Surrey


<p>When temperatures rise, there’s something about being near water that instantly slows the pace. Maybe it’s the shady towpaths, the breeze skimming across a lake or simply the excuse to end with a pub garden and an ice cream. Whether you’re after an easy family stroll, a dog walk with good scenery or a longer hike to stretch your legs, these riverside and lakeside walks are some of Surrey’s loveliest routes for a balmy day.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="844" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Valley-Garden-Virginia-Waters-walkers.jpg" alt="Valley Garden on the banks of Virginia Waters." class="wp-image-66371" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Valley-Garden-Virginia-Waters-walkers.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Valley-Garden-Virginia-Waters-walkers-800x450.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Valley-Garden-Virginia-Waters-walkers-1000x563.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Valley-Garden-Virginia-Waters-walkers-400x225.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Valley-Garden-Virginia-Waters-walkers-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Valley Garden on the banks of Virginia Waters.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-virginia-water-lake-windsor">Virginia Water Lake, Windsor</h2>



<p>Originally conceived as a Royal pleasure ground, <a href="https://www.windsorgreatpark.co.uk/explore/the-park/virginia-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Virginia Water</a> lies at the Southern edge of Windsor Great Park. The 2-mile-long lake is a popular destination for families, walkers and wildlife lovers. In addition to tree-lined shores and vistas, its highlights include The Cascade and The Leptis Magna Ruins. A full circuit of the lake is a bracing 5.25 miles (phew!), but the Cascade and Leptis Magna Ruins are a much shorter stroll.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-claremont-landscape-garden-esher">Claremont Landscape Garden, Esher</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2023/06/Claremont-Landscape-Gardens-amphitheatre-NT-Andrew-Butler-1000x667.jpg" alt="Claremont Landscape Garden in Esher, Surrey. " class="wp-image-48219" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2023/06/Claremont-Landscape-Gardens-amphitheatre-NT-Andrew-Butler-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2023/06/Claremont-Landscape-Gardens-amphitheatre-NT-Andrew-Butler-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2023/06/Claremont-Landscape-Gardens-amphitheatre-NT-Andrew-Butler-400x267.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2023/06/Claremont-Landscape-Gardens-amphitheatre-NT-Andrew-Butler-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2023/06/Claremont-Landscape-Gardens-amphitheatre-NT-Andrew-Butler-788x525.jpg 788w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2023/06/Claremont-Landscape-Gardens-amphitheatre-NT-Andrew-Butler.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo credit: Andrew Butler / National Trust</figcaption></figure>



<p>Two of the most striking highlights that <a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/surrey/claremont-landscape-garden/the-garden-claremont-landscape-garden" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Claremont Landscape Garden</a> is best known for is the stunning amphitheatre, believed to be the largest of its kind left in Europe and the lovely lake. The grass-covered ampitheatre is three acres in size and surrounds one half of the lake. It provides excellent views out across the garden and man-made lake from the top. It&#8217;s the perfect spot for rest, relaxation, or a picnic. Row boats are available to hire during the summer.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-buckland-park-lake-near-reigate">Buckland Park Lake, near Reigate</h2>



<p>Home to a pristine 50-acre lake and a water sports lagoon <a href="https://bucklandparklake.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Buckland Park</a> enjoys almost 50 acres of mature woodland, walking trails and an abundance of birdlife. There’s a relaxed restaurant, open-water swimming and paddle boarding sessions (booking essential). Leave your pooch at home though as dogs are not allowed due to the wildlife. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dapdune-wharf-near-guildford">Dapdune Wharf, near Guildford</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="997" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Guildford-River-Wey-Weyside-and-boats-©GBC.jpg" alt="A riverside walk along the River Wey at Guildford in Surrey." class="wp-image-66370" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Guildford-River-Wey-Weyside-and-boats-©GBC.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Guildford-River-Wey-Weyside-and-boats-©GBC-800x532.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Guildford-River-Wey-Weyside-and-boats-©GBC-1000x665.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Guildford-River-Wey-Weyside-and-boats-©GBC-400x266.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Guildford-River-Wey-Weyside-and-boats-©GBC-768x510.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Picture credit: Guildford Borough Council</figcaption></figure>



<p><a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/surrey/river-wey-and-godalming-navigations-and-dapdune-wharf?,&amp;campid=Affiliates_HC_AWIN_Default_NA&amp;awc=12045_1723464785_3eca41df8e1b330ced5d7e3eefa1f1cf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dapdune</a> is perhaps somewhat of an unsung hero in Surrey. Just a couple of minutes walk from the centre of Guildford, the National Trust site is free to enter and offers a tranquil riverside escape steeped in tangible local history. It was also the most visited free Surrey attraction last year according to new figures. Why not book a boat trip?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weybridge-locks-near-godalming">Weybridge Locks near Godalming</h2>



<p>Take a stroll through&nbsp;Weybridge&nbsp;town along the riverside on this seven-kilometre <a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/surrey/river-wey-and-godalming-navigations-and-dapdune-wharf/weybridge-to-new-haw-lock-walk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">walk</a> where you can follow the River Wey to New Haw Lock, and pass through the locks on the towpath. See the sights including a haunted old cottage, and stop at one of the pretty pubs along the way including <a href="https://www.thewhitehartnewhaw.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The White Hart</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tilgate-lake-near-crawle">Tilgate Lake, near Crawle</h2>



<p></p>



<p>For a full day out it’s worth the trip to <a href="https://crawley.gov.uk/culture/parks-and-open-spaces/gardens-and-parks/tilgate-park" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tilgate</a> as well as a stunning lake in the centre of the park (with a café!) there are lawns and gardens to miles of woodland and bridleways for long leisurely walks &#8211; or water sports if you’re feeling energetic.&nbsp;The Green Flag award winning park also boasts a Nature Centre, maze, walled garden and excellent kids play area.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-mole-gap-trail-near-leatherhead">The Mole Gap Trail, near Leatherhead</h2>



<p>How about a walk that takes in two historic towns with an easy train route home? This lovely trail give you just that and even includes views of England’s largest vineyard. You will discover a river that has carved a route through the chalk of the North Downs and some of the best ancient yew and box woodlands in Europe. <a href="https://surreyhills.org/activity/mole-gap-trail/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The walk</a> handily starts from Leatherhead rail station and finishes at Dorking rail station.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-frensham-little-pond-near-farnham">Frensham Little Pond, near Farnham</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Frensham-Little-Pond-AE-April2025.jpeg" alt="Frensham Little Pond" class="wp-image-60842" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Frensham-Little-Pond-AE-April2025.jpeg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Frensham-Little-Pond-AE-April2025-800x533.jpeg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Frensham-Little-Pond-AE-April2025-1000x667.jpeg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Frensham-Little-Pond-AE-April2025-400x267.jpeg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Frensham-Little-Pond-AE-April2025-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>This is an easy 3.2km (2 mile) circular walk around <a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/surrey/frensham-little-pond" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frensham Little Pond</a> on mostly smooth flat pathways. Fun fact: Frensham Little Pond was originally created in the 13th century, to supply fish to the Bishop of Winchester whilst he was visiting Farnham Castle. Today, though, it’s a sanctuary for wildlife. You can bring your dog, but not allowed to swim (to protect the wildlife). And during the summer months they must be kept on a lead. There’s also a café overlooking the pond. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-abinger-hammer-near-dorking">Abinger Hammer, near Dorking</h2>



<p>This quintessential Surrey village <a href="https://www.visitsurrey.com/listing/abinger-hammer/132914101/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Abinger Hammer</a> has gorgeous 15th century houses and a picture perfect green with a fresh clear stream running through the middle of it. Do waterside walks get any better? Bring a fishing net and a bucket to catch tiddlers, and set up camp with the kids on a picnic blanket. You can take a stroll along the River Tillingbourne, and even have a paddle in the&nbsp;water. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-stepping-stones-box-hill-near-dorking">The Stepping Stones, Box Hill near Dorking</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1501" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Box-Hill-Stepping-Stones-Credit-National-Trust.png" alt="The Stepping Stones at Box Hill near Tadworth in Surrey." class="wp-image-66372" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Box-Hill-Stepping-Stones-Credit-National-Trust.png 1501w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Box-Hill-Stepping-Stones-Credit-National-Trust-800x533.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Box-Hill-Stepping-Stones-Credit-National-Trust-1000x666.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Box-Hill-Stepping-Stones-Credit-National-Trust-400x266.png 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/surrey/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2025/07/Box-Hill-Stepping-Stones-Credit-National-Trust-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1501px) 100vw, 1501px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Stepping Stones at Box Hill. <em>Picture credit: National Trust</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>As waterside walks go, this one&#8217;s a Surrey icon. The Stepping Stones are the perfect spot to stop and watch the river flow by. This trail takes in some glorious views of the Surrey Hills and passes by one of Box Hill&#8217;s oldest buildings, the Fort. Get the National Trust trail <a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/surrey/box-hill/box-hill-stepping-stones-walk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hogsmill-river-trail-near-kingston">Hogsmill River Trail, near Kingston</h2>



<p>Art lovers might like to visit the site where Millais reputedly painted the famous Ophelia in 1851. <a href="https://www.surreycc.gov.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/98548/ES-Hogsmill-River-Trail-Part-Two.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Hogsmill</a> originates in a chalk spring in&nbsp;Ewell. This walk starts at the Malden Manor rail station and passes through the Thames Down Link and ends at the Kingston rail station. Along the way you can see an old water&nbsp;wheel and a wooden footbridge that takes you under the railway through a tunnel with pretty stepping stones to cross along the trail. Finally, the walk takes you up to Clattern Bridge, thought to be one of the oldest in the UK.</p>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-want-more">WANT MORE?</h2>



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Rivers, canals, lakes: 11 wonderful waterside walks in Surrey

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