Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Located in Surrey, England, Hindhead Commons and the Devil’s Punch Bowl is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest encompassing approximately 355 hectares of heathland, woodland, and remarkable sandstone cliffs. The Devil’s Punch Bowl itself is a large natural amphitheater formed by erosion of Greensand Ridge, creating steep-sided slopes and a broad bowl-shaped valley that offers panoramic views across the surrounding countryside. The area is ecologically significant for its heathland habitats, which support important wildlife including rare birds such as nightjars and woodlarks, as well as reptiles like adders and sand lizards. The commons around the Punch Bowl contain a mix of heath, grassland, and woodland, maintained largely through conservation grazing and scrub management to preserve the site's biodiversity. Its popularity among visitors stems from extensive walking and mountain biking trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for birdwatching and photography. The site carries historical interest as well, with connections to the A3 road improvements and the nearby Devil’s Punch Bowl Hotel, alongside local folklore. Managed primarily by the National Trust with support from Surrey Wildlife Trust, the area offers an accessible outdoor experience close to urban centers while remaining a vital sanctuary for protected species. Hiking routes range from short circular paths to longer ridge walks, many accessible from nearby parking areas such as the Devil’s Punch Bowl car park. The combination of dramatic landscape features, rare habitats, and convenient location makes this SSSI a favored destination for nature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
