Reigate Hill is a chalk escarpment on the North Downs Way with far-reaching views over the Weald towards the South Downs, paired with Gatton Park to the east, where Lancelot 'Capability' Brown laid out lakes, pastures and parkland; together they form a Site of Special Scientific Interest rich in rare wild flowers and the Adonis blue butterfly. On the hilltop stands Reigate Fort, built in the late 1890s to defend London, and a memorial remembers the nine US airmen killed when a B-17 bomber crashed here in the Second World War. Waymarked walks cover the hill and the park, and dogs are welcome on a short lead near livestock. Reviewers rate the views among the best in Surrey and like the cafe and toilets at Wray Lane car park. Tips from visitors: the car park fills on sunny weekends and bank holidays, so come early or midweek; Margery Wood parking uses the JustPark app with no phone signal, so set it up first.
