Deceptive Bends – a population with a broad spectrum

 1 - early days

 

The Mole Valley has been a transport corridor for millennia.

Long before roads were laid, the River Mole carved its winding path through the North Downs, cutting a natural gap towards the Thames. That same corridor—shaped by water—became a route for people.

 

One of the earliest crossings was at the stepping stones near Box Hill stepping stones, part of an ancient trackway. Archaeological evidence suggests this “natural causeway” has been in use since at least 600–450 BC, guiding travellers through the valley since the Stone Age.

 

The Romans later formalised movement through the area with Stane Street, linking London to Chichester. Even then, the North Downs had productive vineyards which flourished here, a tradition echoed today at Denbies Wine Estate.