Here, you will come into the historic village of Wonersh (Saxon for crooked field). About 100 years later, 4 locks were build between Guildford and Godalming, becoming the Godalming navigation. Departures leave from Dapdune Wharf. The Wey Navigation was built 100 years before the Canal Age. Continue ahead, past the stables and a couple of houses, to reach the T-junction with the road, Lower Eashing. A little further away, (but not too far). There is an excellent pub in Eashing , half way round! At the railway station, turn right and follow the railway line until you meet the Wey Navigation. Stay with this path which leads you over several boardwalks and via flights of steps, taking care as it can be very muddy and slippery in part. There is a well maintained and signposted National Trust towpath that runs the length of the route. Take in the beautiful Surrey scenery by boating along the River Wey Navigation. Why not join the River Wey volunteers and get out in the fresh air? Eventually you will emerge from the woodland via another staggered barrier. Discover our different types of membership, River Wey and Godalming Navigations and Dapdune Wharf, back to River Wey and Godalming Navigations and Dapdune Wharf, A boat trip on the Dapdune Belle at River Wey, Man standing on the footbridge over the River Wey near Bowers Lock, Teenagers dip fishing nets on poles into the water at River Wey, Family-friendly things to do at River Wey Navigations and Dapdune Wharf, Climate change adaptation guidance for heritage organisations, National Trust Registered Charity 205846 Heelis, Kemble Drive, Swindon SN2 2NA. During heat waves, you will find kids jumping off the bridge, and people generally taking a dip to cool down from the heat. Walk along the river to St Catherine's Lock The next section of the walk along the River Wey is easy, along a wide dirt path. I really enjoy going for a walk in this park along the trail. Santa Ana Riverwalk Trail. Thats kind of why I chose to do it on this day. Fun Fact: During the winter months, they would raise the level of the River Wey to flood the field. Tranquil waterway running for nearly 20 miles through the heart of Surrey. To the left of you is a big field. Our second-hand bookshop, the Book Shed, is an Aladdins cave of books. Try this rout. How about a nice, flat six-miler? For the whole outing, including trains, sights and meals, allow at least 9 hours. Lots to see along the River Wey including the Phillips Memorial Park and Eashing bridges, The Fox Way (long distance walking route), Munstead Wood (home of Gertrude Jekyll 1843-1932). This bit I found quite calming. Great path to walk (or even run) for the whole family! Not sure what class they belong in. Just past the barges you will reach Cattashall Lock. A walk along the Basingstoke Canal. At this time, there was also a barge parked up, which I assume was their own personal toy. The Basingstoke Canal Towpath Trail is 33 miles from Penny Bridge to the River Wey at Woodham. Godalming is a town with many famous sons and daughters, for example, artist, gardener and craftswoman, Gertrude Jekyll, and in 1881 became . In the 1800s, when railways started to appear, trade moved away from the rivers. How does the braking system work in a car? Lovely scenery particularly on the second part of the walk near the River Wey. definitely muddy in a few places, but easy walking :). Within one of the gardens on your right, look out for the old monkey puzzle tree which has grown significantly taller than the cottage itself. The view across the river is actually quite pretty, with the houses. This walk covers the southern part of the River Wey from the busy centre of Guildford the path soon takes on a rural nature. There were also some unique looking trees along this bit. Nice walking trail. If travel guides like this interest you, head over tomy blog pageto find out more! 12 locks were build and ready for use in 1653. Box hill and Stepping Stones walk 4 miles. To keep this an easy ready I will bullet point some of its history. With a view to the tree covered hills, and a little secluded looking home in the distance. I shall not reiterate a full description of the history of the Wey Navigation, covered very well by Richard Clayton in his introduction to Walk 31. Shalford was an important intersection in the river, bringing gunpowder and other milled products from the River Tillingbourne. Leave Godalming rail station via the main exit (on Platform 2), cross the road and turn left along the pavement. Not great for Bandit Dog. Lots to see along the River Wey including the Phillips Memorial Park and Eashing bridges. More similar or nearby walking recommendations, will be at the end of the post . But if thats your vibe, then Im all for it. Enjoy walking along the River Wey with pretty tree lines river paths. This village was a hive of industry in the 1400s when the area developed a highly successful cloth-making industry. Now, there is a way to continue the walk along the river, kind of. A few stinging nettles but all good. Nice walk but wear proper boots if you go during winter as some of the trail gets pretty muddy. Keep going until you meet Broadford Bridge, which crosses over the river at Shalford. Some great views too, only downsides are muddy paths (inevitable at this time of year I know) that were slanted so very difficult not to slip about, also some points where you had to walk on a road with no path and sharp corners so difficult to see oncoming traffic. . The canal route runs from the Godalming Navigation of the River Wey at Shalford, near Guildford in Surrey, . Flying about in their flock. The Godalming Navigation, opened in 1764, enabled barges to work a further four miles upriver. Noted a few birds, but no wildlife, except for a few weirdly dressed walkers. You will also walk past this roller thing. Ok, now you are properly on the River Wey, and the walk is all simple from here. As its apoint to point trail, it lacks the luxury of a circular route where you can drive to the starting point and leave from the same place you began. Find information for boat users and licences here. This is a very popular area for hiking and walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Open 9am-5.30pm. Is there confession in the Armenian Church? Food /drink: At Shalford, youll find The Parrot Inn and The Seahorse pub, as well as the Snooty Fox caf and groceries. Have to ask to cross over the bridge at the station - lovely walk. Anyway, keep going and you will soon reach Instead Lock. Those ads you do see are predominantly from local businesses promoting local services. Still a great circular walk though! Cross over the bridge, and you will see orange ground ahead to the right. Welcome to this community site about the Wey Valley. Beyond the woodland, the bridleway leads you under power lines and continues with a horse paddock on the left. There are many different trails along the River Wey, with most trails taking in different lengths of the towpath, but you can also explore the local countryside to enjoy far-reaching views of the North Downs. Easily-accessible paths. Paddling along the River Wey Navigations is a great way to explore this historic waterway. The Wey Navigation was built 100 years before the Canal Age. The River Wey Navigation opened in 1653. Luckily both are situated close to railway stations:West Byfleet(start) andGuildford(finish) both operateNational Rail trains and are on the same line. In fact, it becomes less trail, and more tidy path. The Godalming Navigation, which links it to Godalming, has a further four locks and was completed in 1764. Nice trail with a mixture of woodland and farmland. Today the bridges are owned by the National Trust. England - South England - Surrey - River Walk. access to Dapdune Wharf from town centre via towpath or Woodbridge Road. After St Catherines Lock, the route stays open air, with fields to the side. Cross this and continue a few paces forward to reach the road. Copyright @ 2019 She walks in England - All Right Reserved. Bring your family to the Dapdune Wharf on winter weekends until 19 March. Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. I was kicking myself that I ended up paying double the train fair that I needed to. Follow the A281 for a mile-and-a-half. Most of the Wharf is slightly uneven terrain. The trips take about 40 minutes, and leave at 11am, 11.50am, 12.40pm, 2pm, 2.50pm and 3.40pm. The most common route is a 19km walk along the canal and towpath between Guildford and West Byfleet. Alternatively, if you want a quick glance at a few: Guidlford to St Marthas Church walk 11 miles. The walk has a few gentle climbs and descents throughout. The entire roundtrip hike / walk can be completed in less than an hour. You may see roe deer scurrying about in the fields on either side of the river, kestrels and parakeets above and a good variety of bats and owls at night. 5) Wonersh makes a nice place to stop, with a village shop and the newly-refurbished The Grantley Arms pub (you can read more about that on page 77). Take it at your own pace, admiring the water for darting fish, drifting house boats, and an array of birds nesting and singing from the undergrowth. Boat trips run six times a day from Thursday to Monday, when the Wharf is open (March-October) and tickets (35 for Trust member and non-members) are released every Thursday. What I mean by that is, you dont need a map to navigate your way and its not too long. It is important that we continue to promote these adverts as our local businesses need as much support as possible during these challenging times. A reasonably quiet route. Some of the finest hikes around Godalming take to the hills and seek out panoramic viewpoints. Find out how to book a boat trip, where to walk, and wildlife you can spot here. Location code 804811. If you have any questions about any of them please feel free to leave a comment on the post or send me an email. Wonersh was a centre of weaving for the medieval, famously dark-blue wool cloth that was exported from Surrey all over the world. Our information for canoeists gives you launch points and guidance for safe canoeing. The river flows slow and steady with clear water in many parts. This used to be used for farming. Traditionally, each section had a lock keeper, who was in charge of maintaining water levels in their section. The Wey Navigation and the Godalming Navigations were donated to the National Trust in 1964 and 1968, respectively. The Wey Navigations form a green corridor running through the Surrey countryside. 150 metres later, turn left into Halfway Lane (signed as a public bridleway). This travel guide provides information on how to walk or cycle along the River Wey Navigation Path. This time with lots of barges. Follow this road down to Wonersh Hollow and keep following the signs to Bramley, over the bridge. Thanks for reading my travel guide on how to hike the River Wey. Walking route along the river Wey and the Chantries in Shalford, Surrey Shalford, River Wey and the Chantry Woods Surrey A beautiful route that starts in Shalford on the village green and ventures down the River Wey joining the North Downs Way at the footbridge over the river. If you are interested in houseboats, the path runs past two marinas for you to admire a great number of the moored boats. I have to say though, this last bit of the river walk into Godalming did surprise me a little. There is a maximum of 12 people plus the skipper on Dapdune Belle, the bookable boat, 10 on Sir Richard Weston and eight on Seewey. Caution: Watch for bikers as they tend to disregard hikers / walkers. Good parts for dogs with just a few bits on leads. Good moderate-short walk past some lovely farm land and rivers. Some twisting fast roads with no pavements. Also there is a mini workout station that has some machines. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Godalming Angling Society own or have the fishing rights on approximately 8 miles of the River Wey, stretching from Eashing at the A3 crossing point, down-stream through Godalming, and on to just south of Guildford. Youll see plenty of unusual buildings along this length with Coxes Mill, the Grist Mill at Parvis Wharf and traditional rowing clubhouses backing onto the waterway. With a mix of under tree and open air walking. Really nice walk. You will cross over and under numerous bridges, all the while following the gentle flow of the river. Where does the river Wey start and finish? Youll discover some interesting industrial and military history along the way. Go through this into a pasture (which may be holding cattle) and follow the path directly ahead to reach a stile (just to the left of the white house). Please comment below, let me know what you think and follow me onTwitterandInstagramto find out more. The Wey Navigations is a two pawprint rated property. Along here there is a gate which says keep closed. And on this side, once past some more barges, some houses appeared again.and then, the bright orange Sainsburies sign. The interactive table below shows distances on the canal. Back then, the river wasnt the peaceful escape from the city which it is today. Explore some of the most remote parts of Surrey's Wey Navigation waterway, taking in historic buildings and locks, on a walk that can be done either one way or there and back. Hydons Ball is one of the countys highest points at 587 feet (179 m) and reveals stunning views across the Surrey Hills AONB. Toilets available at the Wharf, in the tearoom and at the far end of the site. Then you head to the hills. Well, it actually continues to be quite pretty. This route starts along the river, but then veers off to the east - rejoining the river just before Guildford. You can also buy a licence to use your own canoe/kayak/paddleboard here. Overall, not a bad walking / hiking trail, but no real challenge as the terrain is flat and there is little to observe. You can see in my photos, water was being let through the lock. If you like a big steep hill, this one is for you. Even the railway view is pretty cool up here. This takes you along the river as it runs through a greenthis is also where all the benches are. This place is the greatest. Happy hiking ;). We also offer scoop and tub ice cream and children's lunch boxes and high chairs are available. Keep walking along the river, and things go from tree cover, back to openness, as you pass some river side houses to reach Broadford Bridge. Walk From Guildford To Godalming Along The River Wey, 8 Best Surrey Hills Walks: Full Route Guides, Ultimate Seven Sisters Walk Guide: Seaford to Eastbourne, How to walk from Hastings to Rye England, 6 best walks from Brockenhurst in the New Forest, Chee Dale Stepping Stones Walk: Ultimate Guide, 57 Best Camper Van Accessories And Gadgets. Stage 2 of the North Downs Way. River ThamesRiver Wey / Mouth. Walsham length is a man-made section of the navigation running from Pyrford Lock to Send. You will also walk past this roller thing. Park at the station - it's easier. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Find information for boat users and licences here. This church has an elegant spire of timber framing with lead. Several species, including Daubentons and pipistrelle, roost in canal structures along the River Wey and forage for insects over the water, the towpath and along the adjoining corridor. Easy lovely walk. Now, just past the bridge, you will pass some steps to the right, leading up to a WWII pillbox. You will also get a view of what I think is St Catherines Chapel on a hill across the field. (Coming soon.). The Daubentons is slightly bigger and is often seen flying a few centimetres above the water, taking insects from close to the surface hence their common name, the water bat. It is a serene and peaceful river that passes through some classic English countryside and has an amazing 300 year old history of barge transport and canal infrastructure. 1) This walk starts from the centre of Guildford, behind the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre. But muddy today (February). One of the oldest river navigations in the country, River Wey Navigation was once a bustling waterway for merchants between Guildford and London. I decided to wait until I reached the end of the route in Guildford before getting lunch as that meant there was a reward to look forward to! Dogs on leads allowed at the Wharf, but not on boat trips. This is a great trail for kids and dogs are allowed if on a lease. You will be able to see the River Wey meandering in the valley bottom to your left. Follow the route of the last commercial barges on the Wey Navigations on this walk on the River Wey. Narrow attractive streets, lined with many ancient and historic buildings, lie alongside the River Wey. Being in Surrey, there are plenty of walks to do nearby in the Surrey Hills. Crew urgently trying to get their goods to the city, to catch the London tides. Its more something to do if you are already there. There are a lot of generous people out there scoring this walk above 2 stars Avoid, unless you you like the hum of traffic, busy country roads with no sidewalk, well trodden paths, people walking dogs and building sites, A fairly easy walk but quite nice although wear boots, Huge new housing estate being built just after the vets, Great walk along canal. Best Hiking in Norco, CA 92860 - Eastvale Trail, Pumpkin Rock Trail, Fresno Canyon Trail, Hidden Valley Wildlife Area, Santa Ana River Trail, Santa Ana River Trail - Hidden Valley Wildlife Reserve Entrance, Challen Hill Park, Prado Regional Park, LA Unknown, Doty Trust Park Unfortunately, there is no water currently in the river. We saw lots of bunnies today as well as some beautiful flowers (bees included) which is a great way to begin SPRING! Paddling along the River Wey Navigations is a great way to explore this historic waterway. It was also significantly louder along here. The Parish Church of St Peter & St Paul. Little Venice to Camden walk 2.5 miles. Located the "River Walk Park" in Eastvale, California, approximately 24 miles from home, This easy walking trail end about 0.8 miles from the starting point; and then you have the pleasure of reversing your course back to the starting point for a total of 1.6 miles for the . There is a bench here should you wish to pause and enjoy the bridge and river wildlife. The walk starts and finishes from Godalming rail station. If you did go up, make your way back down to continue the walk along the River Wey. With gorgeous upland heaths, sprawling commons, vibrant arboretums and tranquil trails along the River Wey and its navigation channels, theres more than enough to keep you exploring. Over the cute bridge, and back to the river on the other side, things became a bit more open again. Where does the River Wey start and finish? There are a few of these around on the Wey Navigation river bends. I had written the walk off as over, and now I just needed to get to the station. Godalming itself has many options for refreshments at the start or end of the walk. Easy access from many areas of the trail., Easy to walk with nice views of the rover and parks, bathroom along the way. The award-winning visitor centre at Dapdune Wharf in Guildford tells the story of the navigations and the people who lived and worked on them. Then come spring, they would lower the water level to get the field ready for farming again. On weekends, in the summer months, some parts of it can be quite busy. The River Wey Navigation opened in 1653. Time Traveller takes you upstream into Guildford town centre, looking at the history of the Wey Navigation and its impact on the development of Guildford. Now you dont actually have to walk up this bit, its just for fun. St Catherine's length runs from the once industrial hamlet of Broadford, curving around the sharp bends under St Catherine's Hill, giving you a glimpse of the golden sands that gave Guildford its name, to Millmead Lock in the centre of town. It is mostly common land and woodlands on both sides of the road. Just beyond an old brick pillbox, pass through the wide wooden gate and keep directly ahead on the concrete drive with horse paddocks still immediately on your left. This walk takes you along the River Arun the whole way to Arundel, where you will get a glimpse of the impressive Arundel Castle. Alternatively you can bike the route in 45 minutes to an hour. The Godalming Navigation, opened in 1764, extended the navigable waterway a further 4 miles to Godalming. Like I was heading towards a waterfall up ahead. Top 20 best walks and hikes around Godalming Map data OpenStreetMap contributors 1 St. Catherine's Lock - Crossing the River Wey Loop from Farncombe Intermediate 03:18 13.0 km 3.9 km/h 40 m 40 m Intermediate Hiking Tour. Find out how to keep safe throughout your visits. There are several boardwalks, some steps, a gate, some staggered barriers and one stile (which has access alongside for dogs). If you are looking for refreshments at this point, you will be able to see The Stag pub about 200 metres up the road to the right. Chris Howard inspecting the World War Two defences. River Wey There are many riverside strolls, riverside pubs and lazy boat trips to be enjoyed along the River Wey Navigations as well, which is looked after by the National Trust. We can sometimes accommodate pay-on-the-day trips, but this cannot be guaranteed. Nice and quiet. I went on a frosty Dec day and it was still bad. To do this, go over the next bridge and keep going until you reach the main road. This one is in London, and takes you along the Regents Canal. Some narrow roads on route - take care. Like fuzzy glass. Section 1 of the North Downs Way. Cross over the entrance drive for Westbrook Mills and keep ahead to continue on the tarmac footpath. On a clear sunny day, this is an absolute delight. Parking at Dapdune Wharf is free for members for up to 4 hours. Bats are by far the most numerous canal mammals. Btw Beware of snakes! If you are coming by car, the station does have a pay and display car park. I wouldnt travel to London just to do this walk. Nice little wander. Home to the Wey and Godalming Navigation, the first navigable river in the UK, taking a boat trip in Surrey is a great way to explore picturesque waterways and uncover new gems.