About the event

Howell Hill nature reserve is an area of chalk downland and is managed on behalf of Surrey County Council. The chalk spoil heaps on Howell Hill were created in the 1960s when the adjoining school playing fields were levelled. The area was left unmanaged for many years, but now shows a great deal of variety for such a small site.

Some 260 kinds of flowering plants have been recorded, including large colonies of mouse-eared hawkweed and kidney vetch, bee, common spotted, fragrant, pyramidal and white helleborine orchids as well as two species of broomrape.

The area supports many anthills, which provide good feeding for green woodpeckers. A variety of insects and other invertebrates occur and there are more than 20 different kind of butterfly including green hairstreak and small blue.

The walk is approximately 1.5 miles on footpaths and tracks with some minor obstacles and steps. Walking boots are recommended. We will walk at a gentle pace with lots of opportunities to stop and ask questions.