FREE HIKE 27km | The Devil’s Jumps to Waverley Abbey | Farnham

SUMMARY:
🥾 27 km (16.7 miles) | Point-to-point | Ascent: 384 m | ~7 hours
📍 Start: Bentley (Hampshire) at 10:15 | 🚆 Direct train from London Waterloo via Farnham
🏁 Finish: Farnham approx. 17:00-18:00 (with breaks)
⚠️ Uneven terrain
📈 Grade: Moderate

ABOUT:
Beginning at Bentley Railway Station, the hike sets off through the peaceful woodland trails of Alice Holt Forest, where tall pines, birdsong, and well-maintained paths create a calm and inviting start.

Leaving the forest behind, the route leads north toward Frensham Great Pond, a scenic expanse of water with sandy shores, perfect for a quiet rest or a quick dip on warm days.

From here, the trail climbs gradually towards the Devil’s Jumps on Churt Common, where the Bronze Age burial mounds known as the high and medium jumps offer panoramic views and a touch of ancient mystery.

Continuing on, the path passes the reflective waters of The Flashes, an open and peaceful stretch of heathland and marsh that attracts local wildlife and offers a sense of solitude.

The route then winds through woodland and across gentle meadows toward the historic ruins of Waverley Abbey, a tranquil and atmospheric site nestled by the River Wey.

The final leg follows quiet trails north along the river’s edge, arriving at Farnham Railway Station, where the hike concludes with convenient onward travel options.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Alice Holt Forest: Begin your journey in the hushed serenity of Alice Holt, where tall pines and bird-filled canopies offer a rejuvenating and shaded start.
• Frensham Great Pond: Descend to the soft sands and still waters of this scenic pond—perfect for a peaceful break or a refreshing pause near the water’s edge.
• Devil’s Jumps: Climb to these ancient Bronze Age burial mounds, where the “high” and “medium” jumps provide striking views and a powerful sense of prehistoric mystery.
• The Flashes (115-hectare Local Nature Reserve) and Churt Common: Walk through open heathland dotted with reflective pools. A haven for birdlife and a meditative, quiet stretch of trail.
• Waverley Abbey: Step into history among the romantic ruins of this 12th-century monastery nestled beside the River Wey—a highlight for photographers and history lovers.

TIPS: 💡

• Devil’s Jumps can be slippery if wet—watch your footing on inclines.
• In Alice Holt Forest, trails can have exposed roots and loose gravel. Mind your footing.
• Ticks are common in long grass and woodland (Alice Holt, Churt Common). Wear long trousers, use repellent, and check your skin after the hike.
• Keep an eye out for deer and birds in Alice Holt.

COST:

• Free

TRAINS:

• Outbound: 08:54 from London Waterloo via Farnham (direct train)
• Arrival: 10:02 at Bentley (Hampshire)

MEETING POINT & TIME:

• Meet: Meet at Bentley railway station car park immediately after the 10:02 train from London Waterloo arrives.
• Walk starts: 10:15 from Bentley (Hampshire) railway station
• Walk finishes: Approx. 17:00–18:00 in Farnham

DISTANCE AND DIFFICULTY:

• Total distance: approx 27 km (16.7 miles)
• Ascent: 384 m
• Descent: 393
• Max elevation: 134 m
• Grading: Moderate
• Time: Approx. 7 hours (with breaks)
• Pace: 5 km/h (~3.1 mph)

GUIDE:

• See attendee list

WHAT TO BRING:

• Water (2 litres recommended)
• Snacks and packed lunch
• Rainproof (ideally waterproof) clothing
• Sturdy shoes or hiking boots

SAFETY: ⚠️

• As adults, you are fully responsible for your own safety and decisions throughout the walk.
• Adders (non-aggressive snakes) may bask on warm days in heathland areas.
• Ticks are common in long grass and woodland (Alice Holt, Churt Common). Wear long trousers and check your skin after the hike.

NOTES:

• This is a group hike led by volunteers. Everyone is welcome to join.
• A few wrong turns? That’s part of the fun!
• While you're free to “hike your own hike,” we encourage group participation, get to know one another, make new friends, and enjoy the journey together.
• Food options are limited en route, bring lunch.

DISCLAIMER:
Event Participation Disclaimer
By signing up for an event we host, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

• The organisers are not qualified hiking leaders, certified first aiders, or formally trained in navigation, survival, or any related disciplines.
• These hikes are informal, self-guided gatherings of like-minded individuals.
• The hosts expressly disclaim all responsibility and liability for any injuries, accidents, or safety incidents that may occur during participation.
• Participation is entirely voluntary, and all attendees are solely responsible for their own safety and well-being.
• These events are non-commercial and are organised purely as a recreational hobby, with no business or financial interests involved.
• Hiking and outdoor activities inherently carry risks of personal injury. By choosing to participate, you accept these risks and take full responsibility for your own actions and decisions.

GENERAL GROUP POLICY:

• Voluntary Participation: Attendance is at your own risk. The group and hosts bear no liability.
• No Professional Duty of Care: Hosts are volunteers, not trained guides or medical professionals.
• Insurance Is Your Responsibility: If desired, you must arrange your own personal insurance.
• Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles at all times.
• Emergency Preparedness: You are responsible for organising your own emergency plan.
• Weather and Safety: Events may be cancelled or changed if conditions are deemed unsafe.
• Self-Assessment Required: You must honestly assess your fitness and ability to keep pace with the group.
• No Guaranteed Rescue: While help may be offered, full rescue capabilities should not be expected.
• No Minors Without Guardians: Participants must be over 21.
• Right to Refuse Participation: Hosts may turn away any individual who appears unprepared or poses a safety risk to others.
• First Aid Preparedness Encouraged: It is highly recommended that each participant carries a small first aid kit for minor injuries such as cuts, scrapes, bites, and blisters.

FINAL ACKNOWLEDGMENT:
By attending this event, you confirm that you are participating voluntarily and at your own risk. Neither the host nor the group accepts responsibility for any injury, loss, or damage incurred.