Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) covers approximately 422 square kilometers in the county of Surrey. It features gently undulating hills formed mainly of chalk, mixed with heathland, woodlands, and rich farmland. The area is characterized by iconic ridgelines such as the North Downs, Box Hill, and Leith Hill, the latter being the highest point in southeast England at 294 meters. The landscape supports diverse habitats including ancient beech and oak forests, heath, and chalk grasslands, which offer refuge to rare flora and fauna, such as the white admiral butterfly and dormice. Historically, the hills have been inhabited since prehistoric times with numerous archaeological sites, including Iron Age hill forts and Roman roads. Visitors enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and paragliding. Notable landmarks include Box Hill with its panoramic viewpoints, the historic villages of Shere and Gomshall, and the Greensand Way long-distance trail. The area is popular with photographers and nature lovers due to its scenic features and abundant wildlife. Its proximity to London makes Surrey Hills AONB a favored weekend destination to experience both quiet countryside and outdoor recreation. The AONB is managed to preserve its natural beauty, biodiversity, and cultural heritage while promoting sustainable tourism and community engagement.
