The best walks and hikes around Guildford

Yes, the area is excellent for circular hikes. Many trails are designed as loops, so you can start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. A great example that combines varied scenery is the St Martha's Hill, Chilworth Gunpowder Works & the River Wey loop from Shalford, which takes you up to a viewpoint, through historic ruins, and along the river.

There are plenty of gentle walks perfect for families. The paths are often well-maintained and avoid major climbs. For a shorter, rewarding walk, consider the Hurtwood, Pitch Hill & Peaslake loop. It's a manageable distance and explores some of the lovely woodland scenery the Surrey Hills are known for.

Most trails in the Surrey Hills are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep your dog under control, especially near livestock or on paths shared with cyclists and horse riders. The open spaces and woodlands, such as those on the Puttenham Common loop from The Tarn, offer great opportunities for you and your dog to explore.

The Surrey Hills provide many stunning viewpoints. Newlands Corner is a very popular spot, known for its panoramic views across the downs. Another local favourite is Pewley Down, which is easily accessible from the town centre. For a hike that includes a famous viewpoint, the Holmbury Hill & Leith Hill loop takes you to Leith Hill Tower, the highest point in South East England, offering incredible vistas.

Many routes pass through or near picturesque villages like Shere and Peaslake, which have traditional pubs and cafes perfect for a mid-hike break. The village of Shere is a highlight on the Shere, Blackheath, and Silent Pool loop, offering several charming options for refreshments.

Most of the popular trailheads have dedicated parking areas. For example, Newlands Corner has a large pay-and-display car park which is a starting point for many walks. Other areas like Chantry Wood and Puttenham Common also have their own car parks. It's a good idea to arrive early on weekends as they can get busy.

Yes, several key hiking areas are accessible by public transport. Buses from Guildford serve nearby villages and trailheads. For example, you can take a bus towards the Newlands Corner area. Shalford station is also a great starting point for walks along the River Wey or up into the hills, such as the Shalford Water Meadows & Loseley Estate loop.

Chantry Wood is a beautiful 200-acre woodland known for its mix of ancient and semi-natural trees. The trails here involve some gentle to moderate uphill paths, often with steps, leading to lovely views over the surrounding area. In spring, the woods are famous for their stunning bluebell displays.

The River Wey provides a fantastic setting for flat, easy-going walks. The towpath offers miles of scenic strolling through water meadows and past historic locks. A lovely route that combines the river with nearby parkland is the Watts Gallery & The Loseley Estate loop, which partly follows the river before heading into the countryside.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 2,400 reviews. Hikers often praise the variety of the landscape, from the stunning views at Newlands Corner and St Martha's Hill to the peaceful woodlands and well-maintained paths along the North Downs Way.

Hiking around Guildford is rewarding year-round. Spring brings carpets of bluebells in woodlands like Chantry Wood. Summer offers long days and lush green landscapes. Autumn is spectacular for its rich colours, while crisp winter days can provide clear, far-reaching views from the hilltops.