This unique walk is home to some of Surrey’s most beautiful views and its natural feature is rumoured to have biblical connections.
The Devil’s Punch Bowl loop takes you around the iconic Devil’s Punch Bowl with spectacular views across open heathland.
Its unique name is derived from legend and myth associated with the area. Rumours say that the Devil scooped up a handful of earth and hurled it at Thor, God of Thunder, the dipped space that remains is the Devil’s Punch Bowl.
The natural amphitheatre is a rare but incredible sight to see – full of fauna and flora, plants such as heather and gorse burn bright red and gold during the autumn months.
While on your walk, you should keep your eye out for wildlife as there is an exciting array of creatures you may be able to spot such as woodpeckers.
The walk starts at Hindhead and the nature you’ll see is unbeatable. One visitor on Tripadvisor said: “What a beautiful place this is. It is a stunning landscape for a trek, hike or leisurely walk.
“The views across the Surrey countryside are amazing at any time of the year but perhaps best when it’s the Autumn colours on display. Well worth spending a few hours immersed in nature.”
Views across the Punch Bowl are loved by tourists and locals alike – if you venture further into the land, you can see incredible scenery from Highcombe Edge and Gibbet Hill.
Another visitor on Tripadvisor called the walk the “best walk in Surrey”. He said: “It is easy to park at the Devil’s Punch Bowl car park – there is a small fee for parking but it goes to the National Trust.
“Take the Hidden Hindhead Trail (pink signs). Amazing views from Surrey’s second highest point – wonderful views over the Devil’s Punchbowl and the Surrey Hills.
“We saw all the key attractions, namely the cross on Gibbets Hill, the Sailors’ Stone and the stone floor of the Temple of the Four Winds.
“The path is steep in places and you need hard-soled shoes. In the wet [weather] wellies would be useful. The walk takes about two hours but the variations are wonderful. Woodland, heather heath and lakes – best walk in Surrey! The view from Gibbets Hill is amazing!”
If you’re hoping to get out into nature one weekend before the weather gets colder, this could be the perfect place for you.
