Betchworth Quarry

A former quarry, this chalk grassland reserve is rich in wildflowers.

Hidden in the folds of the North Downs, Betchworth Quarry is a dramatic landscape of chalk cliffs, rare orchids, and industrial echoes reclaimed by nature. Once a working lime quarry, this Surrey Wildlife Trust reserve is now a vital habitat for butterflies, birds, and wildflowers. Craggy white cliffs rise above pockets of scrub and open grassland, creating unique lighting and composition opportunities for photographers. The disused lime kilns add a striking backdrop to wildlife encounters—think kestrels hovering near the slopes, or common blues fluttering in the heat. For those who enjoy contrast, texture, and a sense of time reclaimed, Betchworth Quarry offers an unforgettable experience.

Industrial Bones and Wild Beauty

The fusion of natural rewilding and industrial remnants makes Betchworth visually unique. Use the weathered structures as foreground for butterflies and birds in flight, or frame wide shots against the stark white chalk and soft green vegetation. The site is excellent for macro work—orchids, bees, beetles—and also offers moody storytelling potential during overcast days. Kestrels, green woodpeckers, and slow-lurking grass snakes are common photographic targets.

Best Times to Visit:

  • Spring: Orchids begin blooming, butterflies emerge, and birdlife is active across the reserve

  • Summer: Peak time for chalkhill blue, marbled white, and six-spot burnet moths; kestrel activity near cliffs

  • Autumn: Rich earth tones, thistles in seed, and mist rising from valley floors

  • Winter: Atmospheric scenes with stark quarry walls and the call of winter thrushes

Plan Your Visit

  • Park at the nearby Box Hill & Westhumble station or Betchworth village; short walk to entrance

  • Watch footing—uneven terrain and steep areas near cliffs

  • Bring both macro and telephoto lenses for diversity in shots

  • Afternoon light works beautifully across the white chalk surfaces

Did you know?

Betchworth Quarry is part of the Mole Gap to Reigate Escarpment SSSI and plays a key role in conserving rare chalk grassland species. The lime kilns are protected historical features, now surrounded by wild orchids and nesting birds.