The Story Behind My Mole Gap Trail Artwork
I have recently been invited to create the promotional artwork for the Mole Gap Trail — one of the most loved walking routes in the Surrey Hills. The trail links Leatherhead and Dorking, passing through vineyards, river meadows, and ancient woodland. It’s such an honour to capture this iconic stretch of the landscape in my illustration style.
A Walk That Inspires
The Mole Gap Trail follows the River Mole through the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Highlights include Norbury Park, the open meadows around Denbies Wine Estate, and the famous chalk grasslands below Box Hill.
As someone who often sketches outdoors, I walk this trail often. Each visit brings new colours and moods — from bright spring greens to the warm tones of autumn. It’s this changing light and energy I’ve tried to bring into the final design.
Creating the Artwork
My style is inspired by the 1930s railway travel posters, which celebrated Britain’s landscapes with bold colour and clean lines. For the Mole Gap Trail artwork, I wanted to reflect that tradition — making something timeless, but also fresh for a modern audience.
I began with pencil sketches along the route, paying particular attention to the river curves and vineyard slopes. Back in the studio, I worked these into a composition that leads the eye through the valley, echoing the sense of walking the trail yourself. The final artwork has now been printed in bold colour, with a nod to the vintage posters that have always inspired me.
Part of the Surrey Hills National Landscape Story
Working with the Surrey Hills National Landscape team on this project has been incredibly special. The Mole Gap Trail connects so many of the landscapes that also feature in my print collections — Box Hill, Denbies Vineyard, Norbury Park — places I return to again and again in my work.
Being able to contribute to the visual story of the Surrey Hills, and encourage more people to explore it on foot, is something I’m really proud of.
A Special Unveiling
The artwork was officially unveiled today at Denbies Wine Estate by Councillor Helyn Clack, Chair of Surrey County Council. Seeing my illustration revealed as part of the Mole Gap Trail launch was a wonderful moment — and even more exciting to know that the design will be appearing on posters along local train routes. Keep an eye out next time you’re travelling through Surrey — you might just spot it!