Facts about Hankley Common

Hankley Common is a vast and stunning 1,400-acre nature reserve and Ministry of Defence training area located near the villages of Elstead and Tilford in Surrey. It is part of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is recognized as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its rare Atlantic heathland habitat and diverse wildlife. Historically, the common has been a vital resource for local communities for centuries, used for grazing and wood-cutting, before being acquired for military use in the early 20th century. One of its most fascinating historical features is the ‘Atlantic Wall,’ a massive concrete structure built by Canadian troops in 1943 to practice for the D-Day landings in Normandy; it still stands today as a protected monument. Geographically, the common is characterized by its dramatic undulating terrain, sandy soil, and expansive views, which have made it a world-famous filming location for major movies, including several James Bond films like ‘Skyfall’ and ‘The World Is Not Enough.’ The area is home to rare species of birds such as the woodlark and nightjar, as well as being one of the few places in Britain where you can find all six native reptile species, including the rare sand lizard and smooth snake. The local climate on the common is often more extreme than the surrounding areas, with the sandy soil causing it to be hotter in the summer and colder in the winter, often leading to dramatic morning mists across the purple heather. Architecture in the surrounding villages features quintessential Surrey styles, from medieval timber-framed houses to Victorian brick cottages and grander Arts and Crafts estates. Community life near Hankley Common is deeply connected to the outdoors, with the Hankley Common Golf Club, established in 1897, being one of the most prestigious heathland courses in the country. The area also features the historic Tilford Oak, a tree believed to be over 800 years old, which stands as a silent witness to the region’s long history. During the Victorian era, the common was part of the ‘Peper Harow’ estate, and its landscape was influenced by the agricultural practices of the time. Despite its use as a military training ground, much of the common is open to the public, offering a network of footpaths and bridleways that attract hikers, horse riders, and nature enthusiasts from across the South East. The preservation of the delicate heathland ecosystem is a major priority for the MoD and local conservation groups, ensuring that the common remains a wild and beautiful sanctuary. Today, Hankley Common remains a unique blend of military history, ecological importance, and cinematic fame, providing a sense of wilderness that is rare in the crowded South East of England. The local villages maintain a strong sense of identity, with community events often focused on the conservation and celebration of the local landscape. Whether exploring the wartime ruins or marveling at the seasonal display of heather, visitors to Hankley Common are immersed in one of Britain’s most atmospheric and ecologically rich landscapes.