Bluebell Wood and Banstead Woods Circular
Surrey
Dog friendly throughout, this short Banstead Woods circular is one of the best early-season walks in Surrey, a medieval deer park and ancient woodland carpeted with bluebells in late April and May. The Narnia Trail threads between the beech and oak, with wood-carved Aslan, Lucy and the White Witch to spot along the way, keeping children and dogs equally entertained.
Dogs can be off-lead through most of the woodland but must be put back on lead for the final 400-metre section across the flower meadow where Sussex cattle graze for conservation. The terrain is soft woodland path with one gentle rise, and it handles most weather well thanks to its well-drained greensand soils. Parking is free at Holly Lane car park (CR5 3NR) with a 1.9m height barrier.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 4.8 km (3.0 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 1 hr 25 min
- Walk Type
- Woodland
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- High
- Livestock Risk
- Low
- Facilities
- None on site; cafes and pubs in Chipstead village a short drive away.
- Parking
- Free parking at Holly Lane car park, Chipstead (CR5 3NR); 1.9m height barrier in place.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bluebell Wood and Banstead Woods Circular dog friendly?
Bluebell Wood and Banstead Woods Circular is rated 9 out of 10 for dog friendliness, making it one of the most welcoming walks in Surrey. Dogs are welcome throughout the route, whether you're exploring the ancient woodland paths or following the Narnia Trail through the beech and oak trees.
Can dogs be off lead at Bluebell Wood and Banstead Woods Circular?
Dogs can roam off lead through most of the woodland, which makes up the majority of the route. The one exception is the final 400-metre section across the flower meadow, where Sussex cattle graze for conservation purposes — leads are required here.
What should I know before visiting Bluebell Wood and Banstead Woods Circular with my dog?
The terrain is soft woodland path with one gentle rise, and the well-drained greensand soils mean it holds up well in most weather conditions. Parking is free at Holly Lane car park (CR5 3NR), but note there is a 1.9m height barrier, so taller vehicles won't be able to use it. There are no facilities on site, but cafes and pubs in nearby Chipstead village are just a short drive away if you need a post-walk refreshment.
What’s Nearby?
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