The Pilgrims' Spine: Dorking to Chilworth
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The Pilgrims' Spine: Dorking to Chilworth via St Martha's Peak & Silent Pool 32K
This is a linear, full-day hike across the Surrey Hills National Landscape, running from Dorking to Chilworth and covering approximately 32 km. The route follows hard-packed chalk ridges, steep sandy climbs, and winding woodland tracks, with an overall ascent of about 930 m and a similar total descent. Expected hiking duration is 9 hours or more, not including breaks.
The itinerary includes notable viewpoints and landmarks such as Denbies Hillside, Silent Pool and White Downs, Hackhurst Downs, and the summit area of St Martha’s Hill, where 360-degree views are available. A mid-hike lunch stop is planned on a grassy ridge crest. The route finishes near a country pub close to the trail end where participants may choose to stop.
Logistics are linear: the group assembles at London Waterloo Station and uses train travel to reach Dorking before starting the walk, and return trains run from the finish area back toward central London. Train tickets are not included; participants are expected to arrange their own rail travel for outbound and return segments. The event grade is described as strenuous and aimed at people with solid walking fitness who can sustain a long-distance, endurance-style hike in variable terrain and weather. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
