Leith Hill
Ancient woodland, open heath, one of Surrey's finest viewpoints and an 18th-century Gothic tower rising above a landscape shaped by walkers, artists, scientists and generations of local families.
One of southern England's great viewpoints
Leith Hill rises above the wooded landscape south-west of Dorking, close to the village of Coldharbour.
The natural summit reaches approximately 294 metres, making it the highest natural point in Surrey.
Standing on the summit is the distinctive Leith Hill Tower. The top of the tower reaches about 313 metres above sea level, giving extensive views across the Surrey Hills and beyond.
Yet the summit is only part of the story. The wider estate contains ancient woodland, heathland, historic gardens, old tracks and a network of paths connecting Leith Hill with Coldharbour, Wotton, Holmwood and surrounding villages.
From London to the English Channel
National Trust describes the top of Leith Hill Tower as the highest point in South-East England.
On a clear day the view stretches north towards London and south towards the English Channel.
Reaching the top requires climbing 78 spiral steps inside the tower.
Access to the interior is seasonal, so visitors should check current National Trust opening information before travelling specifically to climb the tower.
A Gothic landmark built for the view
Richard Hull's tower
Leith Hill Tower was built in 1765 by Richard Hull of Leith Hill Place.
It was created as a prospect tower — a place from which visitors could enjoy the surrounding countryside.
Historic England records later alterations, including the addition of battlements and a stair turret during the 19th century.
Inside the tower
A narrow spiral staircase climbs towards the viewing platform.
An exhibition space inside tells the history of the tower and the people who shaped Leith Hill.
Richard Hull was so attached to the tower that he was buried beneath it after his death in 1772.
What can you see from Leith Hill?
The landscape opens dramatically from the summit area. Visibility naturally depends on weather and atmospheric conditions, but the hill is known for exceptionally long-distance views.
North
On particularly clear days it is possible to identify landmarks on the London skyline.
South
The view extends across the Weald towards the South Downs and, in favourable conditions, the English Channel.
Surrey Hills
Closer views reveal a landscape of woodland, farmland, ridges and valleys across the Surrey Hills.
A landscape connected with music and science
Ralph Vaughan Williams
Composer Ralph Vaughan Williams spent part of his childhood at nearby Leith Hill Place.
The Surrey landscape became an important part of his early life and musical imagination.
Charles Darwin
Charles Darwin frequently visited relatives at Leith Hill Place and carried out observations connected with his research into earthworms.
The famous “worm stone” associated with those experiments survives in the grounds.
The Wedgwoods
Leith Hill Place became closely associated with the Wedgwood family during the 19th century.
Their influence can still be seen in the landscape, including the historic Rhododendron Wood.
A house connected with generations of creativity
Below the summit lies Leith Hill Place, a Grade II* listed country house with wide views across Surrey.
The property has connections with the Wedgwood family, Charles Darwin and Ralph Vaughan Williams.
Vaughan Williams inherited the property in 1944 and donated the house and estate to the National Trust. The tower had already been in National Trust care since 1923.
Opening arrangements for the house are seasonal, so check National Trust information before planning a visit inside.
More than a summit
Ancient woodland & heath
Trails cross broadleaf woodland, heathland, farmland and areas of historic parkland.
In spring the woods can produce bluebells and primroses, while autumn transforms the slopes with strong woodland colour.
Rhododendron Wood
Caroline Wedgwood developed the historic Rhododendron Wood.
National Trust records plants originating from regions including the Himalayas, China and Thailand, creating one of the estate's most distinctive areas.
Walking around Leith Hill
Leith Hill is crossed by an extensive network of paths and trails suitable for both short walks and longer linear hikes.
National Trust maintains several waymarked routes, while the wider rights-of-way network connects the hill with Coldharbour, Holmwood, Wotton, Friday Street, Abinger and Gomshall.
The combination of steep woodland, open viewpoints, sandy tracks and historic villages makes this one of the strongest walking areas within easy reach of London.
Prepare for genuine countryside
Paths around Leith Hill can be steep, uneven and muddy after prolonged rain.
Walking boots or hiking shoes with good grip are recommended. Carry sufficient water, waterproof clothing and, during shorter autumn and winter days, a small torch or headtorch.
Continue through the Surrey Hills
Historical, landscape and walking information in this guide was checked against National Trust, Historic England and Surrey Hills sources.