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Parks #6 in Dorking

Norbury Park

4.6 · 1,106 reviews
Quiet, rural, and ecologically diverse
Norbury Park, Young Street, Leatherhead Surrey KT22 9DX, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The park contains one of the largest remaining stands of yew trees in the United Kingdom.

2

The area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) specifically protected for its rich chalk grassland biodiversity.

3

Norbury Park House, situated on the estate, was a renowned hub for 18th-century writers and artists including Fanny Burney.

4

The River Mole cuts through the estate, creating a unique geological feature where the river disappears into swallow holes during dry periods.

5

The landscape has been significantly influenced by centuries of traditional coppicing, which is still practiced to maintain woodland health.

Overview

Norbury Park is a 1,340-acre landscape managed by the Surrey Wildlife Trust, situated within the Surrey Hills National Landscape. The estate features a mosaic of ancient semi-natural woodland, chalk grassland, and active farmland. It is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its diverse invertebrate populations and rare chalk-dwelling flora. The park is characterized by its hilly topography, providing elevated viewpoints over the Mole Valley. Visitors can access a network of public bridleways and footpaths that traverse the central plateau and wooded valleys. The site is a working farm environment, requiring caution regarding livestock and agricultural machinery. Historical features include remnants of the 18th-century parkland designed during the occupation of Norbury Park House. The terrain varies from steep chalk slopes to dense forest canopy, supporting populations of woodpeckers and diverse butterfly species.

Photo spot

The elevated ridge overlooking the Mole Valley provides the best panoramic views of the surrounding Surrey Hills.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots as the chalk paths become extremely slippery and muddy after rainfall.

Keep dogs on a lead at all times, as the park contains active farmland with grazing livestock.

Download an offline map, as mobile phone signal is inconsistent within the wooded valleys.

What to avoid

Attempting to park on the verges of Young Street, which is dangerous; use the designated car park provided by Surrey Wildlife Trust.

Etiquette

Strictly follow the Countryside Code: take all litter home, keep to marked paths, and do not disturb wildlife or livestock.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-4 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring for wildflower blooms on the chalk slopes or autumn for seasonal foliage colors.
Address
Norbury Park, Young Street, Leatherhead Surrey KT22 9DX, United Kingdom
51.276, -0.340
Get directions
Details
Terrain typeChalk grassland and ancient woodland
Primary activityHiking and nature observation

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-4 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring for wildflower blooms on the chalk slopes or autumn for seasonal foliage colors..

The elevated ridge overlooking the Mole Valley provides the best panoramic views of the surrounding Surrey Hills.

Close by you'll find National Trust - Box Hill, National Trust - Polesden Lacey, Stepping Stones Walk.