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Norbury Park Surrey

4.6
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

A sprawling Surrey countryside haven with ancient woodlands, wild garlic blooms, and stunning views. Perfect for nature walks and peaceful escapes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wild garlic in bloom

CrowdMedium
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Picture of Norbury Park

Norbury Park Surrey

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wild garlic in bloom

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sprawling Surrey countryside haven with ancient woodlands, wild garlic blooms, and stunning views. Perfect for nature walks and peaceful escapes.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"Stunning all year, especially in the Spring and Summer and when the sun is out."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌸 Catch the Wild Garlic

Visit in spring to witness the stunning wild garlic bloom. It's a fleeting spectacle!

🚗 Parking Availability

There are multiple car parks, but they can fill up, especially during peak times. Arrive early.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wild Garlic Blooms

Wild Garlic Blooms

Woodland areas

Experience the enchanting scent and sight of wild garlic carpeting the woodland floor in spring. A truly magical natural spectacle.

Instagram+1
Druids Grove Yew Trees

Druids Grove Yew Trees

Druids Grove

Discover ancient, majestic yew trees, some centuries old, offering a sense of timeless wonder and natural history.

Reddit
Panoramic Surrey Hills Views

Panoramic Surrey Hills Views

Viewpoints

Enjoy breathtaking vistas across the Mole Valley and beyond from elevated viewpoints, showcasing the beauty of the Surrey Hills.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Wild Garlic

The wild garlic blooms are a major draw, typically peaking in spring. Visit during this time for a fragrant, beautiful experience. Check local reports for exact timing, as it can vary year to year. Instagram+1

Navigating Park Access and Events

While Norbury Park is public land, some areas may be temporarily closed for events or conservation. Be aware that events can increase traffic and crowds in certain sections. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Wild garlic in bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Beautiful foliage
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Last day of half term! We did the beautiful walk at Norbury Park The Hazel trail. Nearest carpark is Young Street Car Park. There is a little natural play area. #norburypark #naturewalk #naturewalkuk
@nature.diary1
3 likes • 914 views

🌸 Catch the Wild Garlic

Visit in spring to witness the stunning wild garlic bloom. It's a fleeting spectacle! Instagram+1

🚗 Parking Availability

There are multiple car parks, but they can fill up, especially during peak times. Arrive early. Reddit

Norbury Park Walks #dog #hiking #walk #countryside #nature #naturewalk #hikingadventures #dogs #england #autumn #surrey #surreyhills #londonview #litter #silentvlog @nationaltrust #norburypark
@talespotting
46 likes • 724 views
Norbury Park, Surrey The wild garlic is now in full bloom. This is the time to visit to catch it at its best 💚 🤍 Have a lovely weekend all x ➡️ Follow @surrey_snaps for more Surrey content 💚 Like, comment, save or share #surrey #surreyuk #uk #england #surreywalks #surreylife #surreyliving #surreyblogger #ukblogger #surreyhills #surreymums #surreyphotographer #surreyphotography #visitsurrey...
surrey_snaps
225 likes • 2.7K views

🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Paths can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain. Good walking shoes are a must. Reddit

☕ Coffee Van Spot

A coffee van is often found near the old timberworks for a refreshing break. Reddit+1

Wild garlic is in full bloom in Surrey. This spot is in Norbury Park, but it won't last long, so make sure to check it out soon. . . . #surreylife #surrey #igerssurrey #visitbritain
david248c
0 likes • 208 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌸 Catch the Wild Garlic

Visit in spring to witness the stunning wild garlic bloom. It's a fleeting spectacle! Instagram+1

🚗 Parking Availability

There are multiple car parks, but they can fill up, especially during peak times. Arrive early. Reddit

🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Paths can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain. Good walking shoes are a must. Reddit

☕ Coffee Van Spot

A coffee van is often found near the old timberworks for a refreshing break. Reddit+1

🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails

A great spot for dog walkers, with plenty of space for them to roam. Keep them on a lead near wildlife. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Norbury Park is praised for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the vibrant wild garlic blooms in spring and the ancient yew trees. Visitors appreciate the free entry, ample walking trails, and the peaceful atmosphere, making it a great spot for nature lovers and dog walkers. However, some express concerns about increasing commercialization and event traffic impacting the park's tranquility.

"Large public park, formerly the grounds of a large manor house, purchased by Surrey County Council in the early 1930s to preserve green space in a national first.
The park is a mix of farmland, woodland and open chalk grassland that's a haven for wildflowers in late spring and early summer. Of particular note are the ancient yew trees in the Druid's Grove area. Part of the woodland has been made into a sensory trail.
Unfortunately some of the woodland around the Centenary Viewpoint area was closed off at the time of my visit, meaning not all of the park was accessible. That said, there were still some fine views of Box Hill, the Greensand Ridge and the London skyline at various points, many accompanied by a bench or picnic tables.
Free parking at Crabtree Lane, though no other facilities until you've reached the coffee shop site and picnic area near the sawmill. Well behaved dogs welcome.
Longer walks are possible beyond the park alongside the River Mole and to Box Hill. Box Hill and Westhumble station is less than 20 minutes walk away."

Andrew Thomas

"Visited for the first time yesterday morning. Google Maps took me straight to the car park easily enough. The main reason I went was to see the ancient yew trees in Druids Grove within the woodland, however, much to my disappointment this area had been totally closed off. Luckily I was still able to find a lot of fantastic yew trees so my trip wasn't in vain. The paths are quite wide and easy to follow."

Feizal Mowlabocus

"There are 3 carparks,2 small ones
Lovely peaceful place to walk,and 2 places you can grab a coffee from"

Lisa D

What People Like

Beautiful wild garlic
Ancient yew trees
Peaceful walks

What People Dislike

Event commercialization
Traffic issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Norbury Park is accessible by car, with several free car parks available. Google Maps can guide you to the main parking areas. Reddit Public transport options are limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach the park. Reddit

Yes, Norbury Park has multiple car parks, including two smaller ones and a main one that Google Maps directs to. Parking is free for visitors. Reddit

Cycling is a popular way to explore Norbury Park, with many paths suitable for bikes. Be mindful of other park users, especially horses and children. Reddit

Public transport access is not as straightforward as driving. While possible, it often involves longer walks from the nearest bus stops. Reddit

Norbury Park is located near Leatherhead and Dorking in Surrey, offering easy access from these towns. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Norbury Park is free to enter, making it an accessible destination for everyone. Reddit

Norbury Park is generally open from dawn till dusk, offering ample time for exploration. Specific areas might have temporary closures for events. Reddit

While some areas of the park are used for events, there are concerns about the commercialization and impact on the park's natural state. Reddit It's best to check local council information for any permitted events. Reddit

Generally, there is a right to roam on foot. However, some areas may be temporarily closed for events or conservation efforts. Reddit

Information about events can be scarce, and some users have expressed frustration with commercial events impacting the park's tranquility. Reddit It's advisable to check local Surrey council websites or community forums for updates. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Norbury Park offers a variety of trails, from wide, easy paths to narrower woodland tracks. The paths are generally well-maintained and easy to follow. Reddit

Yes, Norbury Park is a wildlife haven. You might spot deer, various bird species, and other woodland creatures. Reddit

Facilities are limited. There's a coffee van near the old timberworks, but permanent toilets and extensive cafe seating are lacking, which some visitors note as a drawback. Reddit+1

Absolutely! With its diverse landscapes, ancient trees, and seasonal blooms like wild garlic, Norbury Park offers fantastic photographic opportunities. Drone footage has also captured its beauty. Instagram+1

Druids Grove is a section of Norbury Park known for its ancient and impressive yew trees, some of which are centuries old. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There's a coffee van located near the old timberworks that serves refreshments. Reddit+1 However, dedicated cafes with ample seating are not a feature of the park. Reddit

Yes, Norbury Park is an ideal location for picnics. There are many scenic spots to enjoy your own food amidst nature. Reddit

The coffee van typically offers hot drinks and light snacks, perfect for a break during your walk. Reddit

Nearby towns like Leatherhead and Dorking offer a wider range of dining options, from pubs to restaurants. Reddit

Given the limited catering facilities, it's highly recommended to bring your own food and drinks, especially if you plan a longer visit or a picnic. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The woodland areas, especially during wild garlic season, Druids Grove with its ancient yew trees, and the viewpoints offering panoramic views are prime photography locations. InstagramReddit+1

Drone footage has been captured in Norbury Park, showcasing its scenic beauty. Instagram However, always check local regulations and guidelines regarding drone usage in national parks or protected areas. Instagram

A versatile setup is recommended. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes and woodland shots, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Instagram

Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers beautiful light for landscape and woodland photography. Spring is ideal for the wild garlic, and autumn for foliage. Instagram+1

The ancient yew trees, the vibrant green of the wild garlic in spring, the rolling hills, and the changing colours of the woodland throughout the seasons are highly photogenic. Instagram+2

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Norbury Park is a fantastic destination for families looking for outdoor adventures. The wide, easy-to-follow paths make it suitable for strollers and young walkers. Reddit Kids will love exploring the woodlands, spotting wildlife like deer, and enjoying picnics in scenic spots. Reddit While there aren't dedicated playgrounds, the natural environment itself provides ample opportunities for imaginative play and discovery. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Walkers & Nature Enthusiasts

For those seeking a peaceful escape, Norbury Park offers a serene environment. The extensive network of trails allows for long, contemplative walks through diverse habitats, from open chalk grasslands to dense woodlands. Reddit The chance to witness the wild garlic bloom in spring or the ancient yew trees provides unique natural attractions. Reddit Solo visitors can enjoy the tranquility and the opportunity to connect with nature, though it's always wise to inform someone of your plans and stick to well-trodden paths. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enchantment of Wild Garlic

Norbury Park is particularly famous for its spectacular display of wild garlic during the spring months. This fragrant plant carpets the woodland floor, creating a breathtakingly beautiful and aromatic environment. Visitors flock to witness this natural phenomenon, with many social media posts highlighting its peak bloom. Instagram+1 The best time to catch this spectacle is typically from late March to May, depending on the weather. The sheer volume of the garlic transforms the woods into a vibrant green carpet, offering a unique sensory experience. Instagram

While the wild garlic is a major draw, it's important to be mindful of the park's ecosystem. Tread carefully on designated paths to avoid disturbing the plants and the surrounding flora and fauna. The scent of the wild garlic is strongest when the leaves are crushed, so walking through it naturally releases its pungent aroma. Instagram Many visitors find this immersive experience to be a highlight of their visit, making it a must-see for nature lovers and photographers alike. Instagram

Ancient Yew Trees and Woodland Heritage

Within Norbury Park lies Druids Grove, a significant area home to ancient yew trees. These magnificent specimens are centuries old, standing as silent witnesses to the park's long history. Walking among these venerable trees evokes a sense of timelessness and connection to the past. Reddit The sheer scale and gnarled appearance of the yew trees make them a compelling sight, offering a stark contrast to the more ephemeral beauty of spring blooms. Reddit

These ancient trees are part of the park's Site of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI) designation, underscoring their ecological importance. Reddit While some parts of Druids Grove may occasionally be closed for conservation or due to events, the presence of these ancient yews is a defining characteristic of Norbury Park. Reddit Their enduring presence contributes to the park's reputation as a place of natural and historical significance, offering a different kind of wonder compared to the seasonal displays. Reddit

Community Concerns and Park Management

Recent discussions on platforms like Reddit highlight concerns among some visitors regarding the commercialization of Norbury Park. Issues raised include the increased frequency and volume of traffic associated with events held in areas like Phoenice Fields, which can conflict with other park users such as cyclists, children, and dog walkers. Reddit There's a sentiment that these events, along with the permanent coffee hut, detract from the park's original character as a 'quiet retreat'. Reddit

Some park users feel that the park's management is leaning towards commercial interests, potentially at the expense of its natural tranquility and accessibility for all. Reddit The use of loopholes for events and the perceived encroachment on public land for commercial gain have been points of contention. Reddit While the park remains free to enter and offers beautiful natural landscapes, these community discussions suggest a desire to preserve its peaceful atmosphere and natural heritage. Reddit

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