Hindhead Commons and the Devil's Punch Bowl form one of the largest stretches of open heath in Surrey, an SSSI within the Wealden Heaths National Nature Reserve. The Punch Bowl is a natural amphitheatre of heather and native trees, and since the A3 went underground through the Hindhead Tunnel in 2011 the old road has been closed to traffic, reuniting the two commons. Walks range from a 300-metre easy-access loop to a viewing platform up to the demanding Roam 639 route, which takes in the floor of the Bowl, Gibbet Hill, the second highest point in Surrey, and the Temple of the Four Winds, passing grazing cattle and Exmoor ponies. A natural play trail sits behind the cafe, and dogs are welcome on short leads. Reviewers enjoy walking the old A3 above the tunnel. Tips from regulars: the paths down into the Bowl are steep, barbecues are banned, and there is no phone signal, so set up the JustPark app before arriving; members park free once checked in.
