Greensand Way, Hydon's Ball and Winkworth Arboretum Loop

This loop is generally considered to range from moderate to hard, with some sections requiring good fitness due to regular ascents and descents. While the full loop can be challenging, specific routes within Winkworth Arboretum itself offer easier, family-friendly paths suitable for various fitness levels.

The terrain is highly varied, reflecting the diverse landscape of the Surrey Hills. You'll encounter attractive heathland and peaceful woodlands, moderate to steep slopes (especially around Hydon's Ball Summit), and mixed path types. Surfaces include unpaved tracks, sandy paths, and footpaths, which can be uneven and muddy in wet conditions. Within Winkworth Arboretum, there are also well-maintained paths, some paved sections, and boardwalks.

The loop offers exceptional scenery and several notable points. From Hydon's Ball Summit, you'll find magnificent panoramic views across the countryside. Winkworth Arboretum is a major highlight, famed for its stunning seasonal displays, landscaped lakes like Rowe's Flashe Lake, and hidden glades. You'll also pass St Peter's Church, Hascombe, and sections of the historic Greensand Way.

This trail is rewarding year-round, but the best time depends on what you want to see. Spring offers blooming magnolias, bluebells, and azaleas in Winkworth Arboretum. Autumn brings a spectacular display of vibrant gold, amber, and red foliage. Summer provides pleasant walking conditions, while winter can offer crisp views, though paths may be muddier.

Parking is available at Winkworth Arboretum (National Trust car park, charges may apply for non-members). There may also be limited roadside parking in Hascombe or other nearby villages, but checking local regulations is advised.

The nearest train stations are Godalming and Witley. From these stations, you would typically need to take a local bus service or a taxi to reach the vicinity of the trailhead, such as Hascombe or Winkworth Arboretum. Check local bus timetables for the most up-to-date information.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the public footpaths that make up much of this loop. However, specific rules apply within Winkworth Arboretum, which is a National Trust property. Dogs are usually allowed on leads in most areas of the arboretum, but always check their official website for the latest dog policy before your visit.

No permits are required for hiking the public footpaths. However, Winkworth Arboretum is a National Trust property and requires an entrance fee for non-members. Access to Hydon's Ball, also a National Trust site, is generally free. The trail traverses the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which does not require an entrance fee.

Yes, there are options for refreshments. Winkworth Arboretum has a tearoom or cafe. Additionally, the loop passes near Hascombe, where you can find The White Horse pub, offering a place to stop for food and drinks.

Yes, a significant portion of this loop follows the Greensand Way, a long-distance path. The route also passes through sections of the Winkworth to Oakhurst Wonder Walk, Octavia Hill Walk around Hydon's Ball and Heath, and various routes within Winkworth Arboretum like the Winkworth Route and Boathouse Route.

This loop is special because it combines sections of the historic Greensand Way with two cherished National Trust properties: Hydon's Ball (a memorial to National Trust co-founder Octavia Hill) and Winkworth Arboretum, the National Trust's only arboretum. It traverses the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering a rich diversity of heathland, woodlands, and a specialized tree collection, all with historical and ecological significance.