Guildford’s Scenic Escape: River Wey to Hilltop Panoramas

Join us on a beautiful circular walk from Guildford, following the tranquil River Wey before climbing to St Martha’s Hill for sweeping Surrey Hills views. Wander the historic Pilgrims’ Way and return via the shaded charm of Walnut Tree Bottom. A perfect blend of history, scenery, and countryside, all within easy reach of London.

SUMMARY (all info is approximate!)

Distance: 17km/10 miles circular route
Ascent: 400m
Duration: 5 hours walking
Grade: Intermediate, along good paths, with plenty of stops and one gradual ascent.

COST AND LOGISTICS

Cost: £10
Meet: 10.05am Guildford Station
Hike start: 10.15am Guildford Station
Hike finish: 5pm Guildford Station / The White House pub

Recommended morning trains from London
09:30 Dep: London Waterloo
10:02 Arr: Guildford

REVIEWS
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HIKE DESCRIPTION

Starting from Guildford train station, this scenic circular walk blends riverside charm with rolling countryside and historic pathways.

The route begins gently, following the River Wey as it meanders out of town, offering peaceful views and a chance to ease into the walk.

From there, the trail climbs steadily up to St Martha’s Hill, a celebrated local landmark crowned by its hilltop church. The ascent will reward us with sweeping panoramas across the Surrey Hills and the North Downs.

We’ll continue along the Pilgrims’ Way, an ancient track once trodden by medieval travellers, the route traces woodland edges and open fields, capturing Surrey’s rural character.

The final leg leads through Walnut Tree Bottom, a shaded, tranquil stretch that contrasts beautifully with the earlier vistas, before guiding us back into Guildford for the train home or a drink or two in a riverside pub.

Varied, rewarding, and easily accessible, this hike offers a perfect mix of history, scenery, and natural beauty.

PRICE INCLUDES

• Guided hike planned and led by an experienced AAA leader, trained in Outdoor First Aid.

PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE

• Travel costs
• Lunch, drinks or any refreshments
• PayPal fees

RECOMMENDED KIT LIST (complete list)

• Suitable hiking shoes or boots
• Packed lunch and snacks
• Water - 2 litres recommended
• Waterproof jacket and trousers (Please no jeans!)
• Warm windproof layer e.g. Down/Primaloft/Fleece
• Wicking base layer e.g. Polyester/Tencel/Merino

CANCELLING/REFUNDS
If you can no longer make the hike, please message the Host and update your RSVP to say 'No', to allow others to buy your place. If the hike is full, we will refund you, less than the PayPal/Meetup fees.
To obtain this, please email info@aaalondongroup.com after the event, with the email address you use on your PayPal account and transaction reference. If the hike is not full, unfortunately we will not be able to provide any refund.

QUESTIONS
If you have any other questions, please check visit our FAQ page. If you are still unsure, contact the event Host shown on this page.

We have operated over 1,000 events without significant incidents in the last ten years, achieved through meticulous planning. All participants (members and their guests) in any AAA Hiking event or activity are personally responsible for their fitness, safety and welfare, and must be equipped accordingly. If you have signed up for the event, you acknowledge and accept the AAA London Group Terms and Conditions. © AAA London Group Ltd. Errors and Omissions Excepted
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