Best Hill Training and Hiking Routes Near London
Living in or around London doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the benefits of hill training. The South of England is full of hills that provide perfect terrain for improving your fitness, building strength, and enjoying the outdoors. Whether you’re a hiker, runner, or cyclist, these hills offer challenging climbs and stunning views, all within a short journey from London.
In my blog, i’ve got a whopping 60 hills for you to venture out onto, with accessible links to maps, spanning the South of England, contained within the following 4 areas of outstanding natural beauty (AONB)…
THE CHILTERNS
The Chiltern Hills are a range of hills and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) located in southern England, primarily within the counties of Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Oxfordshire, and Berkshire. The Chilterns are known for their distinctive rolling landscape, picturesque villages, and rich cultural and natural heritage. They are a popular destination for outdoor activities, especially hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching.
Geography and Landscape
Range: The Chilterns stretch across approximately 1,200 square kilometers (460 square miles).
Highest Point: The highest point in the Chilterns is Harrowden Hill, located near the village of Stokenchurch, at 267 meters (876 feet) above sea level.
Landscape: The Chilterns are characterized by rolling hills, steep escarpments, deep valleys, and a network of woodlands, meadows, and chalk grasslands. The hills are mainly made of chalk, which gives the area its distinctive white, rocky outcrops.
Rivers: The River Thames marks the southern boundary of the Chilterns, and the River Chess and River Colne flow through parts of the area, contributing to its lush valleys and countryside.
Famous Features
The Ridgeway: The Ridgeway is an ancient trackway that runs through the Chilterns and is now a National Trail, popular for walking and cycling.
Ivinghoe Beacon: A prominent hill in the northern Chilterns, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a popular spot for hiking and offers breathtaking vistas over the valleys below.
The Whiteleaf Cross: A chalk hill figure carved into the hillside near Princes Risborough, offering a great vantage point of the surrounding area.
Ashridge Estate: A large expanse of woodland and parkland, owned by the National Trust. The estate has numerous walking trails, including routes through ancient woodlands and along the Grand Union Canal.
Access and Transportation
London Proximity: The Chilterns are easily accessible from London, making them a popular destination for day trips or weekend getaways. The area is about an hour's drive or train ride from the capital.
Train Connections: The Chilterns are well-served by train services, with several stations connecting to London (e.g., from Chesham, Amersham, and Great Missenden).
Public Transport: Bus services connect the main towns and villages, but for more remote areas, it may be helpful to have a car.
List of Top 16 Hills in order of height
Wendover Woods – 267.5 m (879 ft)
Check out this 9.4-mile circular trail near Wendover, Buckinghamshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 52 min to complete.
Coombe Hill – 260 m (853 ft)
Check out this 4.7-mile circular trail near Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 10 min to complete.
Bald Hill – 257.2 m (844 ft)
Enjoy this 9.5-mile circular trail near Watlington, Oxfordshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 31 min to complete.
Clipper Down – 249 m (817 ft)
Get to know this 11.6-mile circular trail near Ivinghoe, Buckinghamshire. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 20 min to complete.
Pulpit Hill – 248 m (814 ft)
Try this 3.0-mile circular trail near Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 27 min to complete.
Or for a longer hike, try this 8.7-mile circular trail, that takes in…Combe Hill, Beacon Hill, Pulpit Hill, And Whiteleaf Barrow Circular. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 8 min to complete.
Whiteleaf Hill – 247.3 m (811 ft)
Explore this 7.0-mile circular trail (Whiteleaf and Chequers Circular) near Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 10 min to complete.
Dunstable Downs – 243 m (797 ft)
Explore this 6.5-mile circular trail near Dunstable, Bedfordshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 53 min to complete.
Beacon Hill – 230 m (755 ft)
Get to know this 7.2-mile circular trail near Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 12 min to complete.
Aldbury Nowers – 222 m (728 ft)
Aldbury, Ivinghoe Beacon, and Ashridge Circular - Get to know this 10.2-mile circular trail near Tring, Hertfordshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 32 min to complete.
Blow's Down – 212 m (696 ft)
Get to know this 5.9-mile circular trail near Luton, Bedfordshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 28 min to complete.
Lodge Hill – 209 m (686 ft)
Discover this 2.1-mile circular trail near Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 53 min to complete.
Widdenton Park Hill – 200.2 m (657 ft)
West Wycombe Ridges and Bottoms Walk - Get to know this 8.2-mile circular trail near High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 44 min to complete.
Warden Hill – 195 m (640 ft)
Discover this 4.5-mile circular trail near Luton, Bedfordshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 57 min to complete.
Telegraph Hill – 184 m (604 ft)
Try the Telegraph Hill & Pegsdon from Hexton walk - Approx. 5.0 miles / 8.1 km, with 4001 feet / 1212 metres of ascent. Time to complete approx. 6 hours 30 minutes.
Bradenham Hill – 182.3 m (598 ft)
Discover this 8.2-mile circular trail near High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 32 min to complete.
Frieth Hill – 179 m (587 ft)
ry this 5.8-mile circular trail near Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 36 min to complete.
NORTH WESSEX DOWNS
Photo Credit: First Feet Walking
The North Wessex Downs is another stunning Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), located in the counties of Berkshire, Hampshire, Oxfordshire, and Wiltshire in southern England. The region is renowned for its rolling chalk hills, quaint villages, ancient woodlands, and historical landmarks, making it a fantastic destination for hiking and outdoor activities.
Key Features of the North Wessex Downs:
Geography: The North Wessex Downs form part of the larger Wessex Downs, which include a variety of landscapes such as chalk downlands, wooded valleys, river valleys, and farmland. The area is characterized by its chalk escarpments, which offer stunning panoramic views.
Landmarks: The area is home to a number of archaeological sites, including hill forts, Neolithic monuments, and Roman roads. The Marlborough Downs and the Wantage Downs are some of the key locations in the region.
Overlapping local names: Berkshire Downs, Hampshire Downs, White Horse Hills, Lambourn Downs, Marlborough Downs, The Vale of Pewsey, Savernake Forest
Access and Transportation to the North Wessex Downs
The North Wessex Downs is easily accessible from London and other major towns in southern England. Whether you’re coming by car, train, or bus, the region offers a variety of transport options to get to its key hiking locations.
By Car
Road Access: The region is well-connected by major roads, including the A34, which runs north to south, linking Oxford and Newbury. The A4 also passes through the region, connecting towns like Marlborough and Reading. The M4 motorway (London to South Wales) passes to the south of the North Wessex Downs, providing easy access to the area from London and Bristol.
Parking: There are many designated car parks along popular walking routes like the Ridgeway and near towns such as Marlborough, Wantage, and Faringdon. Most of these areas have parking facilities suitable for both short visits and longer hikes.
By Train
Rail Stations: Several towns within the North Wessex Downs are served by train stations:
Marlborough: While Marlborough does not have a train station, nearby stations such as Hungerford (on the Great Western Railway line) provide access to the town.
Wantage: The town of Wantage is served by the Didcot Parkway station, about 10 miles (16 km) away, with regular trains from London Paddington.
Reading: A major transport hub, Reading station provides fast connections from London Paddington and London Waterloo to various parts of the North Wessex Downs. From here, it’s easy to reach the southern parts of the Downs.
Newbury: Served by a station on the Great Western Railway, Newbury is close to the Marlborough Downs and well connected to London and Oxford.
Travel Time: From London Paddington to Newbury takes around 40-50 minutes by train, and from Reading to Marlborough or Wantage takes roughly 30 minutes.
By Bus
Local Bus Services: The North Wessex Downs is served by local bus routes connecting smaller villages and towns to larger transport hubs like Newbury and Reading. These buses run regularly between towns like Wantage, Marlborough, and Faringdon.
Tourist Bus Routes: In some parts of the Downs, especially near walking routes like the Ridgeway, there are seasonal tourist bus routes that make it easier to access hiking trails and points of interest.
List of Top 12 Hills in order of height
Walbury Hill – 297 m (974 ft)
Explore this 3.6-mile circular trail near Kintbury, Berkshire. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 33 min to complete.
Milk Hill – 294.3 m (967 ft)
Head out on this 8.7-mile circular trail near Pewsey, Wiltshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 2 min to complete.
Tan Hill – 294 m (967 ft)
Avebury and Calstone Wellington Circular - Enjoy this 15.3-mile circular trail near Marlborough, Wiltshire. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 7 h 1 min to complete.
Combe Hill – 293 m (961 ft)
Check out this 7.3-mile circular trail near Hungerford, Berkshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 14 min to complete.
Inkpen Hill – 289 m (948 ft)
Inkpen Hill, Combe Hill, and Combe Wood Circular - Experience this 8.6-mile circular trail near Kintbury, Berkshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 34 min to complete.
Pilot Hill – 286 m (938 ft)
Wayfarer's Walk: Combe Gibbet to White Hill - Head out on this 13.2-mile point-to-point trail near Hungerford, Wiltshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 20 min to complete.
Sidown Hill – 266 m (873 ft)
Head out on this 5.6-mile circular trail near Newbury, Berkshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 18 min to complete.
Beacon Hill – 261 m (856 ft)
Get to know this 7.4-mile circular trail near Newbury, Berkshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 7 min to complete.
Wheatham Hill – 249 m (817 ft)
Enjoy this 7.4-mile circular trail near Petersfield, Hampshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 33 min to complete.
Watership Down – 237 m (778 ft)
The Watership Down via Ladle Hill Circular - Get to know this 13.2-mile circular trail near Kingsclere, Hampshire. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 14 min to complete.
Ladle Hill – 232 m (761 ft)
Check out this 3.8-mile circular trail near Newbury, Berkshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 36 min to complete.
Holybourne Hill – 225 m (738 ft)
Check out this 4.0-mile circular trail near Alton, Hampshire. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 32 min to complete.
NORTH DOWNS
The North Downs is a range of chalk hills that runs through the southeastern part of England, stretching across Surrey, Kent, and parts of Greater London. This area is highly regarded for its natural beauty, rich history, and accessibility, making it a top destination for hiking and outdoor activities. The North Downs are part of the larger North Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), offering stunning views, peaceful countryside, and picturesque villages. The North Downs Way, a famous long-distance trail, is one of the main hiking routes that follows this ridge.
Key features of the North Downs
Geography and Landscape of the North Downs
Chalk Hills: The North Downs is primarily composed of chalk, creating steep escarpments (sides of hills or ridges) and undulating ridgelines. The hills rise sharply from the Weald (the lower area of countryside) to the north and gradually flatten out as they reach the Thames Basin to the south. These rolling hills offer spectacular panoramic views over the valleys, the Thames River, and even as far as the South Downs on clear days.
Valleys and Woodlands: The chalk ridges are cut by numerous valleys and woodlands. Many of the dry valleys in the region have formed as a result of erosion, and their lower slopes are often home to farmland and woodland. The region also includes areas of beech woodlands and ancient forests, which add to the variety of the landscape.
Rivers and Streams: The River Thames forms the southern boundary of the North Downs. Other rivers like the River Medway and the River Wey flow through the area, feeding into the Thames or passing through the lowland valleys beneath the hills.
Key Features and Landmarks
The North Downs Way: One of the most famous long-distance trails in southern England, the North Downs Way runs for 153 miles (246 km) from Farnham in Surrey to Dover in Kent. This National Trail passes through some of the best landscapes in the North Downs, including woodlands, hills, and historical sites, offering a variety of hiking experiences.
Box Hill: One of the most famous spots in the North Downs, Box Hill is known for its beautiful views over the Surrey Hills and the Weald. The hilltop offers a well-maintained viewing platform, and the surrounding woodlands are perfect for leisurely walks.
Leith Hill: As the highest point in Surrey (294 meters / 965 feet), Leith Hill offers breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside and into the heart of the South Downs. The summit is home to Leith Hill Tower, an iconic structure that provides even higher views.
Wye Downs: Located near the village of Wye in Kent, the Wye Downs are famous for their chalk grassland and spectacular views over the Weald. The area is known for its rich history and abundance of wildflowers and is a prime location for hiking.
The Pilgrim’s Way: The Pilgrim’s Way is a historic route running parallel to the North Downs Way, originally used by pilgrims traveling to Canterbury. Parts of this ancient track are still visible and accessible for hiking.
Chalk Cliffs: Near Dover, the chalk cliffs that line the coast are a famous landmark, providing dramatic views over the English Channel and contributing to the area’s geological significance.
Historical Sites
Canterbury: Located at the eastern end of the North Downs, the city of Canterbury is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and famous for its stunning Cathedral. The city itself has long been a centre of pilgrimage and is a perfect base for exploring the North Downs.
Dover Castle: Perched on the cliffs above the town of Dover, Dover Castle has been a critical military and historical site for over 2,000 years. It provides both historical insights and incredible views of the surrounding coastline.
The Battle of Agincourt Memorial: The North Downs area played a role in several key events in English history, including the famous Battle of Agincourt during the Hundred Years' War, and there are several memorials to this battle in the area.
Access and Transportation to the North Downs
By Car
The North Downs is easily accessible by car, with major roads like the M25 (London’s orbital motorway), the A3, and the M2 connecting the region to London and other nearby towns and cities.
Parking: There are numerous car parks around popular hiking areas like Box Hill, Leith Hill, and Guildford, as well as along the North Downs Way.
By Train
London to Guildford: From London Waterloo, you can take a direct train to Guildford, which is a great base for exploring the North Downs.
London to Farnham: Trains from London Waterloo to Farnham provide access to the western end of the North Downs Way.
London to Canterbury: The high-speed Southeastern train from London St Pancras takes you directly to Canterbury, the eastern end of the North Downs.
Other Stations: Dorking, Redhill, and Maidstone are also key stations near the North Downs.
By Bus
The region is well-served by local bus routes, especially in areas like Guildford, Dorking, and Maidstone, which are within easy reach of hiking trails.
List of Top 12 Hills in order of height
Botley Hill – 270 m
Discover this 4.0-mile circular trail near Oxted, Surrey. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 38 min to complete.
Gravelly Hill – 237 m
Check out this 3.1-mile circular trail near Godstone, Surrey. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 22 min to complete.
Winders Hill – 236 m
Discover this 6.1-mile circular trail near Warlingham, Surrey. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 59 min to complete.
Reigate Hill – 235 m
Reigate Hill, Banstead Common, and Walton On The Hill - Explore this 7.9-mile circular trail near Reigate and Banstead, Surrey. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 19 min to complete.
Wrotham Hill – 235 m
Try this 8 km walk as seen on OS Maps. It takes an average of 1 hr 30 mins to complete
White Hill – 233 m
Enjoy this 3.5-mile circular trail near Dorking, Surrey. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 47 min to complete.
Dunley Hill – 227 m
Leatherhead, Ranmore Common and Ashcombe Wood - Get to know this 19.0-mile circular trail near Leatherhead, Surrey. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 8 h 56 min to complete.
Box Hill – 224 m
There are numerous walks in and around Box Hill (see my blog here). I’ve highlighted AllTrails so you can also access various routes from there.
Detling Hill – 200 m
North Downs Way: Detling to Lenham - Get to know this 10.4-mile point-to-point trail near Maidstone, Kent. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 18 min to complete.
Cheriton Hill – 188 m
Cheriton Hill - Farthing Down - Check out this 9km route on OS Maps. On average this walk takes 2 hours.
West Down – 186 m
Check out this impressive 25km walk on OS Maps. On average this walk takes between 5 hrs to 5 hrs 30 mins to complete.
Tolsford Hill – 183 m
Saxon Shore Way: Sandling to Folkstone - Explore this 8.2-mile point-to-point trail near Sandling, Kent. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 27 min to complete.
SOUTH DOWNS
The South Downs is a stunning range of chalk hills located in the southeast of England, stretching from East Hampshire in the west to the White Cliffs of Dover in the east. It is one of the most popular regions for hiking, offering a mix of dramatic coastal views, rolling hills, charming villages, and historical landmarks. The South Downs National Park is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and covers approximately 1,600 square kilometers (620 square miles). The park is renowned for its scenic beauty, diverse wildlife, and accessible hiking routes, making it a must-visit destination for walkers of all levels.
Geography and Landscape of the South Downs
Chalk Hills: The South Downs are characterized by their chalk escarpments, which form steep ridgelines and rolling hills. The region runs parallel to the south coast of England, with the South Downs Way (a long-distance trail) following the crest of the chalk hills for much of its length. The chalk is a result of the area's geological history, and these hills have been shaped over millions of years by erosion and glaciation.
Coastal Cliffs and Seaside: The White Cliffs of Dover, located at the eastern end of the South Downs, are one of the most iconic coastal features in England. Along the southern edge of the park, the South Downs meet the English Channel, creating dramatic cliffs and beaches, perfect for coastal hikes.
Valleys and River Systems: The South Downs is bisected by several valleys and river valleys, including the River Arun, River Adur, and River Cuckmere. These rivers flow southward, cutting through the downs and providing lush valleys that contrast with the surrounding hilltops.
Woodlands and Heathlands: Although the landscape is dominated by chalk hills, there are also areas of woodland, especially in the northern part of the park, and heathlands in some of the valleys and lower slopes. The South Downs is a biodiversity hotspot, with a wide range of plant species, birds, and animals that thrive in its varied habitats.
Key Features and Landmarks
South Downs Way: One of the most famous hiking trails in England, the South Downs Way runs for 100 miles (160 km) from Winchester in the west to Eastbourne in the east, following the crest of the South Downs ridge. This National Trail offers stunning views, peaceful countryside, and a range of landscapes, including chalk downland, woodlands, farmland, and coastal cliffs. The route passes through some of the best-known landmarks in the region, including Devil's Dyke, Arundel Castle, and Seven Sisters Country Park.
Devil’s Dyke: A dramatic V-shaped valley carved into the South Downs, Devil's Dyke offers expansive views over the surrounding countryside and the English Channel. It's a popular spot for hiking and paragliding, with an ancient earthwork believed to be the work of prehistoric peoples.
The Seven Sisters: Perhaps the most iconic landmark in the South Downs, the Seven Sisters is a series of chalk cliffs located along the coast near Eastbourne. These cliffs are a striking feature of the South Downs and offer stunning views over the Channel, especially from the Cuckmere Haven and Seven Sisters Country Park.
Arundel Castle: Located in the town of Arundel, this medieval castle is one of the most historic landmarks in the region. Situated on the banks of the River Arun, the castle offers both a fascinating historical experience and panoramic views of the surrounding downs and countryside.
The Long Man of Wilmington: A chalk figure carved into the hillside near the village of Wilmington, the Long Man is one of the largest and most mysterious hill figures in England. It offers a unique and ancient perspective of the landscape.
Cuckmere Haven: This beautiful river valley is home to the iconic Seven Sisters cliffs and is an area of natural beauty. It is one of the best areas for walking along the coast and offers great views over the rolling hills and the English Channel.
Access and Transportation
By Car
The South Downs is well-connected by road, with major routes like the M23, A27, and A3 linking it to cities such as London, Brighton, and Chichester. Many hiking spots, such as Devil's Dyke, Beachy Head, and Seven Sisters, have car parks nearby.
By Train
London to Winchester: Southwestern Railway operates services from London Waterloo to Winchester, the starting point of the South Downs Way.
London to Eastbourne: Southern Railway offers frequent services from London Victoria to Eastbourne, which is located at the eastern end of the South Downs Way and offers great access to the South Downs National Park.
Brighton to Seven Sisters: From Brighton, you can take a train to Seaford or Eastbourne, which gives easy access to the Seven Sisters cliffs and the South Downs Way.
By Bus
Local buses serve many towns and villages in the South Downs, including Winchester, Lewes, Arundel, and Eastbourne. Many bus services are integrated with hiking routes, so it's easy to travel between hiking spots.
List of Top 20 Hills in order of height
Black Down – 280 m (919 ft)
Check out this 4.5-mile circular trail near Lewes, East Sussex. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 18 min to complete.
Butser Hill – 270 m (886 ft)
Experience this 3.3-mile circular trail near East Meon, Hampshire. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 34 min to complete.
Littleton Down – 255 m (836 ft)
Littleton Farm to South Harting - Check out this 18.5km point to point route on OS Maps. On average it takes around 4 hrs to 4 hrs 30 mins to complete.
Ditchling Beacon – 248 m (814 ft)
Discover this 8.9-mile circular trail near Hassocks, West Sussex. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 1 min to complete.
Linch Down – 248 m (814 ft)
Chilgrove, Hooksway and Treyford Hill Circular - Get to know this 10.7-mile circular trail near Stoughton, West Sussex. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 53 min to complete.
Firle Beacon – 217 m (712 ft)
Firle Beacon Extended Loop - Check out this 9.4-mile circular trail near Lewes, East Sussex. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 55 min to complete.
Chanctonbury Hill – 240 m (787 ft)
Kithurst Hill, Storrington, Chanctonbury Hill, and Findon Circular - Head out on this 18.4-mile circular trail near Pulborough, West Sussex. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 8 h 22 min to complete.
Beacon Hill – 242 m (794 ft)
Get to know this 6.3-mile circular trail near East Meon, Hampshire. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 37 min to complete.
Glatting Beacon – 245 m (804 ft)
Try this 13.9-mile circular trail near Arundel, West Sussex. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 7 h 22 min to complete.
Wilmington Hill – 214 m (702 ft)
Head out on this 6.3-mile circular trail near Wilmington, East Sussex. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 50 min to complete.
Truleigh Hill – 216 m (709 ft)
Explore this 5.7-mile circular trail near Steyning, West Sussex. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 38 min to complete.
Harting Downs – 229 m (751 ft)
Head out on this 3.1-mile circular trail near Compton, West Sussex. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 35 min to complete.
Devil's Dyke – 217 m (712 ft)
Experience this 6.5-mile circular trail near Hassocks, West Sussex. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 22 min to complete.
Marley Heights – 216 m (709 ft)
Haslemere, Marley Heights, Fernhurst, and Blackdown Circular - Discover this 9.2-mile circular trail near Haslemere, Surrey. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 43 min to complete.
Kithurst Down – 213 m (699 ft)
Head out on this 6.6-mile circular trail near Pulborough, West Sussex. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 53 min to complete.
Farm Hill – 212 m (696 ft)
Glatting Beacon - Try this 13.9-mile circular trail (with over 3,200ft of elevation) near Arundel, West Sussex. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 7 h 22 min to complete.
Hatch Farm Hill – 211 m (692 ft)
Check out this 10km route on OS Maps. On average it takes around 2 hours to complete.
West Hill – 211 m (692 ft)
Check out the 17.5km Pinsent Farley Mount hike on OS Maps, which takes on average 3 hrs 30 mins to complete.
Barlavington Down – 208 m (682 ft)
Enjoy this 7.3-mile circular trail near Slindon, West Sussex. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 52 min to complete.
Telegraph Hill – 207 m (679 ft)
South Downs Way: Winchester to Exton - Try this 12.1-mile point-to-point trail near Winchester, Hampshire. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 49 min to complete.
Conclusion
For Londoners, finding the right location for hill training doesn’t have to be a challenge. With quick access to beautiful and diverse hills in the South of England, you can incorporate hill sprints, interval training, and long climbs into your routine, all while enjoying stunning views and nature.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to improve your fitness or an advanced ultra-challenge athlete preparing for a race, these hills provide the perfect training environment to elevate your performance and mental toughness.