The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Shere

Embark on a moderate hiking adventure through the Surrey Hills National Landscape with the Abinger Roughs, Friday Street & Wotton loop from Gomshall. This route covers 8.7 miles (14.0 km) and involves a total elevation gain of 649 feet (198 metres), taking you approximately 3 hours and 48 minutes to complete. You will experience a diverse landscape, from ancient woodlands to open fields, and pass by the tranquil pond at Friday Street, offering rewarding views of the North Downs on clear days. Look out for the vibrant rhododendrons in bloom around Abinger Roughs in late spring.

When planning your visit, be prepared for varied terrain, including tracks that can become muddy, so sturdy boots are essential, especially after rain. The trail is not suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs, or mobility scooters due to steep slopes, gates, and uneven surfaces you will encounter. While dogs are welcome to join you, please keep them on a lead in areas where livestock might be present to ensure their safety and that of local animals.

This loop offers a rich variety of landscapes that showcase the natural beauty of the Surrey Hills. You will traverse charming hamlets and experience the unique atmosphere of Abinger Roughs, known for its ancient trees and seasonal flora. The route provides a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the English countryside, offering a blend of natural serenity and picturesque village charm that makes it a notable experience in the region.

Embark on an easy hike through the Francis Corner Woodland & The Netley Plantation loop, a varied woodland experience in the Surrey Hills. This 2.9-mile (4.6 km) route is largely flat, with a gentle elevation gain of just 77 feet (23 metres), making it suitable for all ages and dog walkers. You can expect to complete this enjoyable loop in about 1 hour and 11 minutes. The paths are mostly hard-packed stone and gravel, offering a 'winter-proof' surface, though some sections might be muddy in colder months. As you hike, you will pass through mature pine plantations and mixed broadleaf trees, leading to the Little Kings Wood viewpoint, where you can enjoy panoramic vistas of Westcott, Dorking, and the North Downs.

While the trail is generally easy and largely flat, be aware that some sections can become muddy during winter months, so appropriate footwear is advisable. The route is suitable for dog walkers, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the adventure. This loop is a great option for a relatively quick outdoor escape, perfect for a morning or afternoon outing. Always check local conditions before you head out, especially after heavy rain.

This trail offers more than just scenic woodlands; a significant portion follows the historic North Downs Way, a long-distance walking trail. You will also encounter circular concrete reservoirs, some built by the Canadian Pioneer Corps during WWII to support D-Day preparations. One of these reservoirs still holds water and supports aquatic life, adding an interesting historical and ecological dimension to your hike. The route also utilizes an old Drove Road, historically used for moving livestock.

Embark on an easy hike from Shere to Silent Pool, a charming route through the picturesque English countryside of the Surrey Hills. This trail covers 2.8 miles (4.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 128 feet (39 metres), making it suitable for all fitness levels and typically taking around 1 hour and 10 minutes to complete. You will experience varied terrain, including ancient woodlands and verdant pastures, with some sections following riverside trails along the River Tillingbourne. The path surfaces range from dedicated hiking paths to natural, unpaved sections, offering a diverse walking experience.

To begin your adventure, Shere village serves as an ideal starting point, known for its charming buildings, a tranquil stream with ducks, and historic churches. You can find opportunities for refreshments at the local cafes and pubs before or after your hike. While the trail is enjoyable year-round, visiting in late April is particularly rewarding, as the woodlands burst into color with beautiful bluebells. The route is well-maintained within the protected Surrey Hills National Landscape, ensuring a pleasant and accessible journey.

This trail connects two notable locations, each rich in character. Shere village, with its idyllic charm and historic architecture, has even been featured as a filming location for movies like 'Four Weddings & A Funeral'. The Silent Pool is a stunning natural spring, famous for its crystal-clear, chalk-fed waters and steeped in local legend. Adjacent to the pool, you will find the Silent Pool Gin distillery, which uses the spring water in its production, adding a unique point of interest to your visit. Along the way, you might also pass ancient churches, such as St James' Church in Shere, which dates back to the 12th century.