Last updated June 2023 ■
Words by Eleanor Purvis
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The hills surrounding Guildford are full of beautiful nature spots, a vast network of trails, and far-reaching vistas waiting for you to explore. Whether you’re looking to recharge your batteries or burn off some calories on a walk, run, or mountain bike ride, The Guild is in a great location to get out and discover the Surrey Hills area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB).
Surrey Hills stretch across the North Downs from Farnham to Oxted and include the Greensand Hills that run from Haslemere to Leith Hill. Guildford is surrounded by beautiful nature spots, you can explore by foot, two wheels, or public transport and is accessible all year round.
As soon as you walk out of The Guild, you’re within easy reach of some beautiful countryside. We’ve pulled together our favourite local walks for you to enjoy all year round.
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This 5-mile circular walk traverses the hillside leading you to the picture postcard church at St Martha-on-the-hill, with panoramic views over the surrounding countryside. The route includes woodland trails and open fields. This is also a great dog walking route with lots of opportunities for letting your pooch off the lead.
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The river Wey can be easily accessed from your front door. The towpath is a great option for dog walking. We’d recommend heading south along the river Wey, with views over the water meadows and Guildford Castle. The 5-mile route to Godalming follows the river edge with plenty of wildlife to spot in the summer months. View the full route here.
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This 6-mile circular walk starts at the top of Newlands Corner, with panoramic views over the Surrey Hills. Take in the sites of St Martha’s Church, and the tranquil surroundings of the Silent Pool. The route includes a mix of meadows, open countryside, and woodland, view the full route here.
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This 4-mile walk takes you through the picturesque village of Shere. The route follows woodland trails, and country lanes with views over the Tillingbourne Valley. With great pub stops along the way, discover the full route here.
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A short but hilly 3.5-mile circular walk that takes you through the Pewley Down nature reserve, with views over Guildford and the North Downs – check out the route here.
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Surrey hills in the autumn
Surrey Hills truly is a lovely nature spot to visit across all the seasons. We’ve collected all our favourite Surrey Hills hiking routes for you. All these walks are accessible via public transport or by car.
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This 13km loop starts from the national trust centre and includes breathtaking views over the north downs, steep climbs, deep descents, and lots of steps! There are some lovely pubs dotted on the route, to catch some respite and grab a bite to eat. Are you ready for the challenge? Discover details of the route here.
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There is a myriad of trails to discover in this corner of the Surrey Hills. But we’d recommend starting with this 10km walk that takes in the stunning views from Leith Hill Tower – arguably one of the best views in Surrey.
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With views over the Mole Gap and Dorking this elevated route is an easy walk following the north downs way along the chalky hillside. The route takes you through the National Trust site – explore more.
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Explore Hurtwood by foot, with this 10km walk. Enjoy the views over the Weald and the South Downs. The route includes a mix of woodland and heathland.
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Is a large estate run by the national trust. The house is set in beautiful woodland, and meadows waiting for you to explore, and discover more.
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Walk along the north downs way west or east of Guildford. Both directions include some great pubs for a pit stop and fabulous views. The way is extremely well signposted too.
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Gravel track at sunset
Views to Westenhanger
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Views to Westenhanger
There are some great off-road routes to explore. The Surrey Hills includes dedicated mountain bike routes for beginners to experienced riders. Discover more here.
Surrey is also known as a great destination for gruelling hilly road cycling circuits such as Box Hill and the highest point in Southeast England – Leith Hill. Find out more about great routes here.
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