The best hikes from bus stations around Godalming

Large kissing gate through which a reasonable sized buggy should be fit. Gate entrance needs levelling. Trampers might struggle.

Stile is a bit wobbily and could do with TLC. There is also no grip so in the words of JBJ could be slippery when wet. There is a gap in the fence to the right of the photo which a medium sized dog should be able to fit through.

There’s now a fantastic cafe at the boat house, open Tuesday to Sunday, amazing coffee and sandwiches which can be enjoyed by the river, inside the cafe or to takeaway.

A little unique feature within the Surrey Hills the area is littered with reminders of the war.

Good viewpoint. Easy access via Octavia Hill trail

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.

This highlight has notable historical significance. It shows the place where the old Wey and Arun Canal started from on the River Wey. For several decades in the 19th century the Wey and Arun Canal was a vital trade link between the south coast and the River Thames and London. The Canal was 23-miles long and linked the rivers Wey and Arun between Shalford in Surrey and Pallingham in Sussex. Commercial trade on the Wey and Arun Canal reached a peak of 23,000 tons in 1839. However, with the establishment of the railways canal trade traffic started to decrease and had virtually stopped by 1868. Although no longer looking at its best the start of the old Canal is still evident 150 years after most canal traffic ceased. Restoration of the Wey and Arun Canal is underway and it is planned that “London’s lost route to the sea” will eventually be reopened.

The River Wey is one of Surrey’s best kept secrets. Many are surprised by the rural tranquility of the river and by its scenic views, open spaces and wildlife. The prettiest part of the River Wey is arguably that between Godalming and Guildford, and in particular the 0.65-mile river section between Trowers Footbridge, Farncombe, and the Tilthams Corner Road. Here the meandering Wey offers a different rural view around each corner. It is a delight to walk on a well-maintained footpath and to observe the tranquil and interesting river and its scenic surroundings. In summer, the canopies from nearby trees add to the river’s beauty. If you are fortunate, you may see a brightly coloured narrowboat either moored or passing by. If you are interested in history, you may wish to study the lovely brick-built Towers bridge that dates from about 1770, and the well-maintained World War II pillbox situated 25m from the river just south of Tilthams Corner Road.