Oxted Downs

Heritage Site in Surrey Tandridge

England

Oxted Downs

Radio masts and reservoir A familiar sight when driving south out of Warlingham down towards Oxted. The ridge of the North Downs has numerous radio masts, dating back to WWII. — Radio masts and reservoir Credit: Nigel Freeman

Oxted Downs, located in Surrey, England, is a designated heritage site renowned for its natural beauty and cultural significance. Spanning over 70 hectares, this area of rolling hills, meadows, and woodland offers visitors a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby urban areas.

The landscape of Oxted Downs is characterized by its sweeping vistas, with panoramic views stretching as far as the eye can see. The area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species such as the Duke of Burgundy butterfly and the small blue butterfly. These habitats are carefully managed to ensure the preservation of the area's ecological balance.

In addition to its natural beauty, Oxted Downs has a rich historical and cultural heritage. The site boasts several Bronze Age barrows, providing insights into the area's ancient past. These burial mounds are a testament to the long-standing human presence in the region.

The downs have been enjoyed by locals and visitors alike for centuries, with numerous footpaths and bridleways crisscrossing the area. These pathways offer opportunities for leisurely walks, horseback riding, and cycling, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the stunning surroundings.

Oxted Downs is also a popular spot for picnicking and outdoor activities. Families often gather here to enjoy the open spaces and fresh air, making use of the well-maintained facilities provided.

Overall, Oxted Downs is a cherished heritage site that combines natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities. It continues to be a beloved destination for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Surrey.

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Oxted Downs Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.267/-0.032 or Grid Reference TQ3753. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Radio masts and reservoir

A familiar sight when driving south out of Warlingham down towards Oxted. The ridge of the North Downs has numerous radio masts, dating back to WWII.

Nigel Freeman

Public Bridleway, near the A25

A public bridleway that links two local roads.

Hywel Williams

The Mount, near Oxted

The Mount is a tumulus, an ancient burial mound near Oxted.

Hywel Williams

Railway Bridge, near Oxted

A railway bridge where the road passes under the railway on the approach to Oxted

Hywel Williams

Hay Fields with the North Downs in the background

The hay has been collected ready for storage. In the background a quarry can be seen cutting into the North Downs.

Hywel Williams

Quarry, looking down from the top

Looking down from the edge of the quarry that occupies much of this square.

Hywel Williams

North Downs Golf Course

This seat commands a good view of several of the greens on the North Downs Golf Course

Hywel Williams

Woodland Footpath, part of the Woldingham Country Walk

This footpath is managed by the Woodlands Trust and is about 5.5 miles of walk ending up in Woldingham station.

Hywel Williams

Marlesdon Park footpath

A public footpath that runs through Marlesdon Park. Marlesdon Park was a barren stretch of land until Sir Robert Claydon, the Lord Mayer of London (1679-80) built his home and estate there, planting many trees.

Hywel Williams

Field, next to M25

This field next to the M25 has numerous curious looking pipes sticking vertically out of it. On occasion, surveyors have been seen taking measurements around the pipes. The pipes were inserted a few years ago as countermeasures when a serious landslip caused the field to subside substantially, partially obscuring the M25.

Hywel Williams

Cattle Trough on Woldingham Village Green

According to its difficult-to-read inscription, this dates from 1907.

Richard Mascall

Radio aerials and water reservoir

The Woldingham Water Reservoir is a landmark from all around.

Nigel Freeman

Narrow steep road past the quarry

The road allows you to descend from the north Downs at Woldingham to Oxted

Nigel Freeman

Towards Oxted

At the junction of Chalk Pit Road with Barrow Green Road, you can see over a field towards Oxted.

Nigel Freeman

Convent of the Sacred Heart, Marden Park, Woldingham, Surrey

Viewed looking northwards from the public bridleway

Dr Neil Clifton

Millennium Centre, Woldingham School, Surrey

Just a small part of this large progressive Roman Catholic girls' school

Dr Neil Clifton

Country bridleway with M25 bridge in the distance

This bridleway runs through the land of Barrow Green Court. The residents definitely don't want unwanted visitors judging by the multiple signs and security features. In the distance, the bridlepath can be seen crossing the M25.

Hywel Williams