Walking in Surrey offers a delightful escape into some of the most beautiful landscapes in Southeast England. Known for its rolling hills, lush woodlands, and picturesque heathlands, Surrey provides a variety of walking paths that cater to all abilities—from leisurely strolls in the countryside to challenging hikes across more rugged terrain. Here are some of the top walks in Surrey that showcase the natural beauty and historical richness of the region.
Popular Walks in Surrey
1. Box Hill Hike
- Length: Various routes, but a popular circular route is about 2.5 miles
- Start/End: Box Hill & Westhumble Station or the National Trust car park
- Highlights: Known for its breathtaking panoramic views over the surrounding countryside, Box Hill offers several trails, including the challenging Box Hill Hike which features steep inclines and stunning vistas. It’s a fantastic spot for picnics and family outings.
2. The North Downs Way
- Specific Section: Guildford to Farnham
- Length: Approximately 11 miles (one way)
- Highlights: This section of the North Downs Way takes you through beautiful mixed woodland, open fields, and along the scenic River Wey. This route is rich in history, with opportunities to explore ruins and historical sites along the way.
3. Virginia Water Lake
- Length: About 4.5 miles (circular)
- Start/End: Virginia Water car park
- Highlights: This easy, flat walk around the picturesque Virginia Water Lake is perfect for families and casual walkers. The area features a cascading waterfall, a 100-foot totem pole, and stunning views of the ornamental lake itself.
4. Leith Hill Tower and Circular Walk
- Length: About 1.5 miles (circular)
- Start/End: Starveall Corner car park
- Highlights: Leith Hill is the highest point in Southeast England and offers spectacular views towards London in the north and the English Channel in the south. The walk up to the Gothic tower, a historic folly, is through dense woodland, opening up at the summit.
5. Winkworth Arboretum to Oakhurst Cottage
- Length: About 2 miles (one way)
- Start/End: Winkworth Arboretum
- Highlights: This gentle walk takes you from the beautifully landscaped Winkworth Arboretum, known for its spectacular seasonal colors and variety of trees, to the quaint Oakhurst Cottage, offering a glimpse into 16th-century life.
6. Thames Path National Trail: Shepperton to Windsor
- Length: Variable, approximately 20 miles if completed in full
- Highlights: This stretch of the Thames Path offers delightful riverside walking, passing through historic towns like Runnymede, where the Magna Carta was signed, and finishing in the royal town of Windsor, under the castle’s watchful eye.
Tips for Walking in Surrey
- Prepare for the Weather: Weather can be unpredictable, so wear suitable clothing and comfortable footwear. Layers and waterproofs are always a good idea.
- Respect the Environment: Stick to the trails, especially in sensitive areas like heathlands, which are home to rare species.
- Navigation: Carry a map and compass, especially when exploring less populated areas or when walking routes with few signs.
- Local Amenities: Many of Surrey’s popular walking routes pass near or through towns where you can enjoy local food and refreshments.
- Safety: Let someone know your route and expected return time, especially if you are venturing into more remote areas.
Walking in Surrey not only provides a great physical workout but also offers a peaceful retreat into nature, with countless opportunities to discover new sights and unwind in the beautiful English countryside. Whether you are seeking solitude, a family outing, or an adventurous hike, Surrey’s trails and paths await.
| Walking Trail | Distance |
|---|---|
| Biggin Hill Circular Walk | 12 km / 7 miles |
| Blackwater Valley Path | 35 km / 22 miles |
| Colne Valley Routes | 72 km / 45 miles |
| Colne Valley Trail | 23 km / 14 miles |
| Downs Link | 58 km / 36 miles |
| Fox Way | 63 km / 39 miles |
| Greensand Way | 179 km / 111 miles |
| Greenwich Meridian Trail | 439 km / 273 miles |
| London Loop | 233 km / 145 miles |
| Mole Gap Trail | 10 km / 6 miles |
| North Downs Way National Trail | 201 km / 125 miles |
| Reigate and Banstead Millennium Trail | 29 km / 18 miles |
| Serpent Trail | 103 km / 64 miles |
| St Swithun’s Way | 55 km / 34 miles |
| Sussex Border Path | 220 km / 137 miles |
| Tandridge Border Path | 87 km / 54 miles |
| Thames Down Link | 24 km / 15 miles |
| Thames Path National Trail | 296 km / 184 miles |
| Vanguard Way | 106 km / 66 miles |
- Walks from Ashford
- Walks from Bagshot
- Walks from Bisley
- Walks from Bramley
- Walks from Burpham
- Walks from Capel
- Walks from Cheam
- Walks from Chiddingfold
- Walks from Chilworth
- Walks from Chipstead
- Walks from Chobham
- Walks from Cobham
- Walks from Compton
- Walks from Deepcut
- Walks from Egham
- Walks from Ewhurst
- Walks from Farnham
- Walks from Frensham
- Walks from Grayswood
- Walks from Guildford
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- Walks from Headley
- Walks from Hurst Green
- Walks from Leigh
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- Walks from Parkgate
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- Walks from Shalford
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- Walks from Staines
- Walks from Stoneleigh
- Walks from Stroud
- Walks from Sutton
- Walks from Tilford
- Walks from Westfield
- Walks from Woking
- Walks from Wotton