North Downs Way Stage 3 Westhumble to Merstham

This walk starts from the bottom of Box Hill near the village of West Humble. After crossing the river Mole by the famous stepping stones or depending on the water level by the foot bridge, you face one of the steepest ascents along the North Downs Way  to the summit of the famous beauty spot of Box Hill ( assisted by over 270 steps). From  here  there are great views  towards Dorking and Reigate. The path is  undulating and goes past  some disused quarries, including Brocham Lime Works which has since been reclaimed by nature and is a Site of Special Scientific interest due to its variety of bats.  The path then  drops down to join Pilgrims way for several miles, before again climbing Jupiter Hill, Colley Hill and Reigate Hill and reaching a more gentle stretch through and onwards from  Gatton Park.  Inglis Folly, Reigate Fort and Millennium stones are some of the features along the path.  It goes through a golf course before the end of this section in  Merstham.  Much of the walk is woody but there are excellent views to be had. The path may be muddy. It will be a picnic lunch and there will be a  toilets and a potential tea stop in Gatton Park.