My happy places have always been in the sea or amongst the trees. I’m an island girl through and through which is why I love where I live. We are spoilt for parks and green spaces. During national lockdown my family and I learnt to appreciate the green spaces all the more for having it. We explored a few during lockdown. Forest bathing has been accessible green therapy which did wonders for our mental health. As a non-driver, I value the fact that many of Surrey’s places of interest are accessible by public transport. Come take a quiet walk with me in Banstead Woods.
Getting There
If you are driving to Banstead Woods, the Holly Lane car park will be your starting point. It can get busy in mornings as woods is popular with dog walkers and avid walkers. The nearest public transport stop is Chipstead Railway which is about 500km from the Holly Lane car park.
Spots Of Interest In Banstead Woods
The path my family and I enjoy the most is the one that takes us past The Lion The Witch And the Wardrobe Sculptures. After passing through the kissing gates which lead away from the road and car park walk up the hill until you reach the wood sculpted Lion, turn right and follow the path. Along the way little ones can forage for fallen branches, sticks and leaves to build a woodland den.
If you ramble up and down the slopes en route you’d either come The Wardrobe or The Witch next. The sculptures are opposite each other one a path, one up a slope and one down slop. However, after passing The Wardrobe you will pass a bench, after that you can carry on walking straight on or turn left and go hop the incline. We usually go up the incline because the kids are more likely to find a tree to climb there. Additionally, there’s a long bench carved out of a fallen tree that features woodland creatures, mushrooms and a fairy door. It’s sure to be popular with younger walkers.
TIP: visit during Spring to see the carpets of Bluebell blooms.
Length Of The Walk In Banstead Woods
The Banstead Woods Trail is a 3miles circular walk. Duration of the walk really depends on your speed. Trust me this is not a walk you’d want to rush. Enjoy a quiet walk. NB: The paths tend to get muddy after heavy or long periods of rain. Do wear proper walking shoes, wellies or trainers with good grip that you don’t mind getting muddy.
There are no cafes or toilets along the root. On occasion there may be a coffee van in the Holly Lane car part but that’s not certain all year round and as stated earlier there are not toilets so bear that in mind before setting off on your walk.
If you want more of challenge, take a look at my post on Farnham Heath, in autumn/winter. Alternatively, how about the Mole Gap Trail? Now that walk will take three hours. Wherever you wander, always take note of the weather conditions, dress accordingly and let someone know where you are going. Take you litter away, leave no trace.
Be sure to follow me on Instagram @xpatathome for my days out inspiration.
