Events

Visit the Chilworth Gunpowder Mills followed by an optional lunch at Percy Arms Pub

16th April 2026, 10:00 - 13:00

Visit the Chilworth Gunpowder Mills

GU4 8NP

Thursday 16 April 2026

10am – 1pm

followed by an optional lunch at Percy Arms Pub

Ken Bare, our former Vice President will be leading a guided tour around the historic ruins of the Chilworth Gunpowder Mills, followed by an optional lunch at the Percy Arms Chilworth. This tour complements the talk given on 19th March.

Chilworth Gunpowder Mills have a fascinating history covering 300 years of working plus a further century of interest since manufacturing ceased after WW1. Ken has been visiting the site for many years and has interacted with several other guides and experts on the topic. In addition, he has carried out his own research and is now recognised by BBC Radio and others as having significant knowledge of the site.

On this walk, we will visit the location of some of the 19th century structures which still exist and learn about the layout of the site from its earliest days. We will also talk about some of the innovations which evolved during the industrial activity here – plus some of the rather frequent explosions!

Weather permitting, we will extend the walk to include the adjacent vineyard plus the original “Lower Works” which are rarely included in typical group visits.

This walk is classed as easy.  The 2.5 miles is on tracks, some of which could be muddy after rain. There are no significant slopes.  Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear sturdy footwear.

This walk is not suitable for those with mobility issues as there are small kissing gates to negotiate and some uneven paths.

Well behaved dogs are welcome.

Cost to Members: £ 6.00
Cost to Non-members: £ 8.00

Some of us will be having lunch at the Percy Arms afterwards and if you would like to join us, please make your own arrangements.  You may access their website here.

Deadline for booking 13 April 2026

Any enquiries please contact us at info@surreyhillssociety.org.

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