Winkworth (a NT Arboretum), Hydon’s ball summit and Godalming HIKE

Features

• Winkworth Arboretum: A National Trust woodland garden, famed for seasonal colour, particularly in autumn.
• Hydon’s Ball Summit(179): Offers sweeping views across the Surrey Hills
• Juniper Valley: A quiet, lesser-known gem with a mix of chalk grassland and ancient woodland.
• Busbridge Lake: A peaceful private lake often home to swans and other birdlife (viewed from public footpaths).
• Godalming Town: Historic Saxon settlement market town with medieval streets, independent shops, cafes and traditional pubs for post-walk refreshments.

Description
Beginning and ending in historic Godalming, a charming market town in Surrey,, this circular adventure takes you through some of Surrey's most beautiful and diverse landscapes. The walk sets off alongside the River Wey, following peaceful towpaths that offer an easy and scenic start. Early sections of the route provide chances to spot wildlife and enjoy riverside tranquillity.
As the trail gently climbs, you’ll enter the beautiful Winkworth Arboretum (that's free to walk through), a highlight of the walk. A stunning 95-acre site managed by the National Trust. Particularly vibrant in autumn, it's a great spot for a picnic and photography, with its colourful foliage and wide variety of trees. (Free entry for NT members; non-members: £14.) . Our possible lunch stop.

From the arboretum, the route continues through Juniper Valley, where ancient woodland and open meadows blend seamlessly. It’s a quieter section of the walk, ideal for birdwatching and enjoying the natural surroundings. A steady ascent brings you to Hydon’s Ball & Heath, a local high point with excellent views across the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The trail then winds down through peaceful woodland, passing through Four Acre Wood, before skirting the edge of the serene Busbridge Lake. Although privately owned, glimpses of the water through the trees offer a moment of calm and reflection.
The final stretch leads you back into Godalming, with its cobbled lanes, red-brick houses, and charming timber-framed buildings — a fitting end to a varied hike that captures the essence of Surrey’s countryside.

We’ll wrap up our hike in Godalming. Everyone’s welcome to join for a relaxed tea or a pub stop (BYOD) before we catch the train back to London.
**This event is posted in multiple platforms

Meeting Point & Time: London Waterloo Rail Station near WH Smith, opposite to platform 10 & 11 at 08:45 am
Train: 09:00 London Waterloo, arriving at Godalming at 10:17 Journey time 1 hour 17 minutes. Buy a day return ticket to Godalming. You can buy on the day or in advance the day return tickets. 1/3rd off for railcard and group save(minimum 3 people).
Hike Starts: Godalming at 10:20 am
Hike Finishes: Godalming at Approx. 16:00
Length: 18 Kms, Hiking time: Approx. 5 hours. Grade: Easy/Moderate, Ascent: 260m
Cost: £10, which covers the organiser fee (train tickets and any other charges not included)
Hike Leader: Raj 07788839784
What to Bring: Comfortable hiking shoes/boots, Weather-appropriate clothing.
Lunch, snacks, and plenty of water at least one litre.

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