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Hankley Common Atlantic Wall

4.7
·35 reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore a fascinating WWII Atlantic Wall remnant and cratered landscape on this historic military training ground.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Hankley Common Atlantic Wall

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a fascinating WWII Atlantic Wall remnant and cratered landscape on this historic military training ground.

4.7
(35 reviews)

"A fascinating piece of history from 1943, tucked away in the middle of this beautiful area."

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TIP

Wear Sturdy Footwear

The terrain is uneven and can be muddy. Good walking boots are essential for exploring the heathland. :athletic_shoe:

Bring a Map & Compass

GPS can be unreliable here. A physical map and compass are your best bet for navigation. :compass:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Atlantic Wall

The Atlantic Wall

Central area of Hankley Common

A fascinating remnant of WWII defenses, eerily overgrown and reclaimed by nature.

Dragon's Teeth

Dragon's Teeth

Scattered across the common

Concrete anti-tank obstacles, testament to the area's military past, adding to the eerie atmosphere.

Cratered Landscape

Cratered Landscape

Various locations on the common

Evidence of past military exercises, creating a unique, rugged terrain that's intriguing to explore.

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Planning Your Visit

Respect the History and Environment

This is a historic military training ground. Stay on marked paths to protect the fragile heathland and avoid restricted areas. Remember, it's a place of significant history, so observe with respect.

Navigating the Heath

While beautiful, the heath can be disorienting. Local signage is minimal, and GPS can be unreliable. Familiarize yourself with the area or use a reliable map and compass for a smoother exploration.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden light, crisp air
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Wear Sturdy Footwear

The terrain is uneven and can be muddy. Good walking boots are essential for exploring the heathland. :athletic_shoe:

Bring a Map & Compass

GPS can be unreliable here. A physical map and compass are your best bet for navigation. :compass:

Respect the Military Ground

Stay on marked paths and avoid restricted areas. This is an active training ground. :warning:

Embrace the Eerie Vibe

The overgrown defenses create a unique, haunting atmosphere. Perfect for history buffs. :ghost:

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Sturdy Footwear

The terrain is uneven and can be muddy. Good walking boots are essential for exploring the heathland. :athletic_shoe:

Bring a Map & Compass

GPS can be unreliable here. A physical map and compass are your best bet for navigation. :compass:

Respect the Military Ground

Stay on marked paths and avoid restricted areas. This is an active training ground. :warning:

Embrace the Eerie Vibe

The overgrown defenses create a unique, haunting atmosphere. Perfect for history buffs. :ghost:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(35 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Hankley Common a fascinating historical site set within a beautiful, albeit rugged, natural landscape. The remnants of the Atlantic Wall and military training are a major draw, offering a unique and eerie exploration experience. However, navigation can be challenging due to unreliable GPS and sparse signage, and the terrain requires sturdy footwear.

"Very cool place. A fascinating piece of history from 1943, tucked away in the middle of this beautiful area. The whole heath is very interesting to walk around. There are many different trails and many beautiful views. This is a military training ground, so look with your eyes and not with your hands and stay in designated areas."

Hels M

"Highly recommend visiting this historic landmark to WW2 and many training exercises since. There are depth of positions with a second smaller wall higher up towards the ridge line and various anti - armour installations that have all been shot up and blown up over the years. The ground is cratered but yet the forest continues to reclaim it. Great for exploring the area for young and old."

Benjamin Hooper

"A lovely walk to the wall.
Film crew were packing away, which didn't affect the walk.
Didn't venture far around the woodlands.

The wall, dragons teeth and the location felt really really eerie."

Helen Cecil

What People Like

Fascinating history
Beautiful heathland
Eerie atmosphere

What People Dislike

Difficult navigation
Overgrown areas

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hankley Common is accessible by car, with parking areas available. However, GPS can be unreliable for pinpointing the exact Atlantic Wall location. It's recommended to use a detailed map and compass or follow local bridleway signs, though these can be sparse. Some visitors suggest it's easier to find by knowing the area from childhood visits rather than relying solely on navigation apps. Reddit

Public transport options to Hankley Common are limited. It's primarily a destination best reached by car. Check local bus routes, but be prepared for a significant walk from any nearest stop. Reddit

There are several parking areas around Hankley Common, often used by walkers and golfers. Look for designated parking spots on maps of the area. Be aware that parking can fill up, especially on weekends. Reddit

Hankley Common has bridleways suitable for cycling. However, the terrain can be challenging in places, and it's important to be mindful of other users and the environment. Stick to designated paths. Reddit

The nearest towns to Hankley Common include Farnham and Godalming in Surrey. These towns offer amenities and can serve as starting points for your visit. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Hankley Common is a large area of heathland and woodland that is generally open to the public. There are no admission fees to enter the common itself. Reddit

Hankley Common is open access land, meaning it is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, as it's a military training ground, there may be temporary restrictions or access limitations on certain days. It's advisable to check local notices if possible. Reddit

While the common is generally accessible, the specific areas of the Atlantic Wall and other military installations are part of a landscape that has been subject to military use. Always stay on designated paths and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

Parking at Hankley Common is typically free, but this can vary depending on the specific car park. Always check for any signage indicating parking charges. Reddit

Yes, dogs are generally welcome at Hankley Common. However, they must be kept under close control, especially due to the presence of wildlife and the potential for military activity. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The best way to explore Hankley Common is on foot, wearing sturdy footwear. Follow the marked trails and bridleways. Be prepared for uneven terrain and potentially muddy conditions. Reddit

You can see remnants of the Atlantic Wall, including concrete defenses, dragon's teeth (anti-tank obstacles), and various military emplacements. The landscape itself is marked by craters from past exercises. Reddit

Hankley Common is generally safe for exploration, but it's crucial to stay on designated paths and be aware that it is an active military training ground. Avoid restricted areas and be mindful of the terrain. Reddit

Hankley Common is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and supports a variety of wildlife, including birds, insects, and heathland flora. Keep an eye out for local fauna. Reddit

Due to the natural and uneven terrain, Hankley Common is not generally considered wheelchair accessible. Stick to the main paths if mobility is a concern, but be aware of the challenging ground. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Atlantic Wall itself, with its overgrown concrete structures, offers dramatic photographic opportunities. The cratered landscape and the 'dragon's teeth' also make for striking images, especially with the heathland as a backdrop. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, atmospheric shots, highlighting the textures of the landscape and the historical remnants. The golden hour can add a unique mood to the eerie setting. Reddit

Drone usage is often restricted in military training areas and nature reserves. It's essential to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone over Hankley Common. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive heathland and the scale of the defenses. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Consider weather-sealed gear due to potential for damp conditions. Reddit

Yes, the historical military installations are a key feature and are permitted to be photographed. However, always be mindful of any active military personnel or equipment and maintain a respectful distance. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hankley Common offers an adventurous outing for families interested in history and nature. The cratered landscape and the imposing concrete structures of the Atlantic Wall can spark a child's imagination, turning a walk into a historical exploration. It’s a great place for kids to burn off energy while learning about WWII. Reddit

However, parents should be aware that the terrain is uneven and can be muddy, so sturdy footwear is essential for everyone. Navigation can be tricky, so keeping a close eye on children and staying on marked paths is crucial. While there are no specific play areas, the sheer scale of the historical remnants and the open heathland provide ample space for exploration and discovery. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities are scarce. Reddit

🚶 History Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by military history, Hankley Common is a must-visit. The Atlantic Wall remnants offer a tangible connection to WWII defenses, allowing you to walk among the very structures that were once part of a critical defensive line. The dragon's teeth and various emplacements provide further insight into the military strategies of the era. Reddit

The overgrown and reclaimed nature of these fortifications adds a unique, almost haunting, atmosphere to the site. It’s a place where history is preserved not in pristine condition, but in a state of natural decay, offering a poignant perspective. Be prepared for a bit of a trek to find the best-preserved sections, and consider bringing a field guide or historical map to enhance your understanding of the site's significance. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Military History

Hankley Common is a significant site for military history, particularly its role during World War II and subsequent training exercises. The Atlantic Wall here is a fascinating, albeit smaller, counterpart to the extensive defenses built by the Germans in occupied Europe. It was constructed by Allied forces as a defensive position, intended to repel potential invasions. The presence of dragon's teeth (anti-tank obstacles) and various emplacements further underscores its strategic importance during that era. Reddit

The landscape itself bears the scars of decades of military use. Visitors will notice numerous craters scattered across the heath, evidence of artillery practice and demolitions. This rugged, cratered terrain, combined with the overgrown concrete structures, creates a uniquely atmospheric and somewhat eerie environment. It’s a stark reminder of the area’s past, where nature is slowly reclaiming these man-made fortifications. Reddit

Exploring Hankley Common offers a tangible connection to history. It’s a place where the past is not just read about but can be seen and felt. The combination of natural beauty and historical remnants makes it a compelling destination for those interested in military heritage and unique landscapes. Remember to tread carefully and respect the environment as you discover these historical echoes. Reddit

Navigating the Heathland

Hankley Common is a vast expanse of heathland, characterized by its undulating terrain, sandy soil, and sparse vegetation. While beautiful, this natural environment can present navigational challenges. GPS signals can be unreliable due to the terrain and the sheer openness of the area, leading some visitors to report being directed in circles or told they are off-route even when standing on a path. Reddit

Local signage is often minimal, with many paths marked simply as 'Bridleways.' This means that for visitors unfamiliar with the area, finding specific points of interest like the Atlantic Wall can be difficult. Many long-time visitors and locals rely on their ingrained knowledge of the common, having explored it since childhood. For newcomers, it is highly recommended to carry a physical map and a compass and to have a basic understanding of how to use them. Reddit

When exploring, always wear sturdy, waterproof walking boots as the ground can be uneven, boggy, and sandy. Stick to the designated paths and bridleways to avoid getting lost and to protect the fragile heathland ecosystem. The experience of navigating Hankley Common is part of its rugged charm, but preparedness is key to enjoying your visit safely and without frustration. Reddit

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