The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Winkworth Arboretum

There are over 80 dog-friendly hiking trails available around Winkworth Arboretum. These routes cater to various fitness levels, with 38 easy, 41 moderate, and 7 difficult options to explore with your canine companion.

The terrain around Winkworth Arboretum is quite varied. You'll find gentle slopes and more challenging hills, as the arboretum itself is situated on a sloping hillside within the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Many trails feature diverse woodlands, and some include boardwalks around wetland areas and lakes.

Yes, Winkworth Arboretum offers several easy and shorter walks. For example, the arboretum itself has an 'Access for All' route which is approximately 1km and step-free. Outside the arboretum, you can find routes like the Shalford Water Meadows – St. Catherine's Lock loop from Shalford, which is an easy 4 km walk with minimal elevation.

Within Winkworth Arboretum itself, dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads at all times. When exploring trails outside the arboretum, always check local signage, especially in areas with livestock or sensitive wildlife, to confirm if off-leash walking is permitted.

The arboretum is renowned for its diverse collection of trees and shrubs, offering stunning seasonal displays. You and your dog can enjoy serene views of the two lakes and the wetland area. Many trails provide picturesque woodland scenery. While specific viewpoints vary, the hilly terrain often provides glimpses of the surrounding Surrey Hills.

Winkworth Arboretum is beautiful year-round. Spring brings vibrant blooms of magnolias, bluebells, and azaleas. Autumn is particularly spectacular with a kaleidoscope of reds, golds, and browns from maples and oaks. Even winter offers dramatic scenery. Consider visiting during off-peak times for a quieter experience, especially with your dog.

Yes, many of the dog-friendly routes in the area are circular, allowing for a varied experience without retracing your steps. An example is the Wey Navigation Pillbox – St. Catherine's Lock loop from Farncombe, a moderate 12.8 km circular hike.

The komoot community highly rates the trails around Winkworth Arboretum, with an average score of 4.55 out of 5 stars from over 1600 ratings. Reviewers often praise the beautiful woodland scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the overall peaceful atmosphere, making it a fantastic place for walks with dogs.

For those seeking a greater challenge, there are several longer and more demanding routes. For instance, the View from Newlands Corner – Shere Ford and Wooden Bridge loop from Wonersh is a difficult 20 km hike with significant elevation changes, perfect for a full day out with an energetic dog.

Winkworth Arboretum has a tea-room for refreshments, and picnic spots are abundant, especially around the lake. New visitor facilities, including a new café, are expected to open in spring 2026. Many trails outside the arboretum also pass through or near villages where dog-friendly pubs and cafes can be found.

While Winkworth Arboretum is primarily accessed by car, some trails in the wider area can be reached via public transport. For example, routes starting from Shalford or Farncombe, like the St. Catherine's Lock – Wey Navigation Pillbox loop from Shalford, are often more accessible by train or bus, making it easier to start your hike without a car.