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Much of the walk has Octavia Hill connections, either through the National Trust, or from more personal association. She lies at rest close to the start of the walk, and within the first mile the route passes a cottage she once owned, a seat erected by her in memory of her mother, a hilltop saved by her for the nation, and one of the Trust’s most popular properties (Chartwell). At Toys Hill there are woodlands named in Octavia Hill’s memory, another cottage once owned by her, and a well that she sank for use by the villagers. As you step out along these paths and enjoy the magnificent views, spare a moment to consider the effect her tremendous vision had on our ability to enjoy open access to this countryside – and give thanks.

Begin on the road leading to the church in Crockham Hill – it is signed from the B2026. Where the lane curves left for the final approach to the church go ahead through a kissing gate beside a field gate, into a meadow at a dedicated picnic area. Cross slightly left ahead towards a gate in a fence and maintain direction on a grass path leading over the undulating meadow which was drastically reshaped by a landslip in 1596.