David McDowall

West Surrey Walks Into History

Surrey has the highest proportion of common land than any other county in England (apart from Hampshire), which explains why it’s a favourite with rural walkers. Although the north of the county is heavily suburbanised, 36,000 acres are open to the public while the 160 square miles of the Surrey Hills are recognised as an area of outstanding natural beauty. David MacDowell’s book laces historical facts with an appreciation of a unique landscape.

Paperback: 262 Pages

Language: English

Format: Paperback

4.5/5
Reviewed By Juliette Foster
“A fascinating book enhanced by the author’s knowledge of his subject.”

LONG, WINDING ROADS

Surrey’s walking routes are legendary and anyone who wants to know more about the history and geology of its landscape should grab a copy of West Surrey Walks into History. This companion guide (other titles in the series include Richmond Park Walks; Windsor Great Park Walks), has been well received by critics and walkers alike, which isn’t surprising considering how much research the author has put into each chapter.

Surrey is an ideal choice of subject as it has a higher proportion of common land than any other English county (apart from Hampshire). Yet despite that it’s not unusual to read/hear disparaging remarks about its countryside. Suburbanisation is heavy in the north while an “intense network” of arterial routes lie further south. Still, the public does have access to 36,000 acres, while the 160 square miles of the Surrey Hills are recognised as an area of outstanding natural beauty.

What makes this book so enjoyable is the breath-taking scale of the author’s knowledge and the historical material he has woven into the narrative. An impressive guide to the Surrey countryside.

Reviewed by Juliette Foster

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