Events

Follow the Deepdene Trail

18th May 2017, 10:00 - 14:00

The Deepdene Trail explores a fascinating landscape full of history, nature and hidden treasures.  Shaped over hundreds of years by influential owners the estate has been repaired, reawakened and reconnected by Mole Valley District Council. The project has been possible thanks to a generous grant of £1 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Friends of Deepdene volunteers and a range of other partners including our Society.

We are very fortunate to have some members of the Deepdene Trail team to give us a guided tour of the heart of the Deepdene Estate. We will explore the enchanting gardens with its hidden historic features then climb through the woodland to the Terrace for some stunning views of this Grade II* registered landscape. Dropping back down past the Golf Club we will take a final trip out to the newly restored Hope Mausoleum with an exclusive look inside this 200 year old tomb. It is then a short walk back to the Golf Club for a finger buffet lunch and great views across Chart Park.  The story of the Deepdene Trail follows over 300 years of the rise and fall of the estate with a focus on famous owner Thomas Hope but we will also touch on the work that has been done over the last year to get the Trail open and what the plans are as the project continues.

The walk should take 1 ½ to 2 hours at a leisurely pace with plenty of stops to explore the story of the Deepdene.  It does contain steep and uneven ground and two very short flights of steps (it is possible to walk on the slope instead but it is reasonably steep). The total distance is approximately 2 miles.  Sturdy footwear is recommended, particularly if there has been rain – the majority of the paths used on this walk have packed gravel surfaces but there are a couple of unsurfaced sections which may get a bit muddy.  Please wear suitable clothing for the prevailing weather conditions as it is largely an outdoor event.

After lunch, there is an option to walk the longer part of the trail which leads to Betchworth Castle taking approximately 2 hours.  This route includes steep and uneven ground, short sections walking on residential roads and Punchbowl Lane (no pavement) and stiles to climb.  The distance is in the region of 5 miles for the round trip.  Please indicate on the booking form if you are interested in this extended tour.

The cost of the event will be £14 for members, and £16 for non-members which will include coffee and lunch, and a donation to the Deepdene Trail project.

If you would like to join us, please book online at the bottom of the page OR complete and return the downloadable booking form before Friday 12th May 2017.  Children could come on this visit if they can manage the walk, but the event is not designed for them.  Well behaved dogs on leads would be welcome, but would not be allowed into the golf club.  Please include your e-mail address or a stamped addressed envelope so you may be sent full details, directions and locations for the visit.

Please note that the Surrey Hills Society and its Event partners accept no responsibility for any loss, damage or personal injury during events. Participants are requested to wear appropriate clothing and footwear and take due care and attention.
The Society uses members’ photographs on social media and on our website. If you are not happy to have your photo taken during this event, please notify us in writing prior to the event and make the event organiser aware on the day.

BOOKING FORM


By continuing and making a booking you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to the Terms & Conditions specified in our Cancellation Policy and Responsibility Statement, both of which can be viewed by clicking here


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