The Route
The Greensand Way runs 108 miles from Haslemere in Surrey to Hamstreet in Kent, following the Greensand ridge – a band of sandstone that runs parallel to and south of the North Downs. The Surrey section covers roughly 57 miles, from Haslemere east through the heart of the county.
The trail passes through some of the most varied terrain in Surrey. From Haslemere, it climbs to Hindhead and the Devil's Punch Bowl, then heads east through Hascombe, Winterfold, and Pitch Hill to Holmbury Hill (261 metres) and Leith Hill (294 metres) – the highest points on the route. East of Leith Hill, the path descends through Friday Street and Abinger to Dorking, before climbing again to Reigate Hill and continuing towards Kent.
What You'll See
The Greensand ridge offers a completely different character from the chalk of the North Downs. The sandy soil supports heathland, pine woodland, and birch forest rather than chalk grassland. The landscape feels wilder and more wooded. Leith Hill's tower gives 360-degree views. Holmbury Hill has an Iron Age hillfort. The Devil's Punch Bowl is one of the most dramatic landforms in the south-east.
Between the high points, the trail passes through quiet farmland, hop gardens, and villages. Shamley Green, Shere, and Friday Street are among the most attractive stopping points. The contrast between the sandy ridgetop paths and the clay lowlands is constant – the views alternate between open heathland panoramas and enclosed woodland glades.
Getting There
Stations at Haslemere, Godalming, Gomshall, Dorking, and Reigate provide access to different sections. The Greensand Way is less well-known than the North Downs Way, which means quieter paths and fewer crowds. Waymarking uses the GW symbol on posts and stiles. The sandy paths can be heavy going after rain but generally drain faster than clay. Accommodation is available in the villages along the route, though less plentiful than on the North Downs Way.
