The Ranmore Ridge
Ranmore Common occupies a long wooded ridge running west from Box Hill, and the road across it provides some of the finest quiet cycling in the Dorking area. The climb from the Dorking side via Ranmore Road rises steadily through a canopy of beech and oak, gaining around 150 metres over three kilometres. The gradient is consistent at four to six per cent, making it a satisfying but not brutal ascent.
The ridge road itself is a joy to ride: smooth tarmac, light traffic and dappled sunlight filtering through the tree canopy. St Barnabas Church, designed by George Gilbert Scott, stands prominently on the ridge and makes a good landmark. Occasional gaps in the trees offer glimpses south across the Weald.
Completing the Loop
From the western end of Ranmore Common, descend via Hogden Lane to Westcott, a quiet village with The Crown pub for refreshments. The return to Dorking follows the A25 briefly before turning onto quieter roads through the Denbies Wine Estate — England’s largest vineyard — which offers a café and wine-tasting if you fancy a post-ride treat.
The full loop can be extended eastward to connect with the Box Hill zigzag, creating a longer ride of around 40 kilometres. This is one of the most scenic rides in Surrey, particularly in spring when bluebells carpet the woodland floor, and in autumn when the beech trees put on a spectacular colour display.
