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AUTUMN WALKS IN SURREY

Wed 09 Oct 2024

Autumn in Surrey is a magical time for walks, with vibrant landscapes of gold, amber, and red leaves. The county is blessed with several stunning locations perfect for enjoying the crisp air and natural beauty. Here at Martin Flashman and Estate Agents we have put together some of the best places for you to enjoy some lovely autumn walks that are not too far to travel from Weybridge, Walton-on-Thames or Hersham:

River Thames Path

Walking along the River Thames Path from Weybridge or Walton-on-Thames towards Hampton Court is a wonderful way to enjoy the autumn scenery. The riverside trees turn golden and red, and you’ll pass through scenic stretches with plenty of wildlife and riverside pubs for a cozy break.

Oatlands Park and Broadwater Lake

Located right in Weybridge, Oatlands Park offers a peaceful escape with a lovely combination of woodland paths and open spaces. The highlight is the serene Broadwater Lake, surrounded by trees that turn golden in autumn. The walk around the lake is ideal for a relaxed stroll, with opportunities to enjoy the wildlife and peaceful water views.

Wey Navigation Canal

The Wey Navigation is a historic waterway that runs through Weybridge, offering a peaceful and scenic walk along the river. The canal is lined with trees that burst into rich autumn colours, and the walk is flat, making it accessible for all levels. You can follow the towpath in either direction, toward Walton-on-Thames or Byfleet, enjoying the changing scenery along the riverbanks.

Claremont Landscape Garden

A National Trust gem, Claremont Landscape Garden near Esher is an 18th-century garden with beautiful views and a large lake. In autumn, the garden’s wide variety of trees burst into vibrant colour, and the paths around the lake and through the gardens make for a picturesque walk.

Esher Common

Esher Common is a wonderful place for an autumn walk. The common has a variety of woodland trails that take you through scenic forests, ponds, and heathland. In autumn, the woods light up with colour, and the peaceful environment makes it a great spot for a tranquil walk in nature.

Painshill Park

Located in Cobham, Painshill Park is an 18th-century landscape garden known for its beautiful autumn scenery. The park has a stunning collection of trees, and the vibrant autumn colours are reflected in the park’s lakes and rivers. Highlights include the Gothic Temple, the vineyard, and the crystal grotto, all surrounded by the warm tones of autumn.

Bushy Park

Bushy Park, near Hampton Court Palace, is one of the Royal Parks of London and a fantastic place for an autumn walk. The park is home to wide avenues lined with horse chestnuts and oak trees that blaze with colour in autumn. You might even spot herds of deer wandering through the park as you enjoy the crisp autumn air.

Virginia Water

Located within Windsor Great Park, Virginia Water is a beautiful lake surrounded by ancient woodland. The paths around the lake are perfect for leisurely walks, and the trees reflecting on the water during autumn create a postcard-perfect scene. The famous waterfall and the Roman ruins add an extra charm to this location.

Box Hill

Box Hill is one of the most popular walking destinations in Surrey. The hill offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, and its trails are lined with trees that turn into a spectacular array of autumn colours. You can follow the Box Hill Circular Walk or explore the nearby woods, where you'll encounter a mix of beech, oak, and chestnut trees.

Leith Hill

Leith Hill is the highest point in Southeast England, and from its tower, you can get sweeping views across the South Downs to London. Autumn brings a vibrant change in the woodlands around the hill, and the heathland nearby is also worth exploring, offering a different kind of beauty with its wild and rugged feel.

Winkworth Arboretum

Managed by the National Trust, Winkworth Arboretum is particularly famous for its autumn display. With over 1,000 different species of trees and shrubs, the arboretum is a riot of colour in October and November. You’ll find lakes, woodlands, and viewpoints, making it ideal for a tranquil, scenic walk.

Newlands Corner

This peaceful countryside location near Guildford offers easy walks with fantastic views over the Surrey Hills. The rolling hills, open meadows, and woodlands take on stunning autumnal hues, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed afternoon stroll. You can also enjoy views of the South Downs from this area.

The Devil’s Punch Bowl

This natural amphitheater is a vast area of heathland and woodland, perfect for an autumn hike. The Devil’s Punch Bowl offers several trails, from gentle walks to more challenging hikes, all surrounded by the beauty of autumn colours. There are also stories and legends attached to the area, making the experience even more intriguing.

Polesden Lacey

This elegant Edwardian estate near Dorking is surrounded by acres of countryside. The gardens and woodlands offer gentle walking routes, and the autumn leaves create a beautiful contrast with the estate’s grand architecture. You can follow the Polesden Lacey Estate Walk for a longer exploration of the area.

Frensham Ponds

For a more peaceful and serene walk, head to Frensham Ponds. The ponds are set in a nature reserve with heathlands and woodlands, and the colours of autumn reflect beautifully on the still water. It’s a great spot for bird watching as well, adding a sense of tranquillity to your walk.

Hatchlands Park

This National Trust property near Guildford offers wide open spaces, woodland walks, and meadows. In autumn, the park’s trees turn golden and red, providing a beautiful backdrop for an afternoon walk. Hatchlands Park also has a family-friendly atmosphere with activities for children, making it a good spot for a family day out.

Wisley Common

Wisley Common is part of the wider Ockham and Wisley Commons area. This area offers a mix of heathland and woodland, which becomes particularly picturesque during the autumn months. You can enjoy the vibrant colours of the trees, along with wide-open spaces and peaceful trails. The common also links to the Wey Navigation if you're up for a longer walk.

Chobham Common

Chobham Common is one of the largest National Nature Reserves in the South East of England. It offers a unique landscape of heathland, which takes on a different but equally beautiful look in autumn. The common has several walking trails, and while it's not as tree-dense as other locations, the open spaces and warm autumn light create a peaceful atmosphere for a longer walk.

These locations offer a mix of gentle strolls, family-friendly trails, and more adventurous hikes. Make sure to take a camera—Surrey’s autumnal beauty is truly stunning!