Harrow-on- the-Hill

Harrow-on-the-Hill, as its name suggests, sits atop a rise in North-West London and the church spire of St Mary's on the crown of the hill is visible from some distance around. Famous for its boys' public school, the village is endowed with some very attractive and historically interesting buildings, sights and monuments. A highlight of the route is a visit to the poet Byron's favourite spot while he attended the school and where he wrote some of his verse. This area also affords some marvellous views to the south, and on a clear day you can see as far as the Hampshire Downs. Access to some areas is private; however our Spy Mission walking route packs in many interesting memorials and treasures as it wends its way uphill and down.

There are several cafes, restaurants and pubs on the hill, and Harrow-on-the-Hill shopping centres are close at hand at the start and end of the Trail for refreshments and public facilities. Due to the nature of this location, expect a walk up a steady incline to begin with (circa one-third of a mile).


Approximate distance 2 miles.
Estimated completion time 2 hours.

The Trail starts and ends at Harrow-on-the-Hill Station.

Nearest Tube Station: Harrow-on-the-Hill (Metropolitan Line)

Bus Routes: see Transport for London at http://www.tfl.gov.uk for routes and times.

Car parking: there are a number of public car parks in Harrow, notably at St Anns and St George's at the shopping centre. There is a long-stay car park which is recommended on Gayton Road (HA1 2HH). This costs £3.50 to park all day on Mon-Fri, £2.40 Sat/Sun, coins required on arrival, exact change only.

The Trail is suitable for pushchairs. It is accessible for wheelchair users for the main part, although there is a long steep hill (ascent and descent) and some streets with narrow pavements and parked cars, which would definitely require assistance.