LIFETIME of WALKS by DEREK HARWOOD

Steep incline up to '4' and down to '5'. No fence to join crossing track at '5'. Very still and quiet in valley bottom to '6', only disturbed at one point by a frightened woodpecker, from out of the frass and into the woods. Walk almost continually in woods. Good views around but difficult to see due to trees in almost all directions. Difficult to find '9', exit of car park not obvious, two entrances. Toof bridleway to far side of Box Hill buildings and passed only wartime bunker and left track to ridge, but missed fence on left and Labelliere Grave at '10'. May have been better to take track to left of Box Hill buildings at first road bend. Found '12' at corner of fence and walked along track on top side of fence. Very difficult to pass and thick vegetation in places. Steep decline to rive at end of fence. Asked a fisherman where the nearest bridge was, but he pointed to hotel not bridge the other way by stepping stones '14'. Difficult to descend and ascend from path to river continued to look for obvious track, but faint path I followed became steeper and more slippery. One good slip and I would have lost control and battered into a tree or fall into the river. Clung to trees for safety but eventually returned to '12' when the way ahead became far too dangerous. Found huge beetle on the chalk track just before returning to '12.

Location Map: - www.streetmap.co.uk
Box Hill Country Park.

Hazards: Could not find '13' had to return to '12' as too dangerous. very steep and loose underfoot.