Take The Train To The Tillingbourne Valley And Discover Its Fascinating History

Published on: 26 May, 2017
Updated on: 24 May, 2017

Seven new walking trails have been created along the Tillingbourne Valley, taking in the villages of Shalford, Chilworth, Albury, Shere, Gomshall, Abinger and Wotton.

From tranquil water meadows to stunning hilltops, each Tillingbourne Trail takes in a rich mosaic of woodland, landscaped parks, heathland and more, with each village boasting its own unique setting of historic houses, churches and shops.

Eye-catching posters have been created by local designer Ben Dragon to encourage rail passengers to visit the Tillingbourne Valley.

The new trails have been produced as part of the Tillingbourne Tales Heritage Lottery funded project and reveal a rich social history of an area which was one of the most industrialised river valleys in 17th-century England.

With approximately 50 waterwheels at its height, powering at least 24 mills and supporting more than 12 different industries, including weaving, tanning, iron-working, paper-milling and gunpowder production, the valley’s idyllic landscape held a significant legacy of cultural heritage.

Christine Howard, chairman of the Surrey Hills Society, who helped create the walks, said: “The Tillingbourne Tales project uncovered some wonderful local history and these walks are a wonderful legacy of the project.

“Without the support and dedication of our band of volunteers it would not have been possible to create these walks and I thank them for all their hard work. I encourage everyone to get out and enjoy the Surrey Hills and find out more about the rich heritage of the Tillingbourne Valley.”

Surrey Hills volunteers with the chairman of the Surrey Hills Society, Christine Howard, pictured second from right.

Caroline Price, marketing communications officer for the Surrey Hills, added: “The Surrey Hills are delighted to be working with Great Western Railway on this promotional project [hence inviting walkers to travel by train to the area]. The more we can encourage visitors to this nationally protected landscape in a sustainable way the better and to support our local businesses whilst they are here helps the rural economy.”

To discover more about the Tillingbourne walks, visit www.tillingbournetales.co.uk/places/trails. For further information on the Surrey Hills, visit www.surreyhills.org.