Top 20 Natural Monuments around Godalming
Best natural monuments around Godalming offer a diverse range of natural features and landscapes. The region, situated within the Surrey Hills, is characterized by its open spaces, rivers, and lush green environments. Visitors can explore a variety of natural monuments, from ancient woodlands to prominent hilltops with expansive views. This area provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities amidst its natural beauty.
Best natural monuments around Godalming
- The most popular natural monuments is Silent Pool, a natural monument that features…
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Silent Pool
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Guildford Castle Grounds
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The 11th-century castle sits atop a hill in Guildford, providing some picturesque views across …
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Hydon's Ball Summit
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Perspectives by Giles Miller – Surrey Hills
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Ancient Yew Trees at Newlands Corner
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Popular around Godalming
Tips from the Community
Good viewpoint. Easy access via Octavia Hill trail
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Indian cafe/shop very much present & seems worth trying. If you're into gin, there's also a distillery with bar (booking might be needed).
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...many feel an eerie stillness looking out over the still water surrounded by the evergreen box trees. Legend has it that this is due to the fate of a woodcutter's daughter who was surprised by a nobleman on a horse as she bathed in the pool. Having failed to lure her to the bank, he rode his horse into the water and caused the girl to move out to deeper water where she drowned. When the woodcutter returned and found her body, he also found the nobleman's hat floating on the water. It bore the crest of none other than Prince John! Source: https://www.visitsurrey.com/listing/silent-pool/66361101/
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Lovely place to enjoy lunch or just a drink
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Hydon's Ball is a prominent hilltop situated in the Surrey Hills AONB not too far from Godalming. The hilltop is one of the top 10 highest points in Surrey and is marked by a trig point. The hill is home to a lovely variety of heathland and woodland, and there are some lovey views on offer of the surrounding countryside from the top. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife whilst you're here, including butterflies and birds of prey.
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The excellent Guildford Castle Grounds are unique, interesting and well worth visiting during a hiking, cycling or running tour. The Grounds are famous for their excellent flower displays in the valley that surrounds the Castle Keep. Other free attractions include the remains of Castle walls, passageways, a Victorian bandstand (where music concerts take place), a delightful 17th century bowling green bordered on one side by specimen beech trees, an impressive war memorial and a life-size statue of Alice Through the Looking Glass. Guildford Castle Grounds has a fascinating history. The Castle is thought to have been built either by William the Conqueror or by one of his barons soon after the Norman invasion of England in 1066. The Castle has been used as a Royal Palace, a prison and as a private residence. The grounds at the Castle were opened as public gardens in 1888 to mark the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria in 1887. You might wish to explore the Guildford Castle Grounds or to simply admire its scenery during a stop for a snack and a drink. However, should you have time, you may also wish to climb the Castle Great Tower via its spiral staircase. This will give a panoramic view of Guildford and its beautiful surrounding countryside, and provide an appreciation of why the Castle’s location is strategically good.
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Estimated to be about 950 years old, the Newlands Corner yew trees are one of the oldest large populations of wild yews growing anywhere in the world. A survey conducted in 2012 found six yews with a girth of at least 19.7 feet (6 m) and 17 yews with a girth of at least 16.4 feet (5 m). The UK’s ‘Ancient Yew Group’ state that the oldest yews originated from about the time of the Norman invasion (and are demonstrably about 950 years old). There is also a ‘Black Death’ cohort of yews that date from soon after 1348 and are about 670 years old. Unfortunately, two of the ancient yew trees at Newlands Corner have died recently for an unknown reason. This has led to the construction of a boardwalk to protect the roots of three of the oldest surviving yews as part of a ‘Yew Tree Project’. The boardwalk is next to the main footpath between Guildford Golf Course and Newlands Corner. It was inspiring to see an ancient yew woodland of international standing where the trees date back to soon after 1066!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unique natural monuments to visit around Godalming?
Beyond the most popular spots, you can explore the diverse landscapes of Ancient Yew Trees at Newlands Corner, home to some of the oldest wild yews in the world. Another unique site is Perspectives by Giles Miller – Surrey Hills, an organic pavilion structure with etched messages offering stunning views.
Are there natural monuments suitable for families with children?
Yes, several natural monuments around Godalming are family-friendly. Silent Pool offers a serene environment with nearby eateries. Guildford Castle Grounds provide open spaces and beautiful gardens for children to explore. Additionally, Winkworth Arboretum features engaging play areas crafted from natural wood, and Broadwater Park has a large playground.
Where can I find panoramic views of the Surrey Hills?
For breathtaking panoramic views, visit Hydon's Ball Summit, one of Surrey's highest points. Chinthurst Hill Tower also offers extensive views and is a great spot for wildlife observation. The Perspectives by Giles Miller – Surrey Hills sculpture provides a unique vantage point over the landscape.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at Godalming's natural monuments?
The natural monuments around Godalming are rich in wildlife. At Hydon's Ball, you might spot butterflies and birds of prey. Chinthurst Hill Tower is known for buzzards, sparrowhawks, red kites, various butterflies, roe deer, and bats. Thursley National Nature Reserve is excellent for bird-watching, and Rodborough Common offers opportunities to see British wildlife amidst heathland and grassland.
Are there any historical natural monuments in the area?
Yes, Guildford Castle Grounds are a significant historical site, with the 11th-century castle atop a hill. Phillips Memorial Park also holds historical significance, named after Jack Phillips of the RMS Titanic. The Ancient Yew Trees at Newlands Corner are estimated to be around 950 years old, dating back to the Norman invasion.
What are some good places for a leisurely walk or picnic?
Winkworth Arboretum is ideal for leisurely strolls and picnics, especially during its spectacular seasonal displays. Phillips Memorial Park offers a pleasant riverside walk and a tranquil pond. Broadwater Park provides a flat and accessible walk around the lake, with amenities like a coffee and waffle stand, making it perfect for a relaxed outing.
Can I find hiking trails near these natural monuments?
Absolutely. The Godalming area, situated within the Surrey Hills AONB, offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can find various trails, from easy to difficult, such as 'The Fox Way: Godalming and River Wey Loop' or the more challenging 'Godalming, Winkworth, Hambledon loop'. For more options, explore the Hiking around Godalming guide.
Are there cycling routes available near the natural monuments?
Yes, there are several cycling routes. For mountain biking, consider trails like 'Cycle Surrey Hills: Elstead and Puttenham Loop' or 'Crooksbury Hill Viewpoint – Puttenham Common loop'. If you prefer gravel biking, routes such as 'View from Newlands Corner – View of Shere loop' are available. You can find detailed information in the MTB Trails around Godalming and Gravel biking around Godalming guides.
What are the best times of year to visit the natural monuments?
The best time to visit depends on what you wish to see. Spring is ideal for Winkworth Arboretum's magnolias, bluebells, and azaleas. Autumn offers vibrant foliage displays across the region, particularly at Winkworth. The Surrey Hills AONB is beautiful year-round for walks and enjoying fresh air. For specific events or seasonal highlights, it's always good to check local listings.
Are there any natural monuments with water features?
Yes, Silent Pool is a prominent natural monument featuring a large, serene pool. Broadwater Park is centered around the beautiful Broadwater Lake, perfect for observing ducks and swans. The River Wey itself also provides peaceful waterside walks and is a significant natural feature of the area.
What kind of plant life can be found at these sites?
The region boasts diverse plant life. Winkworth Arboretum is home to over 1,000 different shrubs and trees, many of which are rare, and is known for its magnolias, bluebells, and azaleas. Chinthurst Hill Tower features oak, sweet chestnut, hazel, rowan, and vibrant wildflower displays. Witley and Milford Commons offer a mix of woodlands and heathlands, while the Ancient Yew Trees at Newlands Corner are a unique botanical highlight.
Are there places to eat or drink near the natural monuments?
Yes, several natural monuments have amenities nearby. Silent Pool has an excellent Indian restaurant and cookery school, along with a gin distillery and cheese shop. Broadwater Park features a convenient coffee and waffle stand. Additionally, the tips for Perspectives by Giles Miller – Surrey Hills mention it as a lovely place to enjoy lunch or a drink.
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