Kingston to Box Hill Walking Route
Connecting the urban heart of Kingston upon Thames to the scenic heights of the North Downs, this walking route offers a diverse transition from riverside paths to ancient Roman roads. The journey begins in the town centre of Kingston and concludes at the Box Hill & Westhumble railway station, providing a comprehensive cross-section of the Surrey landscape.
Key Facts
- Start Point: Kingston upon Thames town centre.
- End Point: Box Hill & Westhumble railway station.
- Primary Waterway: Hogsmill River.
- Key Landmarks: Horton Country Park, Epsom Common, and Stane Street.
- Terrain: Urban fringes, rural fields, elevated commons, and downhill slopes.
The Journey from Kingston to Ewell
The initial stage of the route closely follows the banks of the Hogsmill River, a tributary that winds through the urban fringes of Kingston. As walkers head south, the path passes Berrylands railway station before transitioning into a more rural environment. Here, the trail leads through open fields, crossing under the South West railway line and passing the A3.
A paved section accompanies the road through Old Malden. After crossing the A240 near the Tolworth centre, the route diverges from the Hogsmill River. Walkers then navigate a narrow green strip situated between residential houses and alongside a stream to reach Horton Country Park in Ewell.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Traversing the Commons and Parks
Upon entering Horton Country Park, the route utilizes a wide path that passes the site of the former West Park Hospital. The journey continues upward across the elevated terrain of Epsom Common, providing a change in perspective before the path crosses the Sutton and Mole Valley railway lines to enter Ashtead Park.
After skirting the edge of Ashtead, the route begins its ascent toward the North Downs, a ridge of chalk hills that characterizes the landscape of Southeast England.
The Ascent to Box Hill and Westhumble
The final leg of the journey involves crossing the M25 motorway and joining Stane Street, an ancient Roman Road. This historic path leads walkers through Tyrrell's Wood and across Mickleham Downs.
For those returning on foot, a detour to the neighboring Box Hill is recommended. Otherwise, the route continues south and then west to intersect with the A24 and the North Downs Way. The journey concludes after a final 200-metre stretch west to reach the Box Hill & Westhumble railway station on Chapel Lane.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Route Summary Table
| Segment | Key Features | Notable Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| Urban/Riverside | Hogsmill River banks | Berrylands Station, Old Malden |
| Green Belt | Narrow strips and parks | Horton Country Park, West Park Hospital |
| Elevated Terrain | Commons and railway crossings | Epsom Common, Ashtead Park |
| Highlands | Roman Road and Downs | Stane Street, Mickleham Downs, Box Hill |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the walking route start and end?
The route begins in Kingston upon Thames town centre and finishes at the Box Hill & Westhumble railway station.
Which river does the path follow in the early stages?
The path follows the banks of the Hogsmill River as it leaves the urban areas of Kingston.
What historical road is part of this route?
The route follows Stane Street, which is an ancient Roman Road, through Tyrrell's Wood and Mickleham Downs.
Does the route pass through any country parks?
Yes, the route passes through Horton Country Park in Ewell and Ashtead Park.
How do I reach the final destination from the North Downs Way?
Once you reach the North Downs Way via the A24, continue west for approximately 200 metres to arrive at the Box Hill & Westhumble railway station.