We’re heading back down south this week, scouting out walks in Surrey. With the county divided into seven districts, there’s plenty of walking routes to choose from, so let’s get started!
Box Hill
Beginning at a National Trust visitor centre, this 4 mile walk is one for all the family if you’re looking for more than just a ramble. With everything from rope swings to stepping stone trails, adventure is definitely available here; just keep a close eye on your little ones to make sure they don’t fall off anything!
Find out more here: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/box-hill
Godalming – The Squirrel
There’s a pub at the end of this walk (hurray!) and at just 4.5 miles, this linear route won’t require a breadcrumb trail. Perfect for a Sunday stroll, Godalming is an idyllic country setting with the River Wey at your side and quaint, narrow streets to discover. It’s important to note the River Wey does have a tendency to flood after a heavy rainfall, so this route would probably be one to complete during sunnier months.
Read more here: http://www.fancyfreewalks.org/Surrey/Godalming.pdf
Reigate Hill and Gatton Park
The North Downs are calling in this rather refreshing route. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking views, welcoming woodlands and walk in amongst grassland carpeted by wildflowers. Encompassing the Stone Circle (put in place by the Jerusalem Trust to signify the turn of the millennium) and Gatton Park, it really is an embarrassment of riches in the world of walking. Make a trip down there and don’t miss out!
Jot down more info here: http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2010/dec/25/national-trust-uk-winter-walks-gatton-park
Fetcham and Bocketts Farm
This is definitely one of the quicker walks in Surrey, and is ideal for those looking for a bit of a light stroll and want to settle down to a hearty lunch afterwards. What better way to end a walk than devouring an afternoon tea in an 18th century barn? Well, you could visit the adorable array of animals at Bocketts Farm if you wanted to make a whole day of it! Enjoy discovering secret pathways, wild meadows and lose yourself in the beauty of the yew groves of Fetcham Downs.
Plan your visit here: http://www.fancyfreewalks.org/Surrey/BockettsFarm.pdf
Thames Down Link
This fifteen mile walk allows exploration of the countryside that connects the urban area of Kingston with the natural beauty of Surrey Hills. Starting in Kingston Upon Thames, on the Thames Path (it’s all in the name, folks) and finishing up in the village of Westhumble, greenery is not the only thing visitors can walk alongside; Hogsmill River is close at hand for a large portion of the route, so you can enjoy the steady stream whilst you stroll.
More info can be found here:
http://www.surreycc.gov.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/28570/TDLroute.pdf