7. I would suggest giving yourself at least 4 and a half hours, to amble this beautiful river path, to enjoy the countryside, and to stop for some water and snack breaks. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Our Waters - River Wey. About River Wey and Godalming Navigations and Dapdune Wharf Top features Dapdune Wharf Award-winning visitor centre telling the story of the navigations and the people who lived and worked on them. I really enjoy going for a walk in this park along the trail. Come and get involved with the friendly team. Unfortunately, there is no water currently in the river. Learn how your comment data is processed. Follow the A281 for a mile-and-a-half. After St Catherines Lock, the route stays open air, with fields to the side. Great path to walk (or even run) for the whole family! Walsham length is a man-made section of the navigation running from Pyrford Lock to Send. Great little walk of about two hours. Minus the bramble to my sons face which meant it all ended in tears. And bonus, you can walk almost the whole way to Goldalming station along the river. Good fitness required. Each length of the River Wey Navigation is different, passing historic locks, once-urban areas and rural plains. It was also at this point, when getting out my ticket, that I realised I had only bought a single, not a return ticket. 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. A reasonably quiet route. Turn right through the gates onto Platform 1. HP10 9TY. Although it's one of the shortest lengths, it's also one of the prettiest, with the Royal Horticultural Society Gardens at Wisley forming the backdrop to the natural river. On weekends, in the summer months, some parts of it can be quite busy. Nice to have varied scenery to walk through. A mix of path types along the way with a few stretches of the walk along quiet roads. 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). 7. Start and finished at Godalming train station. The Godalming Navigation was first to go, and by the early 1900s was derelict. Less money meant that the navigations couldnt be maintained. A mix of path types along the way with a few stretches of the walk along quiet roads. But once you are at the top, you get an amazing view across the trees to the hills in the distance. Fantastic trail. A few inclines but all manageable. Can you walk along the basingstoke canal? You pass through a number of locks where you might see a docking houseboat, not to mention weirs and old weir-houses. The forest path just after Peperharow rd is the worst part. There is a sloped access to the tea room. Boaters, please check river conditions here to see how the weathers looking today. 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. Godalming is a town with many famous sons and daughters, for example, artist, gardener and craftswoman, Gertrude Jekyll, and in 1881 became . Chris Howard inspecting the World War Two defences. Easy lovely walk. Godalming to Guildford along the Wey - Walkingworld If it is indeed not accessible when you are there, you need to leave the river for a bit. Things to do on the River Wey | Surrey | National Trust Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. If you are new to Walk Wild you can check out theAbout Mepage to learn about who I am and what made me want to be a travel writer. If you want to stay in the Guildford area, you can check out my post about the best walks from Guidlford. Or, you could do a combination and park your car at West Byfleet then walk the trail and take the train or a taxi back to your car again. (Coming soon.). Parking at Dapdune Wharf is free for members for up to 4 hours. Good moderate-short walk past some lovely farm land and rivers. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. There are several . We are always interested in your book donations - the Shed's success depends on generous donations, and we warmly welcome your pre-loved books. The River Wey Navigation opened in 1653. In fact, it becomes less trail, and more tidy path. This adds 4 miles to the walk. Here are some highlights to look out for as you explore the navigations. River Run | Virtual Run with Music | Treadmill Workout Scenery | River How does the braking system work in a car? Go straight on, crossing over the side road Westbrook Road, and then take the next left, Borough Road, passing the Church of St Peter and St Paul on your right. As a subscriber, you are shown 80% less display advertising when reading our articles. Coming to rest and then suddenly flocking again. It was closed when I was there. It is mostly common land and woodlands on both sides of the road. Do NOT turn right here, instead keep ahead for a few paces and then turn left onto the signed bridleway into the woodland. 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. It runs 15 miles from Guildford to the Thames at Weybridge. Surrey walk along the River Wey Navigation | Great British Life It is important that we continue to promote these adverts as our local businesses need as much support as possible during these challenging times. What restaurants are near River Walk Park? Commercial barges ceased in 1983. Then as you walk towards and under the railway bridge, it becomes more tree lined again. . Park at the station - it's easier. Now you dont actually have to walk up this bit, its just for fun. This one follows a river down to the English Channel. We're sorry, but we're unable to take dogs on the boat trips. The road bears to the right by the stagecoach garage into Leas Rd. You will be able to see the River Wey meandering in the valley bottom to your left. 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. Walking Miles: 5 (km: 8) Trail Papercourt Lock to Triggs Lock walk Walking Miles: 6 (km: 9.6) New Haw Lock to Pyrford Lock walk Walking Miles: 7 (km: 11.2) Get in touch Navigations Office and Dapdune Wharf, Wharf Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 4RR Anyway, keep going and you will soon reach Instead Lock. HIDDEN VALLEY NATURE CENTER | RivCoParks Some twisting fast roads with no pavements. 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). Although this is only a segment of the walk, at 19km it is still long and in my opinion takes in the best sections of the river. Places ton. 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! Restrooms are currently not open due to the Virus concerns. From memory, this bit got particularly muddy. 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. Enjoy a range of refreshments at the tea-room or browse the second-hand bookshop at Dapdune to discover your next favourite read. A circular walk from Guildford town centre taking in the beautiful centre of Surrey's historic county town along with a surprisingly peaceful stretch of the River Wey. (Clean up after your pet). There are two boat trips to choose from: the Time Traveller and the River Watch. Im not sure if this is a temporary thing, or if its permanently closed to the public. The River Wey is a tributary of the River Thames with the main section between Weybridge and Godalming being located in Surrey, UK. If you choose to cycle by the river, please be aware it is a potentially dangerous activity. Find out how were using traditional methods to replace lock gates on the waterway whilst using sustainable oak and recycled fittings as part of our annual maintenance programme. Once past a car park, keep going past the bridge and into the green. First time here and I was super impressed! It is a truly beautiful stretch of water to paddle, cycle or walk along. The walk is otherwise very pleasant. Yes no problem with that the surface is smooth. 97% of travelers recommend this experience. Explore more of Waverley: Browse the best Hikes in other regions. A lovely walk along the river. This is a great trail for kids and dogs are allowed if on a lease. One of the oldest river navigations in the country, River Wey Navigation was once a bustling waterway for merchants between Guildford and London. Editors' Code of Practice. Accessible toilets at both ends of the site. For the whole outing, including trains, sights and meals, allow at least 9 hours. If travel guides like this interest you, head over tomy blog pageto find out more! 6) From here, take the B2128 signposted to Bramley. You might also see a pink flower called Himalayan balsam, an invasive plant that is bashed to protect other plants in the area, including the orange balsam. This time with lots of barges. River Wey & Godalming Navigations Surrey | National Trust Access is available to Walkingworld subscribers or you can buy the walk individually for 1.95 once you are logged in. Where does the river Wey start and finish? For your safety use the grass verges where possible and swap between the two road edges to ensure you are visible to the traffic. Find out how you can volunteer and help our visitors enjoy the peaceful waterways just a few miles from London. Second, you are never that far from a road or railway. Due to the new round of Corona Virus regulations in California, forced to find a new hiking trail closer to home. Near Shalford the path comes to the junction of the Wey and Arun Canal where you can take the Wey South Path or climb Chinthurst Hill. The canal route runs from the Godalming Navigation of the River Wey at Shalford, near Guildford in Surrey, . The Towpath Trail is easily accessible. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Visitors can see where the huge Wey barges were built and climb aboard 'Reliance', one of three surviving barges. Keep bearing left, following the footpath by the A248 until you reach the common after about 200 yards. I was kicking myself that I ended up paying double the train fair that I needed to. Explore the River Wey by electric boat. Would do it again. 3) Turn left, cross over the bridge and follow the road around the corner past some cottages. You want to take the nearest one to the river, and finally, you can walk away from the road. Really nice walk. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. This walk follows public footpaths and bridleways which cross private and public land. It takes you from our version of Venice, past lots of barge boats, and alongside Regents park. The interactive table below shows distances on the canal. Please respect people's privacy, keep dogs under control and remember the Countryside Code. Walk this Wey - Walks on the River Wey towpath Non members: paybyphone - use the app or call 0330 060 4037. Discover the best National Trust places to take part in outdoor activities, from off-road cycle tracks to watersports and walking, all in beautiful surroundings. Here, youll find Broadford Bridge again, and so you can retrace your steps back to Guildford. 12 locks were build and ready for use in 1653. It runs 15 miles from Guildford to the Thames at Weybridge. Along here there is a gate which says keep closed. Godalming itself has many options for refreshments at the start or end of the walk. 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. From here you can see the ancient Lammas lands historic common land on the floodplain, where ownership was marked by dole stones. 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. Can you walk small dogs on a leash on the dirt area? Like for cars on roads. If you are dissatisfied with the response provided you can A circular walk from Godalming Station in Surrey, exploring the valley of the River Wey, west of the town including the medieval stone bridge in Eashing. Overall, not a bad walking / hiking trail, but no real challenge as the terrain is flat and there is little to observe. Luckily both are situated close to railway stations:West Byfleet(start) andGuildford(finish) both operateNational Rail trains and are on the same line. Well maintained, quite, restrooms clean. So you could take the train to West Byfleet, walk the trail, then take the train home from Guildford. Discover the different lengths of the River Wey Navigations on a boat trip or enjoy a leisurely walk along the towpath, looking out for wildlife at the waters edge. Section 1 of the North Downs Way. There are several boardwalks, some steps, a gate, some staggered barriers and one stile (which has access alongside for dogs). The walk starts and finishes from Godalming rail station. To continue the walk, turn left to join the signed public footpath running immediately alongside the River Wey on your left. At the starting point there is a large sign that states you must always wear a mask. Fantastic easy walk. River Wey Navigation Walking and Cycle Route River Thames Where does the river Wey start and finish? Good parts for dogs with just a few bits on leads. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Many of these weavers cottages are now highly desirable Surrey abodes. Mondays: 10am- 11am and 1pm- 2pm. Lots to see along the River Wey including the Phillips Memorial Park and Eashing bridges. The Basingstoke Canal Towpath Trail is 33 miles from Penny Bridge to the River Wey at Woodham. This travel guide provides information on how to walk or cycle along the River Wey Navigation Path. At the railway station, turn right and follow the railway line until you meet the Wey Navigation. 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. The section between Weybridge and Guildford came first. How to Walk the River Wey in Surrey, UK - Walk Wild Walk From Guildford To Godalming Along The River Wey Took us 2.5 hours with a 3 year old (and no pram). What attractions are near River Walk Park? For those wanting to walk long, on arriving in Godalming you can continue your walk alonside the River Wey on its tow path all the way to Guildford. If you are coming by car, the station does have a pay and display car park. Catteshall Lock is the first lock on the Godalming Navigation. Enjoy the free frisbee/disc Golf course, look the nature, there is a bunch of butterflies, squirrels, lizards. 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. And on this side, once past some more barges, some houses appeared again.and then, the bright orange Sainsburies sign. Amberley to Arundel Further south in the South Downs. The Parish Church of St Peter & St Paul. It follows unmade bridleways and paths for the most part, which can be very uneven underfoot and can also get very muddy at times so good boots are a must (or wellingtons with grips in the wet winter months). This route starts along the river, but then veers off to the east - rejoining the river just before Guildford.There are a few hills up and down, which might be tricky in wet weather so be prepared. The banks and waterway support a rich variety of wildlife, so whether you're on a walk or in a boat, keep your eyes peeled for the natural world around you. The banks of the river will be lined with people. The Godalming Navigation, opened in 1764, extended the navigable waterway a further 4 miles to Godalming. This walk takes you along the River Arun the whole way to Arundel, where you will get a glimpse of the impressive Arundel Castle. Book a boat trip here until 6 November. Some parts of this walk are on a windy road where cars go on, it felt a little stressful with kids. Caterpillar Class: Ages 1-3. What I mean by that is, you dont need a map to navigate your way and its not too long. Walk this Wey - Guildford to Godalming Follow Halfway Lane, a tarmac access lane, for some distance. As I said, its quite slippy and steep, so do this at your own risk. To keep this an easy ready I will bullet point some of its history. 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. There is a sign here pointing which way boats and river traffic should go. It was nice to get away from the very busy road. Paddling along the River Wey Navigations is a great way to explore this historic waterway. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 53 min to complete. There is an excellent pub in Eashing , half way round! However, one will observe individuals not wearing masks nor abiding by the social distancing requirements. Because of the direction the road, the noise is pretty loud until you pass by and under the next bridge. Its a popular river to play in. Find our top picks for water sports here. Back in the day, they were to help barge boats gets around the corners of the River. Eat indoors or use the outside seating by the river. Will it be sunny, cold or wet? 150 metres later, turn left into Halfway Lane (signed as a public bridleway). Boat trips in Surrey - Official tourism website for Surrey Cross the A281 and walk past a parade of interesting independent shops, including the very special David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation art studio and shop. Browse the large selection of second-hand books. It could be a good idea to stop in for a drink or some lunch if you are walking the route on a sunny weekend! Paddling the River Wey - The River Wey Where does the River Wey start and finish? If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Nice walking trail. Boat trips run from Dapdune Wharf from Thursday to Monday during our open season. The entire roundtrip hike / walk can be completed in less than an hour. This route takes you from Godalming at the train station to Guildford train station. contact IPSO here, 2001-2023. 93% of travelers recommend this experience. There are a number of pubs on the River Wey which you will walk past. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. This used to be used for farming. Walking route along the river Wey and the Chantries in - Routopia History Wanborough('bump-barrow') may be named after a Bronze Age burial site on the Hog's Back. Just beyond the bus stop, fork left onto the stone public footpath and follow this across the wooden footbridge over the River Wey. Cyclists are also permitted to use the towpath but must give way to pedestrians. Join or log in above if you are already a member. The job role evolved over time, and now is run by lengths men who manage water levels and vegetation along their length. Sir Richard Weston first cut an artificial channel in 1618, from where the Rowbarge Inn now stands, to the new lock at Stoke, and then three miles beyond across his land. A walk along the Basingstoke Canal. Rye to Camber Sands 6 miles. Fun Fact: During the winter months, they would raise the level of the River Wey to flood the field. The pipistrelle is the most common British species of bat and is also the smallest. Back then, the river wasnt the peaceful escape from the city which it is today. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. If youre lucky you can ask someone to drop you off at the start and pick you up four and a half hours later at the end (this is what I did, thanks to my dad who met me for lunch in Guildford as a compromise)! Copyright @ 2019 She walks in England - All Right Reserved. Go over the bridge, and pick up the path on the other side. Ticket charges apply to all people over one year old. At the end, join the tarmac lane which swings steadily left, passing between old cottages. Top 20 Hikes and Walks around Godalming | Komoot Noted a few birds, but no wildlife, except for a few weirdly dressed walkers. This walk is published through a collaboration with Surrey County Council. The site is largely rough grass, with mown paths, Picnic benches are available around the Wharf. It flies high and appears jerky as it dodges to catch insects in flight. You will walk away from the houses, and past another cute bridge, before reaching another concentration of houses. So, keep on the path as it winds you alongside the river, and past a graveyard and this other interesting building (of which I dont know what it is). Across to the right you will have a good view of Eashing Mill, which produced paper from 1658 to the 1870s and today houses offices. Crew urgently trying to get their goods to the city, to catch the London tides. There are a few of these around on the Wey Navigation river bends. People around must of the time appears to be safe place for kids. Walking Routes - includes a section on Surrey Guildford to Godalming (5 Miles) This walk covers the southern part of the River Wey from the busy centre of Guildford the path soon takes on a rural nature. Lovely scenery particularly on the second part of the walk near the River Wey. Here there are three trails. Data returned from the Piano 'meterActive/meterExpired' callback event. Turn left along the road, follow it around a sharp right-hand bend (with Eashing Farm on the left) and continue past the complex of barns on the right. It is a remnant from the dark days of World War Two, built as part of the last defences against Nazi Germany invading London. Tranquil waterway running for nearly 20 miles through the heart of Surrey. It was pretty cool actually, as before getting there, I could hear the water gushing. Nice walk but wear proper boots if you go during winter as some of the trail gets pretty muddy. Easy access from many areas of the trail., Easy to walk with nice views of the rover and parks, bathroom along the way. Beautiful park and trails that enhance the surrounding community. One of the fields may have livestock. Like fuzzy glass. IMPORTANT NOTE: The next 500 metres of route follows the edge of this road, which can be busy and has a number of bends. The Wey Navigation was built 100 years before the Canal Age. The trips take about 40 minutes, and leave at 11am, 11.50am, 12.40pm, 2pm, 2.50pm and 3.40pm. Treat yourself at the Lock keepers cafe - we serve barista style coffees with traditional round cakes and tray bakes. River Wey & Navigations : Welcome to this community resource providing This village was a hive of industry in the 1400s when the area developed a highly successful cloth-making industry. There are 12 locks on the stretch between Weybridge and Guildford. Caution: Watch for bikers as they tend to disregard hikers / walkers. Small plant area selling plants grown locally by volunteers. With less trade, meant less money. Near Shalford the path comes to the junction of the Wey and Arun Canal where you can take the Wey South Path or climb Chinthurst Hill where there is a tower. In the 1800s, when railways started to appear, trade moved away from the rivers. Here you can see the difference in the water levels. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Enjoy this trek and opportunity to dive back into nature and feel that connection once more. Walk along this, then at the road on the other side, go left, and you should see the Godalming Station car park ahead. Walking trails along the towpath and across countryside. We can sometimes accommodate pay-on-the-day trips, but this cannot be guaranteed. I was convinced I would get pooped on.luckily I didnt. New Haw length was once an urban length of the navigation but is now suburban, with only the noise of the M25 passing overhead at Byfleet. Cross over and turn left along the lane (taking care of traffic) and soon you will be able to join the right-hand pavement. It comes to an end in about .8 mile and then you just come back the same way which is just under 2 miles for the total walk. Cross this and continue a few paces forward to reach the road. How about a nice, flat six-miler? Also there is a mini workout station that has some machines. Commercial barges ceased in 1983. We also offer scoop and tub ice cream and children's lunch boxes and high chairs are available. Will be back and will start/end at The Stag in Eashing so that I can decide if I've earned a pint Nice but muddy - few trees down from recent storm across paths but accessible. 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. This is a car crossing bridge, so once its safe to do so, cross over to join the trail on the other side, as it leads you to a nice collection of barges. Can be muddy in places. It became known as the Wey Navigation. Is there confession in the Armenian Church? Im glad you asked. Street parking is adequate. Watts Gallery Loop to West Warren and East Warren, Munstead, Thorncombe Street and Unsted Circular. Two designated parking spaces can be found next to the Information hut. The whole of the route is suitable for walkers while cyclists can enjoy a nice waterside section in Guildford. frequent services, alight at the Cricket Ground on Woodbridge Road, Dapdune Wharf is on Wharf Road to rear of Surrey County Cricket Ground, off Woodbridge Road, A322 (only accessible from the northbound carriageway), Guildford, Navigations Office and Dapdune Wharf, Wharf Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 4RR. Even the railway view is pretty cool up here. Well, it actually continues to be quite pretty. 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. I really like this trail. 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. St. Catherines Lock Crossing the River Wey loop from Farncombe, Winkworth Arboretum Lovely view from a quiet spot loop from Godalming, Rope swing over the Wey loop from Godalming, St Peter's Church Lovely view from a quiet spot loop from Farncombe, Hambledon Church Hydon's Ball loop from Godalming, Rope swing over the Wey loop from Farncombe, Lovely view from a quiet spot Hilltop Kitchen loop from Farncombe, Crossing the River Wey St. Catherines Lock loop from Farncombe, St. Catherines Lock River Wey loop from Farncombe, Viewpoint to Chinthurst Hill St Martha's Hill loop from Farncombe, Bramley and Wonersh Station loop from Catteshall, Rope swing over the Wey loop from Busbridge, White Horse pub Lovely view from a quiet spot loop from Farncombe, Rope swing over the Wey St John the Baptist Church loop from Ockford Ridge.