One of the biggest reasons people choose to live in Surrey and Hampshire is the incredible access to the outdoors. From ancient woodlands and rolling hills to riverside trails and heathland, there’s no shortage of beautiful places to explore just a short distance from home.
Whether you’re considering moving to the area, have recently settled in, or are simply looking for inspiration for your next weekend adventure, these are some of the best summer walks close to Bourne Estate Agents’ offices.
Many of these locations are free to enjoy, dog-friendly and ideal for families, making them perfect for making the most of the longer summer days.
1. Farnham – Frensham Little Pond & Great Pond
If you’re looking for one of Surrey’s most iconic summer walks, Frensham Ponds is hard to beat.
Surrounded by heathland, woodland and sandy beaches, the area offers several circular walking routes suitable for all abilities. It’s particularly popular during the warmer months thanks to its picturesque scenery and opportunities to stop for a picnic.
Highlights
- Circular walks from 2–6 miles
- Beautiful heathland and lakes
- Dog-friendly
- Family-friendly
- Ideal for sunrise or sunset walks
- Nearby cafés and country pubs
Perfect for: Families, dog owners and nature lovers.
2. Guildford – The River Wey & Dapdune Wharf
Guildford offers one of Surrey’s most relaxing riverside walks.
Following the River Wey Navigation, walkers can enjoy peaceful waterside paths, historic locks and beautiful countryside, all within walking distance of Guildford town centre.
The route can be extended towards Shalford or into the Surrey Hills for a longer day out.
Highlights
- Flat, accessible paths
- Historic waterways
- Wildlife spotting
- Excellent cafés nearby
- Easy access from Guildford station
Perfect for: Gentle weekend strolls and family walks.
3. Godalming – Winkworth Arboretum & Hydon’s Ball
Godalming is surrounded by some of Surrey’s finest countryside.
Winkworth Arboretum provides stunning woodland walks, while nearby Hydon’s Ball offers panoramic views across the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Summer brings colourful wildflowers, shaded woodland and peaceful trails.
Highlights
- Woodland walks
- Spectacular viewpoints
- Seasonal colour
- National Trust location
- Plenty of picnic spots
Perfect for: Couples, photographers and walkers seeking peaceful countryside.
4. Cobham – Painshill Park
Cobham is home to one of Surrey’s most beautiful landscaped parks.
Painshill offers elegant lakes, woodland trails, follies and the famous Crystal Grotto, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely summer walk.
The combination of history, landscape design and open space makes it popular with visitors of all ages.
Highlights
- Landscaped gardens
- Lakeside walks
- Historic architecture
- Family-friendly
- Excellent café
Perfect for: Relaxed weekend afternoons and family outings.
5. Petersfield – Queen Elizabeth Country Park
Situated on the edge of the South Downs National Park, Petersfield offers outstanding walking opportunities.
Queen Elizabeth Country Park features miles of woodland trails, cycling routes and panoramic viewpoints from Butser Hill, one of Hampshire’s highest points.
Highlights
- Extensive woodland
- South Downs scenery
- Mountain bike trails
- Children’s play areas
- Visitor centre and café
Perfect for: Active families and outdoor enthusiasts.
6. Alton – The Watercress Way
The Watercress Way follows former railway lines through the Hampshire countryside, connecting picturesque villages, farmland and nature reserves.
The route is ideal for walkers looking for peaceful rural scenery without challenging climbs.
Nearby Alton also offers excellent independent cafés to enjoy after your walk.
Highlights
- Gentle walking routes
- Countryside views
- Historic railway heritage
- Wildlife
- Suitable for all abilities
Perfect for: Leisurely weekend walks.
7. Ash Vale – Basingstoke Canal & Ash Ranges
Ash Vale combines waterside walks with expansive heathland.
The Basingstoke Canal provides tranquil towpaths perfect for walking, while nearby Ash Ranges offer wide open landscapes and far-reaching views.
It’s a fantastic location for dog walking and escaping into nature close to local amenities.
Highlights
- Canal-side walking
- Open heathland
- Wildlife
- Flat terrain
- Excellent for dogs
Perfect for: Daily exercise and longer countryside walks.
8. Woking – Horsell Common
Made famous by The War of the Worlds, Horsell Common remains one of Surrey’s best-loved green spaces.
The network of woodland paths and open heathland makes it ideal throughout the summer, with routes suitable for every age and fitness level.
Despite feeling wonderfully rural, it’s just minutes from Woking town centre.
Highlights
- Woodland and heathland
- Family-friendly trails
- Rich wildlife
- Easy parking
- Close to cafés and restaurants
Perfect for: Weekend walks and evening strolls.
Why Outdoor Living Matters
One of the greatest benefits of living in Surrey and Hampshire is that beautiful countryside is never far away.
Whether you’re looking for riverside walks, woodland adventures or panoramic hilltop views, the region offers an exceptional quality of life.
Residents enjoy:
- Hundreds of miles of public footpaths
- National Trust properties
- Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty
- The South Downs National Park
- Family-friendly country parks
- Dog-friendly walking routes
- Independent cafés and country pubs nearby
- Easy access to London while enjoying a greener lifestyle
It’s this balance between town convenience and countryside living that continues to attract buyers and tenants from across the South East.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best walks near Farnham?
Frensham Little Pond and Frensham Great Pond are among the area’s most popular walking destinations, offering scenic lakeside trails, heathland and woodland suitable for families and dog walkers.
Where can I go for a riverside walk near Guildford?
The River Wey Navigation is one of the best riverside walks in Surrey, with flat towpaths, historic locks and easy access from Guildford town centre.
Are there family-friendly walks near Woking?
Yes. Horsell Common offers a variety of accessible walking routes, open spaces and woodland trails that are ideal for families, children and dog owners.
Which walks are best for panoramic views?
For spectacular viewpoints, Butser Hill near Petersfield and Hydon’s Ball near Godalming both offer breathtaking scenery across the South Downs and Surrey Hills.
Are these walks dog-friendly?
Most of the featured locations welcome dogs, although some areas may require leads during certain seasons to protect wildlife or grazing livestock. It’s always worth checking local guidance before visiting.
Discover the Lifestyle That Makes Surrey & Hampshire So Special
Finding the right home isn’t just about the property itself – it’s about the lifestyle that comes with it. Easy access to beautiful countryside, thriving market towns, excellent schools and outstanding transport links all contribute to making Surrey and Hampshire some of the most desirable places to live in the South East.
Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, relocate with your family or find the perfect rental property, Bourne Estate Agents’ local experts are here to help you discover not just your next home, but the community and lifestyle that make these areas so special.
