Reigate Heath and Beyond

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 5.8km loop through Reigate Heath offers a quintessential Surrey trail running experience with a modest 34m of ascent, making it accessible yet rewarding. Starting on the distinctive sandy paths of the heath, you’ll navigate a landscape of heather and gorse before transitioning into the lush, grassy fields near Dungates Farm. The terrain is predominantly soft underfoot, featuring a mix of compacted dirt tracks and shaded woodland trails near Littleton Manor. While the gentler gradients are perfect for maintaining a steady rhythm, be prepared for some muddy patches through the lower farmland sections during the wetter winter months.

Reigate Heath is much more than just a scenic backdrop; it is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a place steeped in local history. As you run, keep an eye out for the iconic 18th-century Reigate Heath Windmill, which is famously home to a chapel—believed to be the only one of its kind in the world. The area is also dotted with Bronze Age burial mounds, adding a sense of ancient mystery to your miles. Running here feels like a quick escape from the bustling market town of Reigate into a peaceful tapestry of English rural heritage and diverse wildlife habitats.