BOX HILL
ONE OF THE joys of this country is that we are never very far from woodland, open space and fresh air – and Box Hill in Surrey is a supreme example of this. One minute you are toddling through suburbia on the outskirts of London, and the next you can be enjoying the wide open spaces and physical freedom of this fantastic area of 1,200 acres.
THE PICNIC
Prosciutto, Porcini and Olive Schiacciata
Pasta and Broccoli Salad with Watercress Pesto
Spanish Almond Torte with Lemon Syrup
Given to the nation in 1914 by philanthropist Leopold Salomons of nearby Norbury Park, it has been managed and looked after by the National Trust as well as being extended by trusts and donations. A refreshing and regenerating playground for those who live in the nearby towns and cities, it is a constantly changing backdrop for those seeking nature and fresh air. See it in spring when the buds and blossoms decorate the trees, in the height of summer with its abundance of birds and other wildlife as well as luxuriant wildflowers, including a dozen or so species of wild orchids. The beech, oak and elm which cover Box Hill’s slopes and walks provide a blaze of red and gold in autumn, while winter has its own special beauty – stark and still and, when covered in frost, it is a completely magical experience. Best of all there are walks and trails for every age and level of fitness – with short strolls, long walks, hiking trails, nature trails and ones specially designed for families.
The Picnic Site
The new shaded picnic area, which also has seats, near the summit of the hill – great views.
The beauty of Box Hill has reached a much wider audience – both nationally and internationally – since it became the setting for a pivotal scene in Jane Austen’s Emma, when the interfering but well-meaning heroine set out to discover ‘what everybody found so much worth seeing’. Our cultural adviser, Judith, tries to persuade us to watch the DVD of Emma before we go, just to put it in context for us, but secretly I think she is so fond of the book and the film she just wants to see it again herself!
CHEAT’S PICNIC
• There are lots of farmers’ markets in the immediate vicinity (Wallington, Epsom, Dorking and Guildford), offering everything from honey to home-made cakes, as well as cheeses and organic drinks. Also call in at:
• Cranleigh Organic Farm Shop – for good cheese, salads and vegetables.
• Applegarth Farm Shop, Grayshott – for vegetables, bread and eggs.
• Headley Stores, near Epsom – deli for meats, pâtés, cheeses and breads.
ALSO IN THE AREA
• Leith Hill, near Dorking – the highest point in south-east England, with panoramic views from its gothic tower and great walks on the heath.
• Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham – a grand Edwardian house with opulent interiors.
• Claremont Landscape Garden, Esher – wonderfully English landscaped garden with lake (and 52 species of waterfowl), ha-ha, grotto and amphitheatre.
• Clandon Park, near Guildford – a Palladian mansion with a magnificent white marble hall.
• Hatchlands Park, near Guildford – 18th-century house with Robert Adam interiors, Gertrude Jekyll garden and glorious bluebell wood.