Children can discover characters from the classic children’s tale “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” at this Narnia-themed nature trail. The walk is located in Banstead Woods and Chipstead Downs Nature Reserve. Carved posts depicting the site’s special flora and fauna mark out the route. The figures have been carved from standing deadwood, using the site’s own existing natural resources. Banstead Woods and Chipstead Downs has a fascinating history, mentioned in the Domesday Book 1086. It has been in the ownership of Kings and Queens of England, Knights of the Realm and many other interesting people over the years.
Did you know Reigate has a network of ‘caves’ which meander beneath the town centre. Technically, they are in the main old sand mines. While the castle overlooking Reigate has gone, the mound beneath is still present - and has been mined for sand over many years. As a result, many of its dig sites remain and these can be explored with a guide today. Locals refer to the area as the “Reigate Caves” and tours include the Barons’ Cave in the Castle Grounds and the East and West Caverns in Tunnel Road. Your view of Reigate might change once you have experienced what lies beneath your feet!
