Wotton, Broadmoor & Abinger Commons

On a clear day, from the summit of Leith Hill and its Georgian tower, it is possible to see seven counties and extensive views across the Low Weald to the South Downs and the sea.

The highest point in south east England, Leith Hill sits upon the Greensand Ridge that runs parallel with the North Downs through Surrey.

Leith Hill and the surrounding commons of Wotton and Abinger are amply provided with numerous car parks and some handy pubs in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  Many footpaths and bridleways cover the several thousand acres of mixed woodland and heathland, making it easy to explore by foot, horse or bike.

There are limited facilities for disabled visitors and arrangements for access can be made with the Ranger.  There are no public conveniences provided in any of the car parks.

Fire is an ever present risk in an area predominately given over to forestry, consequently camping and the lighting of fires is prohibited, other than in a few official campsites in the locality.

This unspoilt countryside is largely owned by Forest Enterprise, The National Trust and The Wotton Estate.

Whilst the majority of the land is open for public recreation, visitors will be expected to abide by the byelaws and The Countryside Code and be mindful of forestry and conservation operations that may be in progress from time to time.

In an ever changing landscape, an Ordnance Survey map will prove useful, particularly to mountain bike and horse riders who are restricted to using bridleways.

Dog owners will be expected to have dogs on a lead, in order to protect wildlife, farm animals and game especially during the breeding season.

Places of interest also worth visiting in the area, include :-

Friday Street, Abinger Bottom and Broadmoor Bottom on the headwaters of The Tillingbourne River.

Wotton, Abinger and Broadmoor Commons and Pasturewood, an area of about a thousand acres, is a part of The Wotton Estate, open to public access by agreement with the Evelyn Family as the land owner and Surrey County Council and subsequently Surrey Wildlife Trust.

Car parks are located at Friday Street, Leith Hill Lane and Sheephouse Lane, near Holmbury St Mary.