A post mill built in 1765, old sand mines and a circular walk from Reigate Heath give Reigate a variety of historical and landscape connections. Listed buildings, a walk through the town centre and natural areas with different conservation designations add to the picture. When planning a stay, it helps to consider these themes separately: would you like to explore architectural history, learn about the caves, or set aside time for walks and nature?
Architectural history in Reigate
Reigate Priory is a Grade I listed building. The Church of St Mary Magdalene in Reigate is also listed, at Grade II*. Its extensive medieval fabric dates back to around 1200. Reigate Heath Windmill is also designated a Grade II* listed building. It was built as a post mill in 1765. Reigate therefore brings together different periods: the church preserves fabric from the Middle Ages, while the windmill dates from the 18th century.
The Reigate Caves offer another path into the town’s history. They consist mostly of old sand mines. Tours of the caves include Barons’ Cave in the Castle Grounds and East Cavern and West Cavern in Tunnel Road. The names refer to different areas covered by the tours; if you would like to include the caves in your plans, you can use these specific locations as a guide. The Reigate Town History Treasure Trail offers another way to explore the town’s history, leading through Reigate town centre.
Reigate Heath and outdoor walks
Reigate Heath is designated both a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Local Nature Reserve (LNR). It is also home to Bronze Age burial mounds, which are protected as Scheduled Ancient Monuments. Nature and archaeology come together here without becoming one and the same attraction: the designations apply to the area, while the burial mounds are a distinct part of its historic heritage.
The “Reigate mills and pillboxes circular walk” starts at Reigate Heath. It’s a practical option for anyone who would like to include a walk in their stay. Reigate Hill and Gatton Park are also designated SSSIs; each name refers to a separate protected site.
Priory Park adds nature and play facilities to the picture: it is home to 13 bird species of national conservation importance. The park also has a playground with sensory and water play areas. The water is turned off in winter. If you plan to visit the play area, this seasonal limitation is relevant to your plans.
Plan around the market and your stay
A regular event in Reigate is the market in Tunnel Road: it takes place on the fourth Friday of every month from 9 am to 2 pm. Check the date before travelling if the market is important to your stay. Together with the Treasure Trail through the town centre, it’s another reason to pay attention to the specific day when planning.
When looking for a hotel in Reigate, choosing a focus can help shape your stay. You can plan around the historic buildings, a tour of the caves, market day, or nature and walking routes. The different activities appeal to different interests, so first decide what matters most for your trip and plan your stay around it.
Discover more destinations: Farnham, Salfords, Brookwood, Egham, Chaldon, East Horsley, Betchworth, Ripley.
For the wider travel overview: Surrey.
