The Route
This gentle loop links two of the National Trust's best-known Surrey properties. Starting from the car park at Ranmore Common, the walk heads south-east through beech and oak woodland along the North Downs ridge. The path follows well-maintained tracks through the trees, with occasional glimpses of the Mole Valley below.
After about 2 miles, the route drops into the Polesden Lacey estate, entering through the parkland above the walled rose garden. You can extend the walk by exploring the formal gardens (entry charge for non-NT members), or simply follow the estate path around the perimeter. The house itself is visible from the walk. The return leg curves back north through Yew Tree Farm and along quiet woodland rides to Ranmore.
What You'll See
Ranmore Common is ancient woodland, part of the Surrey Hills AONB. The beech trees are particularly impressive – tall, columnar trunks rising from a carpet of leaf litter. Bluebells appear in late April. Woodpeckers, treecreepers, and tawny owls are resident. The common sits on the chalk of the North Downs, and wildflowers grow in the clearings: cowslips, wild orchids, and meadow cranesbill.
Polesden Lacey's 1,400-acre estate spreads across a chalk valley. The south-facing terrace walk gives views across the Mole Valley. The rose garden holds over 2,500 roses and is at its peak in June and July.
Getting There
Ranmore Common car park is off Ranmore Common Road between Dorking and Polesden Lacey. Free parking. Box Hill & Westhumble station is about 1.5 miles from the start. The terrain is mostly gentle, with good paths throughout – this is one of the more accessible walks in the Surrey Hills. The Polesden Lacey café is open to walkers (you don't need to pay the house entry charge to use it).
