The Route
Chilworth station provides a convenient starting point on the Guildford to Dorking line. From the station, the walk heads south past the ruins of Chilworth Gunpowder Mills – one of the most important munitions sites in English history, producing gunpowder from the 1620s until the First World War. The remains are a Scheduled Monument, scattered through the woods along the Tillingbourne stream.
From the mills, the path climbs steeply through woodland to the summit of St Martha's Hill (175 metres). The church at the top, St Martha-on-the-Hill, sits on the line of the Pilgrims' Way and has been a place of worship since at least the 12th century. The building itself dates from the Norman period, restored in the 1840s. The return route follows the North Downs Way east before descending back through Blackheath and Chilworth.
What You'll See
The views from St Martha's summit are some of the best in central Surrey. To the south, the Greensand ridge and the Weald stretch to the horizon. To the north, the chalk ridge of the North Downs is visible. The churchyard is a peaceful spot, sheltered by ancient yews.
The Chilworth Gunpowder Mills are fascinating in their own right. Channels, sluices, and building foundations survive in the woodland. The site produced powder for the East India Company, the Napoleonic Wars, and both World Wars. Interpretive boards along the path explain the history.
Getting There
Chilworth station (Southern Railway) is the most practical access point. By car, there is limited parking near the station. The climb to St Martha's is steep but short – about 300 metres of ascent over half a mile. The sandy Greensand paths drain well, making this a good walk even after rain. No refreshments on the route itself, but Chilworth has a village shop and Shere is a short drive away.
