Top 20 Natural Monuments around Lodsworth

Hindhead Commons is a sprawling, 282-hectare nature reserve in Surrey, managed by the National Trust. Designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and part of the Surrey Hills National Landscape, it represents one of the region's most ecologically valuable and historically dramatic landscapes. The Landscape: Sitting roughly 250 meters above sea level, it features a rare, cooler microclimate that supports a rich mosaic of ancient woodland, valleys, and vibrant lowland heath. This habitat is a lifeline for threatened wildlife, including Exmoor ponies, adders, and rare ground-nesting birds like the nightjar. The Devil's Punch Bowl: This massive, spring-eroded sandstone amphitheater dominates the eastern side of the commons, offering sweeping views that stretch all the way to the London skyline on clear days. The Great Transformation: For decades, Hindhead Commons was physically severed in two by the roar of the old A3 highway. Following the construction of the Hindhead Tunnel directly beneath the common in 2011, the old road surface was completely removed, allowing nature to heal and creating peaceful, car-free trails for walkers and cyclists.

At the top of Highcombe Copse, along Highcombe Edge, the ancient woodland gives way to a breezy ridge. Here stands the granite Robertson Memorial obelisk, overlooking a sweeping, panoramic view of the Devil’s Punch Bowl. It marks a peaceful resting point before trails descend steeply into the valley.

The picnic area at the Devil's Punch Bowl provides an ideal outdoor setting to relax and dine before or after exploring the Surrey Hills. Located right next to the main Devil's Punchbowl Car Park, this family-friendly zone serves as the central hub for visitors preparing to take on the nearby walking trails. The area is beautifully integrated into the surrounding landscape, featuring open, grassy spots sheltered by mature trees.

Burton Mill Pond is part of the Burton Mill and Chingford Ponds Local Nature Reserve (LNR). Originating in the late 16th century to fuel a forge, the pond has a historical past. By the late 18th century, it played a vital role as part of a water mill for grinding corn, with the imposing structure by the road now standing as the remnants of the old mill. It's part of a fabulous landscape as you cycle along the road bordering its northeastern shore.

The current mill building dates from around 1780, although mills and forges have been exploiting the Downs spring water for at least 800 years. The mill's historic water-powered milling machine has been restored to working condition. Burton Mill is open to visitors on the Sunday of the National Mills Weekend in May and the National Heritage Weekend in September.

Burton Mill Pond is a beautiful place to visit. It is an atmospheric hammer pond and holding pond in the South Downs National Park, near Petworth, West Sussex. The pond is part of the Burton Mill and Chingford Ponds Local Nature Reserve (LNR) and the Burton Park Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), which are nationally important for their wetland habitats, rare plants, birdlife, and invertebrate populations.

A slightly long drag up here, but you will almost always be rewarded with beautiful views.

Burton Mill Pond is part of the Burton Mill and Chingford Ponds Local Nature Reserve (LNR). Enjoy the moment of calm as you pedal along the road skirting its north eastern shore. The pond was created in the late 16th century to power a forge. In the late 18th century the pond was part of a water mill for grinding corn. The large house by the road is the old mill.