The best walks and hikes around Horley

Yes, there's a wide variety of options. You can explore over 270 hiking routes around Horley, with a roughly even split between easy and moderate trails, ensuring there's something for every fitness level.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the mix of gentle riverside paths along the River Mole, the quiet woodlands, and the well-maintained footpaths that cross through scenic farmland.

Absolutely. Circular walks are very popular in the area. A great example is the Wroxton Duck Pond – Wroxton Abbey Dovecote Tower loop from Horley, which offers a moderate journey through varied landscapes. Many other loops explore the countryside around Charlwood and Lowfield Heath.

Yes, Horley is a great place for hiking with dogs. Many trails pass through open spaces and parks. Riverside Garden Park is a popular spot for local dog walkers, and the wider network of public footpaths offers plenty of room for your four-legged friend to explore. Just be mindful of livestock in fields and local signage.

For an easy and accessible walk suitable for the whole family, consider the trails within Riverside Garden Park. It features leafy paths, a small lake, and benches. Another excellent option is a visit to Earlswood Common, which offers leisurely walks around its lakes.

The region is perfect for walks that start or end at a traditional pub. Several routes incorporate the historic Ye Olde Six Bells, a 15th-century pub with a riverside garden, making it an ideal stop after a walk along the River Mole.

Many trails around Horley are rich in history. The East Horley Circular Walk, for instance, takes you past WWII pillboxes and the historic site of Thunderfield Castle. For a different kind of historical scenery, the Wroxton Abbey Dovecote Tower – Wroxton Obelisk loop from Wroxton explores beautiful parkland with historic structures.

For expansive views, you might consider a short trip to the nearby Surrey Hills AONB. Locally, the View from Edgehill – Edgehill Castle (Tower) loop from Warmington CP is a moderate hike that includes ascents to rewarding viewpoints.

The River Mole provides the backdrop for many of the area's most picturesque walks. You can find several routes of varying difficulty that follow the river through open meadows and wooded sections, offering a peaceful hiking experience.

Parking availability depends on your chosen trailhead. For walks in local parks, places like Riverside Garden Park and Buchan Country Park have their own car parks. For other routes, you may find on-street parking in villages or designated lay-bys. Always check local restrictions before you park.

Yes, Horley's train station provides good access to the town and nearby trailheads. National Cycle Route 21 also passes through Horley, offering a greener way to reach the start of your walk if you're cycling from a nearby town like Redhill.

While most trails are easy to moderate, you can find more challenging options. The Battle of Edgehill Site – Woodland Path in the Cotswolds loop from Hornton is a longer, moderate route of over 13 km. For more significant climbs, the nearby Surrey Hills offer more demanding terrain.