Winkworth(a NT Arboretum), Colourful Autumn Leaves, the Greensand Way HIKE

Details

This trail is rich with autumn vibes (depends on weather). Highlights include stretches of the Greensand Way, a National Trust Arboretum (that's free to walk through), and historic Godalming's coffee shops, and a relaxed finish in historic Godalming.

The hike starts from Milford station, then comes to the lakes near Enton Mill, a striking timber-framed building featuring 17th- and 18th-century galleting—a traditional technique using black pebbles in mortar, typical of historic homes in Kent and the South. From there, we head toward Hambledon, where a nearby church and pub set a picturesque scene. We join the Greensand Way, following a sandy bridleway through The Hurtwood, offering sweeping woodland views.

Our lunch stop is at Winkworth Arboretum (some 11 kms into 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.) The final stretch follows the River Wey and Godalming Navigation towpath into town, passing the historic Church of St Peter and St Paul, and ending on Godalming’s ancient High Street.Please note: parts of the route include sunken footpaths, often flanked by tree-lined banks. These can become muddy in wet weather, so walking boots are strongly recommended over trainers.

The highlight of the walk is a visit to Winkworth Arboretum, a stunning 95-acre National Trust site showcasing over 1,000 species of trees. In autumn, the Arboretum bursts into colour, with striking displays of reds and golds among its many rare and beautiful specimens. The Arboretum was founded in 1938 by Dr. Wilfrid Fox, a dermatologist at St George’s Hospital, who developed the site during WWII and donated it to the National Trust in 1952. Entry is free for NT members, and £14 for non-members.

We’ll wrap up our hike in Godalming. Optional : Everyone’s welcome to join for a relaxed tea or a pub stop (BYOD) before we catch the train back to London.

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 Milford at 10:22 Journey time 1 hour 22 minutes. Buy a day return tickets to Milford. 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: Milford at 10:30 am

Hike Finishes: Godalming at Approx. 17:00

Length: 19 Kms, Hiking time: Approx. 5.5 hours. Grade: Easy/Moderate, Ascent: 320m

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

https://instagram.com/trailhikersuk

Terms and Conditions