Plan Your Own Surrey Three Peaks Challenge

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 is a practical introduction to three peaks challenges, without the technical demands or remote locations of the mountain versions.

Accessible from London and the South East, it's a strong option for groups looking for a serious walking challenge without travelling far from home.

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 guided 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

Registering at threepeakschallenge.org.uk (£6pp) provides:

• Certificate of completion
• Challenge guidance
• Online challenge tracking
• Fundraising support

Box Hill

224m - The first peak

Made widely known by the 2012 Olympics cycling road race, Box Hill offers views across the Mole Valley. The stepped zigzag path is an iconic Surrey landmark.

Route details →

Holmbury Hill

261m - The second peak

An Iron Age hill fort with panoramic views across the Weald. Less visited than its neighbours, Holmbury offers a peaceful stretch through ancient woodland.

Route details →

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.

Route details →

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:

1. Box Hill (start)
2. Holmbury Hill (via Ranmore and Abinger)
3. Leith Hill (the highest point)
4. Return to Box Hill

This saves the highest peak for the middle of the day when energy is good, with a scenic return leg.

Full route details & GPX download →

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)

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.

Training advice →

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.

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.

Yorkshire Three Peaks

24 miles through the Yorkshire Dales. Similar distance, more elevation (1,585m), and mountains.

Welsh Three Peaks

17 miles of walking but 2,334m of ascent - Snowdon, Cadair Idris and Pen y Fan.

National Three Peaks

The UK multi-peak format: Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in 24 hours.

Want a fully supported experience?

Our guided Surrey Three Peaks events include checkpoints with refreshments and professional support crew. This is useful if you're new to long-distance walking or want to focus on enjoying the day rather than logistics.

View guided event dates →