Attractions and Places To See around Chelsham and Farleigh - Top 20

The area is rich in natural beauty, offering extensive woodlands like Greatpark Wood, Littlepark Wood, Puplet Wood, and Frith Woods. You can also visit Selsdon Nature Reserve for more immersion in nature. Hutchinson's Bank is notable for its butterfly population and offers scenic views over the downs. In springtime, Great Farleigh Green is known for its beautiful display of bluebells.

Yes, Chelsham and Farleigh is well-suited for walking and hiking. Popular routes include the Marden Park Forest Trail, Selsdon Wood Trail, and Beddlestead Valley. For more options, you can explore the hiking guide for Chelsham and Farleigh, which features trails like the 'Selsdon Wood loop from Selsdon Wood' which is rated as easy.

Cyclists can enjoy several routes, including the challenging Col du Skelly (Beddlestead Lane climb), known for its inconsistency and length. Another popular choice is Farthing Downs Scenic Road, which offers views of the city and free-roaming cattle. The Farleigh Chalk Gravel Track also provides a suitable route for gravel cyclists. You can find more road cycling options in the road cycling guide for the area.

High vantage points in the area provide impressive views, including over central London. Specific spots include Farthing Downs Scenic Road, which offers distant city views, and Skid Hill Lane View, known for its incredible vistas. Hutchinson's Bank also provides scenic views over the downs.

The area has a rich history. You can visit St Mary's Church in Farleigh, a medieval church, and St Leonard's Church in Chelsham, a 13th-century church. The site of the former Croydon Mental Hospital retains its Grade II listed clock tower. Additionally, Chartwell House, the former home of Winston Churchill, is nearby and offers insight into his life.

Yes, there are options for families. Skid Hill Lane View is categorized as family-friendly, offering pleasant views. Chartwell House, while a historical site, is also considered family-friendly and offers gardens to explore. The numerous woods and nature reserves provide great opportunities for family walks and outdoor exploration.

Spring is particularly beautiful, especially for seeing the bluebells at Great Farleigh Green. However, the area's woodlands and trails are enjoyable throughout the year. For specific outdoor activities like hiking or cycling, checking local weather conditions is always recommended.

The Harrow Inn, a local pub, is often cited as a convenient starting point for various walks in the area, making it a good option for refreshments before or after your outdoor activities.

Beyond the main highlights, you can discover medieval earthworks in Holt Wood and Henley Wood, thought to be associated with ancient manors. Coal Tax Post No. 42, an interesting historical marker from the 1860s, also offers a glimpse into the region's past.

Visitors appreciate that the road is very quiet with little motor traffic, making it ideal for cycling. The climb itself, Col du Skelly (Beddlestead Lane climb), is considered a good test due to its inconsistency and length, offering a challenging but fun balancing act for cyclists. There's also a monument, Col du Skelly Monument, dedicated to a cyclist, adding a unique touch to the route.

Farthing Downs Scenic Road is loved for its great views of the city in the distance and the unique experience of cattle roaming free. It's described as a wonderful cycling route, perfect on a clear, sunny day, and a quiet, unexpected scenic road just off the main thoroughfare.

Yes, Chartwell House was the home of Sir Winston Churchill and his family from 1922 until shortly before his death. The rooms are preserved as they were, and the gardens are as he designed them, offering a great insight into his life. Entry to the house and gardens requires a fee, and you can find more information on the National Trust website.