FREE HIKE – Surrey’s Green Heart: A Countryside Adventure

As the mornings brighten and the hills wake earlier, we’re setting out on a full‑day Surrey Hills adventure — a circular hike that winds through ancient woodland, hidden ruins, legendary springs, and one of the most picturesque villages in England. This is a route with character, challenge, and proper storybook scenery.
This is an immersive journey: expect 14–16 miles of varied terrain and approx. 600m of elevation gain as we explore the folds and ridgelines of the North Downs.

## 🕙 Meeting Time

• Meet outside Gomshall Station (GU5 9NX) at 10:30 am
• Hike starts at 10:45 am sharp

Parking is available nearby.
There are no toilets at the station, so please use facilities nearby or on the train.
Please arrive on time — once we set off, we’re heading straight into the adventure.

## 🥾 What to Expect

We begin in Gomshall, easing into the day along forest trails that gradually draw us deeper into the Surrey Hills. One of our highlights is the atmospheric Chilworth Gunpowder Mills — moss‑covered ruins scattered through the trees, where the river once powered an industry long reclaimed by nature.
From there, the landscape shifts around us: shaded valleys, quiet meadows, and steady climbs that open into wide, sweeping views across the Downs. The elevation builds gradually, giving the hike a satisfying sense of progression.

We continue toward the legendary Silent Pool, a spring‑fed pool steeped in folklore. In the late morning light, the water has an almost otherworldly stillness.
Our journey also carries us towards Shere, a village so picturesque it feels like a film set — timbered cottages, narrow lanes, and that timeless countryside calm that Surrey does so well.

The loop continues across a mix of woodland, open ridgelines, and peaceful rural paths before bringing us back toward Gomshall later in the afternoon.

After the hike, we’ll head to a pub near the station for a well‑earned drink — the perfect way to round off a long day on the trails.

This is Surrey at its most dramatic: ancient, green, and quietly wild.

## ⚠️ What to Bring

• Proper hiking boots/shoes
• Weather‑appropriate layers
• At least 2 litres of water
• Packed lunch
• Curiosity, energy, and a sense of adventure

## 🚶‍♂️ Difficulty & Pace

• Moderate due to distance and elevation
• Approx. 13–15 miles at our fitness pace
• Around 600m elevation gain
• Expect uneven ground, mud, and a few steady climbs

We’ll keep a steady, adventurous pace while staying together as a group.

## 📝 Important Notes

• Please stay with or behind the hike leader to keep the group safe and together.
• You are responsible for your own safety and for respecting the environment, wildlife, and fellow walkers.
• This is a voluntary group walk with route guidance only — no service is provided, and no risk or liability is assumed or inferred by the organiser.
• Please read the “About Us” section before signing up: https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities

## 📱 Contact

If you have any issues on the day, message me on WhatsApp: 07830 374629