Scramble to the Secret Falls, Near Dorking, Surrey Hills
Our visits to Broadmoor always make us feel like jungle explorers on an expedition to find a secret waterfall…
I like to think this is because the woods have a wild, jungle-like feel and has absolutely nothing to do with the fact that on our first visit I didn’t bring our OS map, lead everyone in completely the wrong direction, had to call the expedition off, and then persuade everyone to try again the next day!
Whatever the reason, going to the Secret Falls, and then paddling at Friday Street, has quickly become one of our favourite adventures.
The Woods
Exploring the network of narrow tracks through the woods is one of the special things about visiting Broadmoor. Many are surrounded by towering bracken, which is taller than little children and gives that jungle feel.
There is a small natural play area with trees to climb and logs to play on.
Steep Hill!
The woods are on the side of a steep hill so be careful going up and down the paths – some are much steeper than others.
Please see below for full details.
The Tillingbourne Waterfall
For us, the most special thing about these woods is that you can walk to a waterfall – an almost secret waterfall that many people have never heard of.
This is the Tillingbourne Waterfall, which is on private land (so you can’t actually reach or paddle in it) but is visible from a public footpath.
Finding the falls is half the adventure. It isn’t signposted so you have to find your own way down the hill (see below for details).
On the way to the falls there is also a little stream you can paddle in.
Finding the Waterfall
To get your bearings, stand in the car park with your back to the road. The Tillingbourne Waterfall is basically straight ahead and to the left.
The problem you have is that ‘straight ahead’ means straight down a steep hill. We have found two routes down. The first is a gentle route and the second is a steep route straight down the hill.
The Gentle Route
- Keep walking past this play area and you will start to go down the hill. At the bottom of the hill, turn left onto a flat, wide path.
- This path will take you to the hamlet of Broadmoor.
The Steep Route
If you choose this path, please be careful – it is steep and uneven with tree roots.
- Leave the car park by the path to the right that heads away from the road. Follow it until you can turn left.
- This path leads you out of the woods and to the back of some houses. Keep these houses on your right for a short way and then take the first turning on the right, which takes you between the houses and then to the main road.
- This is the hamlet of Broadmoor.
From Broadmoor Hamlet
Further Information
Nearest Town: Dorking, Surrey Hills
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: RH5 6JY
Opens: Daily
Cost: Free
Where to Eat: Bring a blanket and a picnic.
Facilities: None
How Long We Spent There: 2 hours
Buggies: The paths on the hill are steep in places, can be narrow and covered in tree roots. The paths from Broadmoor to Tillingbourne Waterfall are flat and surfaced.
Parking: Car park.
Cost of Parking: Free.
Wildlife You Might See: Birds, butterflies and other insects.
Information Written: September 2020
Ratings
Our visit to Broadmoor and the Tillingbourne Waterfall in the Surrey Hills, near Dorking, is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.
-
Fun
-
Condition
-
Value
-
Would We Go Back
Before taking part in any activities or visiting any places listed, you should make appropriate checks to ensure high quality provision, a safe environment is provided and to check all these details are up to date before you visit and/or take part. We accept no liability (to the fullest extent permitted by law) for the quality of the activities provided or places listed or for the accuracy of any information given.
