As Surrey from the Sky is the high-flying theme for Surrey Day 2024 this May, we wanted to share some beautiful Surrey photography and video taken from hilltops and drones to mark the occasion. We hope you enjoy these highlights from our beautiful county.
If you would like to have your own Surrey from the Sky photography added to this Surrey Day blog, please contact us via email.
Albury Organic Vineyard, near Guildford - The Big Ladder Photographer
The hugely talented Big Ladder Photographer is a regular in national newspapers with his spectacular and creative drone photography, such as this eye-catching capture of Albury Organic Vineyard at harvest time. Albury is one of the five founding members of Vineyards of the Surrey Hills, our county's wine route.
Colley Hill, Reigate - Matthew Williams
This stretch of the North Downs above the market town of Reigate is home to Reigate Fort, which was built towards the end of Queen Victoria’s reign as part of a key defence plan to counter the threat of French invasion. It also features a memorial dedicated to nine USAAF airmen who were tragically killed when their plane, a B-17(G) Flying Fortress, crashed into the hill on the evening of Monday March 19, 1945. You can walk all the way to Farnham or Canterbury from Reigate along the North Downs Way - or, for a more leisurely escape, visit the beautiful Gatton Park on select open days.
Gatton Park, near Reigate
Gatton Park near Reigate is a beautiful historic parkland being restored by The Gatton Trust. Stretching 260 acres, the estate lies within the Surrey Hills National Landscape and opens to the public for open days and special events. Gatton’s awe-inspiring views and intricate lake system were designed by renowned English landscape architect, Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown in the 18th century. This clip features the Japanese garden, which was created in 1909 when Japanese arts were at the height of fashion in England.
Guildford Cathedral at sunset - Dan Hannington
We love this stunning shot of Guildford Cathedral captured at sunset by talented Guildford-based photographer, Dan Hannington. Reaching skywards, Guildford Cathedral stands on a commanding spot on Stag Hill, just moments from main transport routes and fifteen minutes’ walk from the town centre.
Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey – Historic Royal Palace
The formal gardens, cobbled courtyards and magnificent Tudor and Baroque architecture of Hampton Court Palace look incredible from every angle – but they’re perhaps even more impressive from above, we think you’ll agree. A 500-year-old national treasure that just gets better with age.
Hans Christmas Anderson, near Guildford
Founded by Hans Alexandersen, chairman of the British Christmas Tree Growers Association from 2019 to 2022 and a passionate grower with over 28 years’ experience, Hans Christmas Anderson have two Surrey locations at Santa Fir, near Shamley Green, and Van Arnhem Nursery, near Godalming.
Leith Hill, near Dorking - Fritz Photography
The highest point in south east England, Leith Hill Tower offers expansive views towards London in the north and the English Channel in the south. Managed by the National Trust, Leith Hill has been popular with visitors since the Victorian times and you can enjoy similar pastimes today but with a modern twist; follow a self-guided trail through ancient woods, the scented Rhododendron Wood or across open heathland.
The Merry Harriers, Hambledon - The Merry Harriers
Surrey's beautiful countryside has an almost magical ability to conceal some of our most exciting destinations just a few lanes away from your normal hustle and bustle routes - as this drone photo of the secluded Merry Harriers in Hambledon near Godalming attests. We recently visited this exciting foodie destination to discover why it has got everybody talking.
Newark Priory, near Ripley - David Cook (@dcook.photography)
One of the many monasteries dissolved during the reign of King Henry VIII, the ruins of Newark Priory are located between Ripley and Pyrford. A grade I listed ancient monument, this stunning scene is located upon private land but can be viewed while walking along the River Wey towpath.
Painshill, Cobham - @ravenous_drones
The Painshill landscape is a walk in a work of art. The garden was designed as a series of living paintings in the 18th century. Winding paths take the walker on a journey to discover stunning views and dramatically placed garden buildings, including a Ruined Abbey, Grotto and Gothic Tower. This video by @ravenous_drones showcases why the landscape is such a favourite of film and television directors.
The Sculpture Park, Churt, near Farnham - The Sculpture Park
Visit one of the most atmospheric sculpture parks in Britain. The Sculpture Park is sited within 10 acres of woodland, lakes, streams and walkways, which are home to a number of wild birds and other creatures. With more than 600 ever-changing sculptures on exhibition from 200+ well-known and up-and-coming sculptors, there will always be something new to discover and a surprise around every corner.
St Martha's Hill, near Guildford - David Cook (@dcook.photography)
Found 573 feet above sea level, looking out over a beautiful stretch of the Surrey Hills National Landscape and North Downs, St Martha's Church is on the Pilgrim's Way between Winchester and Canterbury. Access to the church is by foot, and many thousands of walkers visit every year to enjoy the magnificent views. You can also find Chilworth Manor Vineyard and its brand-new tasting barn on the southern slopes.
Surrey Hills National Landscape - The Lark Ascending
Set to the music of The Lark Ascending by composer Ralph Vaughan Williams, who grew up in the Surrey Hills, discover the beauty of the Surrey Hills National Landscape from the air in this beautiful drone video.
Thorpe Park Resort, near Chertsey
In the build-up to Surrey Day 2024, Thorpe Park has been testing its brand-new ride, Hyperia, which is the UK’s tallest and fastest rollercoaster. Reaching heights of 236ft and speeds of over 80mph, Hyperia officially opens from May 24.
Vineyards of the Surrey Hills - Luke Whatley-Bigg
Surrey's beautiful vineyards are found among the stunning national landscapes of the Surrey Hills, in south east England. Vineyards of the Surrey Hills was founded by Albury Organic Vineyard, Chilworth Manor Vineyard, Denbies Wine Estate, Greyfriars Vineyard and High Clandon Estate Vineyard to champion Surrey wine, and each vineyard welcomes visitors to delight in their views, award-winning English wines and tours and tastings.
If you would like to have your own Surrey from the Sky photography added to this Surrey Day blog, please contact us via email.
Read more
Find out more about Surrey Day 2024 here
The best landmarks and scenic views in Surrey
Film and television locations in Surrey