The best walks and hikes around Puttenham

There are several car parks available for accessing Puttenham Common. The main car park is located off Suffield Lane (GU3 1BG), which provides direct access to the network of trails. Another car park at the top of the common offers excellent southerly views towards Hindhead and Blackdown.

Yes, Puttenham and the surrounding Surrey Hills are very popular for dog walking. The wide-open spaces of Puttenham Common provide plenty of room for dogs to explore. As it's a habitat for diverse wildlife and livestock may be present in adjacent fields, it's recommended to keep dogs under control and follow any local signage.

Absolutely. The area offers many gentle walks suitable for families. A great option is the Puttenham Common – Warren Pond and The Tarn loop from Puttenham. It's a relatively short 3-mile (4.8 km) trail that takes you past scenic ponds and through beautiful woodland, making it engaging for all ages.

The terrain is quite varied, which is part of the area's appeal. You can expect a mix of sandy heathland paths on Puttenham Common, shaded woodland trails, and some gentle, rolling hills. The paths are generally well-maintained, but can become muddy after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

Yes, several routes pass through or near the village of Puttenham, which has a pub that is a popular stop for walkers. For a wider selection of cafes and pubs, the nearby town of Guildford is just a short drive away.

The North Downs Way, a long-distance national trail, runs along the northern edge of Puttenham Common. Many local circular walks incorporate a section of this famous path, allowing you to experience part of a historic trail while enjoying a shorter, more manageable hike. You can find more information on the local section from the Surrey County Council.

The area is rich in history. On Puttenham Common, you can find the earthwork remains of Hillbury, an Iron Age hill fort. The trails also offer views of Puttenham Priory, a grand Palladian mansion, and pass by some of Surrey's last remaining traditional hop gardens.

Yes, while many trails are easy, there are more strenuous options. The Puttenham Common & Shacklemore loop is a longer route of around 7.3 miles (11.8 km) that offers a more challenging day out with varied terrain and elevation.

Puttenham offers a great hiking experience year-round. Spring brings bluebells to the woodlands, while late summer is spectacular on Puttenham Common when the heather is in full bloom, covering the heath in a sea of purple. Autumn provides beautiful colours in the deciduous woods.

The trails around Puttenham are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers frequently praise the peaceful atmosphere, the beautiful mix of heathland and woodland, and the stunning views across the Surrey Hills. The well-marked paths and variety of route lengths are also commonly highlighted.

Most of the main paths and popular circular routes are well-defined and easy to follow. Sections that are part of the North Downs Way are marked with the trail's acorn symbol. However, the common has a vast network of smaller paths, so using a GPS app like komoot is recommended to explore with confidence and discover new trails.

Yes, several trails on Puttenham Common take you past picturesque ponds. The Puttenham Common loop from The Tarn is a lovely moderate walk that specifically features The Tarn and General's Pond, offering scenic and tranquil spots along your hike.