Today’s statistics: 13.5 miles, ascent 1137′, descent 1281′
Last night’s B&B, Highfield House, had pulled us off the North Downs Way toward the top of the nearby Pewley Hill. This morning we then walked through Pewley Down on our path back to the NDW.
After Pewley we had a long, gentle descent to rejoin the North Downs Way.
As we moved along several woodland trails, we were followed by a delightful chorus of birdsongs. At the pinnacle of another hill, sat St. Martha’s Hill Church with a commanding view of the area.
The forested trails later opened out to present far-reaching views from Albury Downs. It is said that the chalk-filled earth of the North Downs truly
We soon arrived at Newland’s Corner with its visitor center and food kiosk.
A small monument across the car park reflected sentiments that anyone could feel while gazing out over this lovely countryside.
Soon, the path took us back into the woods.
In 1940 the North Downs became a vital area of national defense. Anticipating a German invasion and to prevent advancing armies from reaching London, the Home Guard set up over 100 pillboxes as a final defense of the capitol, a “stop line”. Over half of these still remain to remind the English of these civilians who were willing to stand in the breach for the good of their country.
I couldn’t resist climbing inside.
The white chalk soil was an indicator that we were on the downs.
Our day’s walk was nearly finished as we spied Dorking in the distance.
A very welcome food truck was waiting when we arrived at Ranmore.
To reach our night’s lodgings we had to descend through vineyards to Denbies Guest House and Wine Estate.
The Wine Estate and the food were quite a treat. Unfortunately, it appeared that landscape construction surrounded our B&B and staying there one night was enough. Lodgers to follow us will enjoy the completed project.
