The best city hikes and walks around Winkworth Arboretum

There are nearly 40 urban hiking trails around Winkworth Arboretum, offering a variety of experiences. The majority of these, over 30, are rated as easy, making them accessible for most hikers.

Urban hikes in this area often feature varied terrain, including paved paths through historic town centers like Godalming, riverside trails along the River Wey, and paths through open green spaces such as the Lammas Lands. While the arboretum itself has hilly inclines, many of the urban routes are relatively flat, with minimal elevation gain.

Yes, many of the urban walks are suitable for families. For instance, the route Godalming Historic Town Centre – The Phillips Memorial Park loop from Godalming offers a pleasant stroll through Godalming's historic center and a park. Within Winkworth Arboretum itself, there's a natural play area called "The Tree Adventure" and children's trails during school holidays, making it a great destination for families.

Many urban trails in the surrounding area are dog-friendly, especially those on public footpaths and through parks. Winkworth Arboretum itself welcomes dogs on leads in most areas, though some restrictions may apply during certain times or in specific zones. Always check local signage and be mindful of other visitors and wildlife.

You can explore the charming historic town of Godalming, with its unique architecture and riverside views. Consider the I can sing a rainbow... – Godalming Historic Town Centre loop from Godalming to discover the town's character. The nearby Lammas Lands also offer expansive green spaces for a refreshing walk.

Yes, many of the urban hikes around Winkworth Arboretum are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Farncombe Boat House – View Across Lammas Lands loop from Godalming, which offers scenic views and a return to your starting location.

The region offers beauty year-round. Spring brings vibrant displays of magnolias, azaleas, and bluebells, especially within Winkworth Arboretum. Summer is ideal for lush greenery and picnics. Autumn is particularly spectacular with the arboretum's renowned fall colors. Even winter offers dramatic scenery and peaceful frosty walks, making any season a good time for an urban hike.

The town of Godalming, which many urban trails pass through or start from, offers numerous cafes and pubs. For example, the Godalming Historic Town Centre – GAIL's Bakery loop from Godalming takes you past a popular bakery. Within Winkworth Arboretum, the Arbor Tea-room provides hot and cold drinks, lunches, and snacks, with new visitor facilities including a cafe planned for 2026.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,600 ratings. Reviewers often praise the charming historic townscapes, the tranquil riverside paths, and the accessibility of the easy routes, which provide a refreshing escape into nature without venturing too far from urban comforts.

Many urban trails, particularly those centered around Godalming, are easily accessible by public transport. Godalming has a train station with connections to London and other major towns, making it a convenient starting point for walks like the View Across Lammas Lands – Farncombe Boat House loop from Godalming. Local bus services also operate in the area, providing access to various trailheads.

Yes, urban trails often offer picturesque views. Along the River Wey, you can enjoy tranquil waterside vistas. Routes that traverse the Lammas Lands provide open perspectives of the surrounding countryside. Within Winkworth Arboretum, the hilly terrain offers elevated viewpoints over the diverse tree collection and the serene lake, especially during autumn's vibrant display.