Stepping Stones (River Mole) - Image 1
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Stepping Stones River Mole

4.6
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

Historic stepping stones crossing the River Mole in Dorking, offering scenic woodland walks and panoramic views from Box Hill.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Stepping Stones (River Mole) - Image 1

Stepping Stones River Mole

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic stepping stones crossing the River Mole in Dorking, offering scenic woodland walks and panoramic views from Box Hill.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"A charming, family-friendly spot with historic stones and beautiful walks."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Water Shoes

Pebbly riverbed! Water shoes are recommended if you plan to wade in the River Mole .

🚗 Early Bird Parking

Stepping Stones car park gets busy. Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Stepping Stones

The Iconic Stepping Stones

River Mole

Cross the River Mole on these historic stones, a charming and slightly adventurous way to experience the natural beauty.

Woodland and Riverside Trails

Woodland and Riverside Trails

Box Hill

Explore scenic hiking paths offering a mix of woodland, riverside views, and open countryside. Perfect for nature lovers.

Panoramic Views from Box Hill

Panoramic Views from Box Hill

Box Hill Summit

Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Surrey Hills from the top of Box Hill, a rewarding sight after your walk.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for the Stepping Stones

Visit on weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds. Weekends can get busy, especially with families and dog walkers. Consider the weather; after heavy rain, the river can flow quickly over the stones, making crossing tricky.Reddit

Parking and Access Tips

The Stepping Stones car park is convenient, but can fill up quickly on weekends. Alternatively, park at Box Hill summit for National Trust members (paid parking otherwise) and enjoy a scenic walk down. Be prepared for a steep climb back up if you choose the summit route.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Ideal for wading and picnics
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn mornings
Why
Atmospheric misty views
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Route for You Episode 9: The Leatherhead to Westhumble Trail 🚂 London Waterloo ➡️ Leatherhead (42 minutes) 🚂🔙 Box Hill and Westhumble ➡️ London Waterloo (50 minutes) 🥾 9.5km (2 hours) ⛰️202m elevation 🌳 All Trails: Leatherhead, Norbury Park, Westhumble, Connect Wood Loop (but we just walked to the stepping stones after Box hill and Westhumble station and then went back to the station) We real...
@oliverisherwood98
92 likes • 2.4K views

👟 Wear Water Shoes

Pebbly riverbed! Water shoes are recommended if you plan to wade in the River Mole.Reddit

🚗 Early Bird Parking

Stepping Stones car park gets busy. Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot.Reddit

The Stepping Stones Walk in Dorking is a hidden gem for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone looking to escape the bustle of everyday life. This walk offers stunning views, and a touch of adventure. The stepping stones themselves are a charming feature, crossing the River Mole and providing a unique, slightly adventurous way to begin your journey. One of the most rewarding aspects is the climb up Box...
ilonajalba
0 likes • 559 views
Trying something new .. Stepping stones across the river Mole #boxhillpodenco
rubi_the_podenco
19 likes • 120 views

⬆️ Steep Climb Warning

The walk up from the stepping stones to Box Hill summit is steep. Take it slow!

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Great spot for dogs! Plenty of space to explore and paddle safely in the River Mole.

Come and step into history and explore the iconic Stepping Stones in Dorking! 🥾 Providing a crossing over the River Mole, these stones, first recorded in 1841, have a rich legacy steeped in both natural beauty and historical significance. Removed during WWII as a wartime precaution, they were carefully reinstated in 1946 by serving Prime Minister Clement Atlee. Today, they offer a delightful hig...
hellodorking
185 likes • 2.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Water Shoes

Pebbly riverbed! Water shoes are recommended if you plan to wade in the River Mole.Reddit

🚗 Early Bird Parking

Stepping Stones car park gets busy. Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot.Reddit

⬆️ Steep Climb Warning

The walk up from the stepping stones to Box Hill summit is steep. Take it slow!

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

Great spot for dogs! Plenty of space to explore and paddle safely in the River Mole.

📸 Capture the Moment

The stepping stones offer unique photo opportunities, especially with leading lines.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Stepping Stones River Mole as a beautiful, family-friendly spot with charming historic stones and scenic walking trails. The natural beauty and opportunity to paddle in the river are highlights, though the steep climb back up from the river can be challenging for some.

"The stones were immersed in water due to high waters so we took the ramblers bridge about 5 minutes walk down and then the steep uphill steps to Boxhill. Lovely spot for walks and hike and some great nature scenes. Found free parking by Rykas Cafe. Additional free parking further up on zig zag road"

Akh Owase (Man-of-Sorts)

"It’s a lovely, family-friendly spot with clean, flowing water. The riverbed is pebbly, so it’s a good idea to wear shoes if you plan to wade in. There are some beautiful short and long hiking trails leads to the stepping stones but if you’re just after the water and stepping-stones experience, it’s easier to park at the Stepping Stones car park. The hill from the main trail is quite steep, and the climb back up can be a bit tough for little ones."

Pragya S

"Lovely Walk at Stepping Stones, Surrey

The Stepping Stones walk in Surrey is a beautiful spot for a peaceful stroll, especially if you have a dog. The trail offers a mix of riverside paths, woodland, and open views, making it varied and interesting without being too challenging. The iconic stepping stones across the River Mole are a highlight — they give the walk a unique charm and make for great photos.

It’s well-maintained, and there are plenty of places for dogs to explore and paddle safely in the water. Parking is nearby, though it can get busy on weekends, so an early start is recommended.

Overall, it’s an ideal walk for both dog owners and anyone looking for fresh air, scenic views, and a bit of tranquility in the Surrey countryside."

SCC

What People Like

Charming stepping stones
Beautiful nature walks
Family-friendly paddling

What People Dislike

Steep climb back up

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach the Stepping Stones by car, parking at the dedicated Stepping Stones car park or the National Trust car park at Box Hill summit. Alternatively, take a train to Box Hill & Westhumble station, followed by a walk. Be aware that the walk from the station to the stones can involve steep sections.Reddit

Yes, there's a dedicated Stepping Stones car park. It's a convenient option but can get crowded on weekends. Parking at Box Hill summit is also available, often with more space but a longer walk down to the stones.Reddit

Yes, you can take a train to Box Hill & Westhumble station. From there, it's a walk to the stepping stones. Some users note the walk can be challenging, especially if you're not used to inclines.Reddit

The walk down from Box Hill summit is scenic but can be steep and tiring, especially the climb back up. It offers beautiful views along the way.Reddit

The walk can be challenging due to steep inclines, particularly the climb back up from the river. It's advisable to assess your fitness level or opt for a less strenuous route if needed.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Stepping Stones and the surrounding walking areas is generally free. However, parking at the National Trust car park at Box Hill summit requires payment unless you are a member.Reddit

The Stepping Stones are a natural feature and are accessible at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.

There is no entrance fee for the Stepping Stones themselves. Parking fees may apply at designated car parks.Reddit

While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and lack of lighting. Some users have mentioned nighttime hikes, but caution is advised.Instagram

Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but it's important to respect the natural environment and follow any signage. During periods of heavy rain, crossing the stones might be unsafe.Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

It's a beautiful, family-friendly walk with a mix of riverside paths, woodland, and open views. The highlight is crossing the River Mole via the iconic stepping stones.Instagram

Generally yes, but after heavy rain, the river can flow quickly. It's advisable to check conditions. Children might need to jump between stones, and it's not deep if you fall in.Reddit

Comfortable walking shoes are essential. If you plan to wade, water shoes are highly recommended due to the pebbly riverbed.Reddit

While some visitors dip their feet in the cool waters,Instagram swimming is not officially advised. The river depth can vary, and currents can be strong.

Visitor facilities like cafes and toilets are available at the top of Box Hill summit, but not directly at the stepping stones themselves.

📸 📸 Photography

The stepping stones themselves create fantastic leading lines. The surrounding woodland and riverside offer picturesque backdrops, especially during misty mornings.Instagram

Early mornings can offer atmospheric misty conditions,Instagram while afternoons provide good light for general scenic shots. Golden hour can also be beautiful.

Drone usage may be restricted in National Trust areas. It's best to check the specific regulations for Box Hill before flying a drone.

Experiment with different angles to capture the scale of the stones and the flow of the river. Consider including people to add a sense of adventure.Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the landscape. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Stepping Stones River Mole is a fantastic family-friendly destination. The shallow water around the stones is perfect for little ones to paddle in, and the walk offers a sense of adventure.Instagram However, be aware that the climb back up from the river to Box Hill summit is quite steep and can be tiring for young children.Reddit Consider sticking to shorter, flatter routes if you have very young kids or strollers. The pebbly riverbed means water shoes are a good idea for comfort and safety.

🐶 Dog Owners

This is a dog's paradise! The Stepping Stones walk is well-loved by dog owners, offering plenty of space for your furry friends to explore and safely paddle in the River Mole.Instagram The varied terrain, from woodland paths to riverside trails, keeps dogs engaged. Remember to keep them under control in areas with other visitors and to clean up after them. The car park can get busy, so an early start is recommended if you're bringing your canine companion.

🚶 Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For hikers, the Stepping Stones are a gateway to the beautiful Surrey Hills. You can enjoy a leisurely riverside stroll or tackle more challenging routes that lead up to the Box Hill summit.Reddit The trails offer a diverse landscape, from shaded woodlands to open chalky downs, providing excellent opportunities for nature observation and photography.Instagram Pack sturdy hiking boots and be prepared for varying terrain and inclines.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of the Stepping Stones

The Stepping Stones across the River Mole in Dorking are more than just a picturesque crossing; they hold a fascinating history. First recorded in 1841, these stones have been a beloved feature of the landscape for generations. Their legacy is deeply intertwined with the natural beauty of the area and its historical significance.Instagram

During World War II, the stones were removed as a wartime precaution, a testament to their importance and the era's anxieties. Fortunately, they were carefully reinstated in 1946 by Clement Attlee, the then-serving Prime Minister, symbolizing a return to normalcy and the preservation of cherished local landmarks.Instagram This act highlights the cultural value placed on these simple stones, connecting past and present visitors to a piece of British history.

Navigating the Box Hill Trails

The Stepping Stones are part of a larger network of trails around Box Hill, offering diverse walking experiences. Visitors can choose from short, circular routes that focus on the iconic stones and a nearby bridge, or embark on longer, more challenging hikes that incorporate the summit of Box Hill.Reddit These trails wind through beautiful woodland and offer glimpses of the River Mole, providing a varied and engaging outdoor adventure.

For those heading to the summit, be prepared for a significant climb. The paths can be steep, and some sections are exposed chalky ground that can become slippery when wet or worn smooth by foot traffic.Reddit However, the reward is the stunning panoramic views from the top, which encompass the rolling Surrey Hills. Comprehensive visitor facilities, including a cafe and toilets, are available at the summit, making it a good place to rest before or after your exploration.

Experiencing the River Mole

The River Mole is a central feature of the Stepping Stones experience, offering a tranquil riverside setting. The water is generally shallow around the stones, making it a popular spot for families and dog owners to paddle and enjoy the cool water, especially during warmer months.Instagram The riverbed is pebbly, so wearing appropriate footwear is advised if you plan to enter the water.Reddit

While the river provides a serene backdrop, it's important to be mindful of its flow. After periods of heavy rain, the River Mole can become faster and deeper, potentially making the stepping stones unsafe to cross. In such conditions, an alternative crossing point via a bridge downstream is usually available.Reddit The gentle flow of the river, however, contributes significantly to the peaceful ambiance of this natural gem.

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