Walks
Anyone in their 20s or 30s is welcome to come along on a SURG walk. If you're not a
member of The Ramblers, you're welcome to try out a couple of walks
before becoming a member. Our walks range from gentle 3 mile rambles to strenuous
hikes of over 20 miles, so whatever your walking tastes or abilities we're bound
to have something for you.
Wednesday Woking Walk
A midweek evening walk along Basingstoke Canal and Horsell Common.
Distance: 6 miles, circular
Grade: C
Start: 7.00pm prompt, Woking station, High Street exit
Grid ref: TQ006586
(map)
Leader: Andrea
The downs, the heath and the hill
Over the downs, through Headley, over to Reigate Heath, up Colley Hill and around Reigate Hill before coming back via Walton on the Hill. Bring a packed lunch. Potential pub stop at the Black Horse in Reigate Heath for drinks.
Distance: 16 miles, circular
Grade: A (very steep hill)
Start: 9.45am Tattenham Corner station
Grid ref: TQ226582
(map)
Or: 10.00am, Lunch Box car park on Epsom Downs
Grid ref: TQ225585
(map)
Leader: Holly
A walk around Hurtwood
This is a really nice walk in a lovely part of Surrey. There are stunning views from Pitch Hill and Holmbury Hill. Bring a packed lunch. Potential pub stop for drinks.
Distance: 7 miles, circular
Grade: C
Start: 11.00am, The Hurtwood Inn, Peaslake
Grid ref: TQ085448
(map)
Leader: Andy
A walk for young maidens, Dorchester
You are welcome to come down for the day to join the group staying on the Dorset Walking Weekend for a hilly, fast-paced walk (weather depending).
The walk will pass Maiden castle, the largest most complex iron age hill fort in Britain (circa 600BC), also visiting the Hardy Monument, a folly built in 1844 with great views from the top (small entrance fee). Great views across the Dorset countryside and the coast including the Fleet and Abbotsbury.
Bring a packed lunch, possible pub for drinks. For those who want to, return to Dorchester for evening drinks and food (contact Orson for more information).
Distance: 15-18 miles, circular
Grade: A
Start: 10.30am, Maiden castle car park, 2 miles south west of Dorchester
Grid ref: SY669890
(map)
Leader: Orson and Ian
Cerne Abbas: a giant walk, Dorchester
You are welcome to come down for the day to join the group staying on the Dorset Walking Weekend for this walk. Not quite the Cerne Abbas giant (or otherwise known as the rude giant) stands 180 ft tall and 160 ft wide and holds a 120 ft long knobbled club. This walk takes us through a landscape much scarred by mankind both ancient and modern, from bronze age burial mounds to water cress beds and modern day (telephone) masts. On the way out we get the views from the hill tops and then enjoy the walk along the River Cerne valley.
Bring a packed lunch. Possible pub stop for drinks. For those who want to, return to Dorchester for evening drinks and food (contact Orson for more information).
Distance: 16 miles, circular
Grade: A (hilly and fast pace)
Start: 10.30am, Charminster village car park, 2 miles north of Dorchester
Grid ref: SY678927
(map)
Leader: Orson and Ian
Surrey Area Ramblers 25th Anniversary Walk
This year Surrey Area Ramblers celebrates its 25th anniversary and all groups in the area are organising walks on this day to end at Denbies Vineyard at 3.00pm, in time for celebratory tea and cake at 3.30pm. You'll also have a chance to look at the book stall, displays and order an anniversary T-shirt if you wish.
Our walk starts from Leatherhead station and heads south along the River Mole and up to Box Hill viewpoint (where snacks are available from the cafe). We then drop back down to the Mole again via the Stepping Stones (or bridge) and head for Denbies Vineyard for tea.
Bring a packed lunch, possible tea stop at Denbies for Surrey Area 25th birthday celebration. If you prefer not to stay for tea, it's just a mile along the road to Dorking (Main) station where you can catch a train back to Leatherhead.
Distance: 7.5 miles, linear
Grade: C
Start: 11.00am, Leatherhead station (outside main entrance on London bound side)
Grid ref: TQ163568
(map)
Finish: Denbies Wine Estate, near Dorking Main station
Grid ref: TQ165510
(map)
Leader: Andrea
Chobham Common
A midweek evening walk going over a variety of habitats where we may see some evening wildlife. We will stop at The Four Horseshoes at the half way point where food is available until 9.00pm.
Distance: 6 miles, circular
Grade: C
Start: 7.00pm, car park at eastern end of Gracious Pond Road (near Chobham)
Grid ref: SU994636
(map)
Leader: Helen
Guildford to Compton
A midweek evening walk starting along the Hog's Back and then down to the Pilgrims' Way and North Downs Way. We will stop at the Harrow Inn at the half way point, where food and real ales are available.
Distance: 6.5 miles, circular
Grade: C
Start: 7.00pm, the top of The Mount (off the A3100) where the tarmac road ends (near Guildford)
Grid ref: SU984486
(map)
Leader: Helen
Box Hill Cake Muncher
Earn your cake!! Make two different ascents of Box Hill and one of White Hill on this short but energetic walk in the Surrey countryside. The reward is tea and cake in Denbies Vineyard afterwards! No lunch stop.
Distance: 5 miles, circular
Grade: B
Start: 12.30pm, Stepping Stones car park (at foot of Box Hill on A25)
Grid ref: TQ171513
(map)
Leader: Chris T
Leith Hill to the North Downs
Woodland, meadows, sandy paths, chalky trails and a good few hills, this walk has the lot! From Leith Hill over to the North Downs we should get some far-reaching views over Surrey and Sussex from the high points. Pub stop for drinks only. Bring a packed lunch.
Distance: 17 miles, circular
Grade: A
Start: 10.00am Starveall Corner car park, Leith Hill (on Leith Hill Road)
Grid ref: TQ134431
(map)
Leader: Katy
North Downs Way and Banstead Heath
Enjoy fine views from Colley Hill, then it's a leisurely walk to Walton on the Heath, returning over scenic Banstead Heath. Bring a packed lunch, pub stop for drinks at the Sportsman in Mogador.
Distance: 9 miles, circular
Grade: B
Start: 10.30am, Reigate Hill car park
Grid ref: TQ263524
(map)
Leader: Steve D
Arundel and Around
We head out through Arundel Park up on to the Downs. After a descent to the river, we head for Burpham via South Stoke for a drinks stop at The George and Dragon. We then head back on to the Downs before joining the Monarch's Way back into Arundel. A gem of a walk, both varied and scenic.
Distance: 13 miles, circular
Grade: A
Start: 10.45am, top of Arundel High Street on corner outside castle gate
Grid ref: TQ017073
(map)
Leader: James
Windsor Great Park and the Thames
Starting from Egham we head towards Virginia Water Plantation to join the Three Castles Path which we follow to Windsor and meet the Thames. We'll stop for lunch on the river. We then follow it to Runnymede, where the Magna Carter was signed, and back to Egham. Possible pub stop for drinks only. Bring a packed lunch.
Distance: 14 miles, circular
Grade: B
Start: 10.45am, Egham station
Grid ref: TQ013711
(map)
Leader: Chris B
Banstead Woods and Mugswell
A joint walk with SAWW, this easy going walk goes through Banstead Woods, Kingswood, Mugswell and back along The Long Plantation. Dogs are welcome but must be kept under control particularly where animals graze. Possible pub stop for drinks only.
Distance: 8 miles, circular
Grade: B/C (a few small hills)
Start: 1.00pm Banstead Woods car park, off Holly Lane
Grid ref: TQ273583
(map)
Leader: Leanne
Midweek Meander .
An evening walk from Chobham, along the Bourne towards Chobham common.
Distance: 5 miles, circular
Grade: C
Start: 7.00pm prompt, Chobham car park
Grid ref: SU974618
(map)
Leader: Andrea
A Lost Railway Ramble: Rudgwick to Baynards
A gentle stroll along a section of the disused railway line which ran from Guildford to Horsham from 1865 to 1965. The route features several reminders of a bygone railway including bridges, tunnels and stations. Pub stop for drinks.
Distance: 6 miles, circular
Grade: C
Start: 1.30pm, Church Street in Rudgwick outside the Co-op store
Grid ref: TQ087334
(map)
Leader: Darren
Horsley Jubilee Trail Plus
This walk goes through open country, woods and farmland, taking in Effingham Forest and the Sheapleas. Bring a packed lunch.
Distance: 14 miles, circular
Grade: A
Start: 10.30am, Horsley station
Grid ref: TQ092545
(map)
Leader: Neil
Farthing Downs
This is an easy paced walk up to Farthing Downs and Chaldon Church returning along Happy Valley. A few small hills will be encountered. Bring a packed lunch.
Distance: 7 miles, circular
Grade: C
Start: 11.00am, Coulsdon South station
Grid ref: TQ298590
(map)
Leader: John and Sarah
The Tilling Bourne Challenge
A challenging walk around the beautiful Tilling Bourne Valley between Shere and the River Wey near Guildford. The route crosses the Tilling Bourne six times and includes Albury Heath, St Martha's Hill, the Chantries, Shalford Mill, St Catherine's Chapel, Colyers Hanger and Newlands Corner. Possible pub stop for drinks only. Bring a packed lunch.
Distance: 19 miles, circular
Grade: A+ (fast pace with plenty of hills, suitable for experienced long distance walkers only)
Start: 10.00am, Shere car park (Heading west on the A25, turn off into Shere. At the T-junction, do not turn left into the centre of village, but go straight on for 50 yards to the car park on the right.)
Grid ref: TQ074479
(map)
Leader: James
Putting the Charl into the woods
Discover the beautiful countryside and woodland around the border between Surrey and Sussex. Potential pub stop for drinks. Bring a packed lunch.
Distance: 6 miles, circular
Grade: B/C
Start: 11.00am, Edolph's Copse car park off Stan Hill in Charlwood, RH6 0EP
Grid ref: TQ234422
(map)
Leader: Holly
Let's Get Ready To Ramble!
A gentle walk from Reigate to Dorking, passing through the villages of Betchworth and Brockham. Pub stop for drinks in Brockham. Bring a packed lunch.
Distance: 7 miles, linear
Grade: C
Start: 10.30am, Reigate station
Grid ref: TQ255509
(map)
Finish: Dorking Deepdene station
Leader: Gary and Holly
Lethal Leith Hill
A re-run of last year's daunting walk starting from Ockley and finishing in Leatherhead. We start with a climb up Windy Gap to Leith Hill. Then it's down to Friday Street, and up and down more hills including Broadmoor, Old Bury Hill, and Ranmore Common. From Ranmore we go down to the Stepping Stones and up Box Hill (the steep way!), down and up White Hill and round Bocketts Farm into Leatherhead where we can celebrate our achievement with a pint or two at the Running Horse pub! The total ascent is equivalent to climbing a Scottish Munro at 3,000 feet. Bring packed lunch(es). Possible pub stop for drinks.
Distance: 20 miles, linear
Grade: A+ (fast paced, strenuous walk suitable for strong, experienced walkers only)
Start: 9.45am, Ockley station
Grid ref: TQ165405
(map)
Finsih: The Running Horse, Leatherhead (close to Leatherhead station)
(map)
Leader: Paul R and Paul R
Mytchett and Ash Vale
A gentle stroll down the Blackwater Valley, first along the Basingstoke Canal then returning along the River Blackwater. See the canal boats, waterfowl, dragonflies and other wildlife along this easy route surprisingly close to the A331. Pub stop at end. Bring a packed lunch.
Distance: 7 miles, circular
Grade: C
Start: 11.30am, Farnborough North station (Guildford bound side)
Grid ref: SU878567
(map)
Leader: Chris B
Lovely Lewes
Enjoy a long walk in the South Downs with extensive views out to sea and over the weald. Pub stop after 11 miles for drinks, but bring a packed lunch.
Distance: 15 miles, circular
Grade: A
Start: 10.30am, Lewes station (car park fee payable)
Grid ref: TQ416098
(map)
Leader: Chris T
Shoreham, Kent
Passing through Shoreham village, we join the Darent Valley Path to Otford where we then climb up onto the North Downs. After a short pub stop (drinks only) we head down to the Darent Valley Path again passing Lullingstone Castle. Bring a packed lunch.
Distance: 12 miles, circular
Grade: B
Start: 11.00am, Shoreham (Kent) station
Grid ref: TQ526615
(map)
Leader: Fiona
North Downs, Leith and Holmwood
A fast paced walk from Dorking taking in a couple of viewpoints on the North Downs and Leith Hill, returning via Holmwood Common. Afternoon pub stop in Coldharbour for drinks. Bring a packed lunch.
Distance: 16 miles, circular
Grade: A
Start: 10.30am, Dorking (Main) station
Grid ref: TQ171504
(map)
Leader: Colin
Ashtead to Cheam
Mainly using the London Loop we will head through Ashtead and Epsom Commons, Horton Country park and Nonsuch Park. Pub Stop in Ewell Village for drinks only. Bring a packed lunch.
Distance: 10 miles, linear
Grade: C
Start: 10.30am, Cheam station to catch 10.39am train to Ashtead
Grid ref: TQ646251
(map)
Or: 10.45am Ashtead station
Grid ref: TQ590181
(map)
Leader: Carol B
Forest of Dean Weekend, Day 1
You are welcome to come down for the day to join the group on the Walking Weekend. This walk follows the winding river Wye South West and visits King Arthur's cave, the town of Monmouth, Monmouth castle and the naval temple at Kymin. We cross both the rivers Monmow and Wye and return via the vast forested area at Highroad Woods.
Distance: 16 miles, circular
Grade: A (fast pace, hilly)
Start: 10.30am, car park located at Whitchurch just off A40 (follow signs for Hedge Maze), one mile north of Symonds Yat
Grid ref: SO555174
(map)
Leader: Orson and Ian
Forest of Dean Weekend, Day 2
You are welcome to come down for the day to join the group on the Walking Weekend. This walk follows the winding River Wye north eastwards and visits Goodrich castle, Flanesford Priory and the villages of Welsh Bicknor, English Bicknor and Lydbrook. We return to the start via Symonds Yat rock and Symonds Yat east. Note a short ferry journey (pulled manually by rope) across the river Wye is required to return (fee £1.50).
Distance: 14 miles, circular
Grade: A (fast pace, hilly)
Start: 10.30am, car park located at Whitchurch just off A40 (follow signs for Hedge Maze), one mile north of Symonds Yat
Grid ref: SO555174
(map)
Leader: Orson and Ian