We’ve made some changes to the visitor facilities here at Hindhead Commons and Devil’s Punch Bowl, to improve accessibility for everyone.
For the last five years we’ve been working on a project to improve facilities for visitors. We’ve improved and enlarged the toilet block, including opening a Changing Places toilet; redecorated the café and built a catering and visitor information kiosk.
In the car park, there are 40 new parking spaces increasing the car park's capacity to over 200 spaces. Parking areas have been relocated to improve views and appreciation of the peace and tranquillity of the site.
A new all-weather accessible circular pathway, suitable for off-road wheelchairs and pushchairs, is also open for you to explore.
Hindhead Commons and the Devil’s Punch Bowl café was the first National Trust venue in London and the South East to offer a Changing Places toilet. The facility provides the right equipment and enough space for a person with more complex needs and up to two carers to use the toilet safely and comfortably.
The Multiple Sclerosis Changing Places Charity and the National Trust’s Equality Specialist, Heather Smith, were involved in the design which includes a changing table, adjustable wash-hand basin and ceiling track hoist.
The new building includes a bespoke external roof and is part of a wider project to make the site more accessible. A new all-weather accessible path around the top of the Punch Bowl has opened, thanks to the generous donation from the Black Down Supporters.
- Rob Bishop, Property Operations Manager
The provision of these facilities will enable disabled children, adults and their families and carers to enjoy the spectacular views and a day out in the beautiful Surrey countryside.
The improved café blends in with the existing building, with a new extension, providing a light, airy, seating area with folding glass doors. The end section has open sides, allowing people to have their pets with them, while sitting undercover. There's also access for bats.
A kiosk has replaced the existing shepherd’s hut and includes a membership area and additional food and drink hatch.
We've been able to undertake this work thanks to funding from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and a donation from the Black Down and Hindhead Supporters Group.
2022
Work has been completed on the car park. There are now 40 new parking spaces, increasing the car park's capacity to over 200 spaces with log-marked bays, and the parking areas have been relocated making it easier to park safely at Hindhead Commons and the Devil’s Punch Bowl.
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The European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) finances the EU's contribution to rural development programmes (RDPs).
There’s plenty to do and see at Hindhead Commons, from walking around the Devil’s Punch Bowl to spotting Exmoor ponies.
Learn about the work we’re doing to improve Hindhead Commons and the Devil’s Punch Bowl, allowing for nature to thrive and better access for all.
We believe that nature, beauty and history are for everyone. That’s why we’re supporting wildlife, protecting historic sites and more. Find out about our work.
Find out more about the funding the National Trust receives from grants, and the projects it has helped support.