the village has this Aboriginal name,
complete with kangaroo emblem

This garden gate is almost hobbit-like

Naturally enough, in a village called Holmbury St Mary, the church is named for St Mary and is perched atop a hill with a fine prospect across the village. It has a very handsome timber spire.

Church of St Mary the Virgin, Holmbury St Mary

We timed our walk - as usual - to be able to stop at the local pub for lunch. The Kings Head is a charming little establishment that was made all the more attractive to me by the horse tethered out the front. 

Kevin considering the cask ales

Fed and watered, after lunch we continued our ascent of Holmbury Hill, past what must be one of England's most beautifully situated cricket grounds.

I do love a bit of topiary

A quintessentially English scene - a county cricket match

And eventually we reached the top of the hill. At 261 metres it's not exactly Everest but the walker is rewarded with beautiful views across The Weald.

Days like this serve to remind me how lucky we are to live in Surrey. I truly love this county and never tire of its woods, its rolling green hills and its panoramic views.

And now I have Autumn to look forward to, when much of the green will be transformed into jewel colours of ruby and amber. Stay tuned for more of Surrey's glories.

Until next time,
- Maree  xo