Exploring Box Hill: A Hidden Gem for Photographers & Nature Lovers
Surrey, England’s most wooded county, is a place of natural beauty- with over 22% of its landscape covered in trees. Within this region is a standout gem: Box Hill.
Just a short trip from London, Box Hill is a scenic summit along the North Downs offering panoramic views, rich biodiversity, and a range of walking trails that make it perfect for both seasoned explorers and casual wanderers. Whether you’re a photographer looking to get some scenic shots, or simply someone looking to explore outside the city, this spot is perfect.
Getting there is easy: take a train to Box Hill & Westhumble Station and follow the trails up from the base, or drive straight to the main car park at the top (Swiss Cottage, Zig Zag Rd, Tadworth KT20 7LB). I opted to drive and was greeted at the summit by a cosy café, a small gift shop, and one of the most rewarding views Surrey has to offer.
Yew Woodlands
At the summit and along the way, you'll come across signposts pointing to several trails- but one of my personal favourites is the Stepping Stones Walk. This trail takes you through ancient yew woodlands, down to the iconic stepping stones, then over a footbridge before looping back up.
The trees in the yew woodlands are part of a rare and ancient habitat, internationally recognised for their ecological importance. The moment you step into the woods, there’s a noticeable shift in atmosphere. You can feel the age of the place- like the forest is holding stories from long before our time.
As a photographer and explorer, it’s a dream. The texture of the trees are a spectacle, light often breaks through the branches casting a nostalgic scene, and the constant chirping of the birds add to the atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you instinctively slow down, and so I’d recommend pausing every so often to take it all in. A tip: look through the trees; the filtered views of the surrounding countryside are perfect for framing a shot.
The Iconic Stepping Stones
As you reach the end of the woodland trail, you’ll hear the sound of flowing water- an indication that you’re close to the stepping stones. Nestled across the River Mole, these stones were originally placed- most likely in the mid-19th century- to help visitors cross and explore more of Box Hill’s beauty. Today, they remain one of the area’s most iconic features.
When I arrived, I was genuinely taken aback. The sound of the river flowing and the sunlight’s reflections off the water create a tranquil scene. It's a popular spot, often filled with dog walkers, hikers, and casual visitors all drawn by the same sense of natural charm.
I came with the intention of capturing the scene through long exposure photography, hoping to give the water that soft and silky aesthetic. To achieve this, I set my shutter speed to around 10 seconds and used an ND filter to keep the exposure balanced in daylight. The result? An image that captures the scene’s ethereal quality.
If you're planning to photograph the stepping stones, I highly recommend coming early in the morning. You'll beat the crowds, catch softer light, and be able to fully soak in the peaceful energy of the place before the day begins.
Besides the stepping stones, the surrounding area is equally magnificent, so don’t forget to explore the rest of the River Mole.
The Stepping Stones Footbridge
Continue along the riverside path for about five minutes, and you’ll come to the footbridge. Installed in 1992, this bridge was built to offer a safer way to cross the River Mole and stands as a tribute to members of the Ramblers Association who lost their lives during World War II.
Framed by trees and wildflowers, the footbridge is a beautiful subject in its own right and there’s no shortage of compositions to experiment with.
Photography tip: try shooting from different angles to really showcase the bridge’s character. If you're feeling adventurous, carefully make your way beneath it (safely 😅) and you’ll discover a completely different perspective.
Once you’re done exploring, it’s time to head back the way you came- yes, that means climbing all the steps you just descended (this is where the real workout begins!). Take your time and enjoy the views as you make your way back up.
Once you reach the summit, pause again at the scenic viewpoint to soak it all in one last time. And don’t forget to stop by the café- you’ve earned it. I treated myself to the quiche, and let me tell you, it was absolutely delicious.
Thanks for reading! Box Hill truly is a hidden gem- whether you're a photographer, a casual wanderer, or a hiker, there's something here for you to enjoy.
If you'd like a closer look at how I explored the area and captured my shots, check out my YouTube video, where I walk you through the visuals, my process, and the experience behind the lens.