Plan Your Own Surrey Three Peaks Challenge
Everything you need to organise your own 23-mile walk through the stunning Surrey Hills.
The Surrey Three Peaks Challenge is a 23-mile circular walk summiting the three highest points in Surrey — Box Hill, Holmbury Hill and Leith Hill. It's an ideal introduction to three peaks challenges, offering beautiful countryside without the technical demands or remote locations of the mountain versions.
Accessible from London and the South East, it's perfect for groups looking for a serious walking challenge without travelling far from home.
Prefer a guided event?
Our Open Surrey Three Peaks includes professional guides, checkpoints with refreshments, and full support — £70 per person.
View Guided DatesThe Essentials
Your Team
The Surrey Three Peaks works well for groups of any size, from solo walkers to large corporate teams. The well-marked paths and accessible terrain make it suitable for most fitness levels.
If you'd like to walk with others, our open challenge dates bring together individuals and small groups.
Support Vehicle
Unlike the mountain challenges, a support vehicle isn't essential. The circular route and proximity to villages mean you're never far from civilisation.
However, a support vehicle can be useful for carrying extra kit and providing a retirement option for anyone struggling. The route crosses several roads where vehicle access is possible.
When to Go
The Surrey Three Peaks can be walked year-round. Spring and autumn offer the best conditions — cooler temperatures and beautiful colours. Summer can be hot for a 23-mile walk; winter days are short but the paths remain passable.
Start early (7–8am) to allow plenty of daylight, especially in autumn and winter.
Registration
Optional registration at threepeakschallenge.org.uk (£6pp) provides:
- Certificate of completion
- Challenge guidance
- Online challenge tracking
- Fundraising support
The Three Peaks
Total distance: 23 miles (37km). Total ascent: 1,060 metres.
Box Hill
224m — The famous first peak
Made famous by the 2012 Olympics cycling road race, Box Hill offers stunning views across the Mole Valley. The stepped zigzag path is an iconic Surrey landmark.
Holmbury Hill
261m — The hidden gem
An Iron Age hill fort with panoramic views across the Weald. Less visited than its neighbours, Holmbury offers a peaceful stretch through ancient woodland.
Leith Hill
294m — The highest point in South East England
Topped by an 18th-century tower, Leith Hill is the highest point in South East England. On clear days, views extend to the English Channel.
The Route
Start & Finish
Our recommended route starts and finishes at Box Hill, using the National Trust car park at the top of the zigzag road.
Postcode: KT20 7LB
Parking: Pay and display (free for National Trust members). The car park can fill up on sunny weekends — arrive early or consider the station alternative.
Route Direction
The standard route runs:
- Box Hill (start)
- Holmbury Hill (via Ranmore and Abinger)
- Leith Hill (the highest point)
- Return to Box Hill
This saves the highest peak for the middle of the day when energy is good, with a scenic return leg.
Getting There
By Train
Box Hill & Westhumble station is a short walk from the start. Direct trains run from London Victoria (approximately 50 minutes).
This is an excellent option for London-based groups — no driving required, and you can celebrate at the Stepping Stones pub after finishing.
By Car
Box Hill is just off the A24, easily accessible from:
- M25 Junction 9 (Leatherhead)
- A3 via Guildford
- Central London (approximately 1 hour)
Preparation
Training
The Surrey Three Peaks is an excellent stepping stone to more demanding challenges like the Yorkshire or National Three Peaks.
While less technical than mountain walks, 23 miles is still a serious distance. Build up with walks of 10–15 miles before attempting the full challenge.
Equipment
You don't need full mountain gear, but do bring:
- Comfortable walking shoes or boots
- Waterproof jacket
- Layered clothing
- Small backpack for food and water
- Fully charged phone (for navigation backup)
- Blister plasters
Navigation
The route follows well-established paths including sections of the North Downs Way and Greensand Way. Waymarking is generally good, but a map or GPS app is recommended.
OS Explorer 146 (Dorking, Box Hill & Reigate) covers the entire route.
Food & Refreshments
Unlike remote mountain challenges, you'll pass several refreshment options:
- Box Hill: National Trust cafe at the start/finish
- Abinger Hatch: Pub roughly halfway
- Leith Hill: Seasonal refreshment tower
Still carry your own water and snacks — don't rely entirely on cafes being open.
On the Day
Pacing
A comfortable pace for 23 miles:
- Box Hill to Holmbury Hill: 3–4 hours
- Holmbury Hill to Leith Hill: 2–3 hours
- Leith Hill to Box Hill: 3–4 hours
- Total: 8–11 hours
Factor in time for rest stops and refreshments.
Terrain
The route includes:
- Woodland paths (can be muddy after rain)
- Open hillside
- Some road sections
- Stepped climbs at Box Hill
Trail shoes are fine in dry conditions; boots recommended if it's been wet.
Accommodation
Most people complete the Surrey Three Peaks as a day trip from London or the South East. If you'd like to stay locally, there's accommodation in Dorking, Guildford and surrounding villages.
What's Next?
Completed the Surrey Three Peaks? You're ready for bigger challenges:
Yorkshire Three Peaks
24 miles through the stunning Yorkshire Dales. Similar distance, more elevation (1,585m), proper mountains.
Welsh Three Peaks
17 miles of walking but 2,334m of ascent — Snowdon, Cadair Idris and Pen y Fan.
National Three Peaks
The ultimate UK challenge — Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in 24 hours.
Want a fully supported experience?
Our guided Surrey Three Peaks events include checkpoints with refreshments, professional support crew, and a friendly group atmosphere — ideal if you're new to long-distance walking or want to focus on enjoying the day rather than logistics.