Friday Hike – Hydons Ball and Octavia Hill (Godalming in Surrey) 11km

Join us on a wonderful, varied 11km circular walk though shady woodland and across open heathland from starting at Winkworth Arboretum near Godalming to Hydons Ball, with a stop over at the popular Merry Harriers Pub.
We head out through the lovely Busbridge Woods before heading onto Hydons Heath where we will learn more about the history and symbolism of this area.

Leading onto Hydons Ball, the high point of the walk you can now rest at the seat dedicated to Octavia Hill. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy stunning views and an evening sunsets. And you’ll discover why the ‘Ball’ had significance in the Napoleonic Wars.

Heading out westwards we will reach the hamlet of Hambledon where we will have a refreshment break before heading south to pick up the Greensand’s way which we will follow along a wooded ridge back towards our cars

Difficulty: Easy to moderate with one hill climb (with several stops)
Duration: 3-3.5h approx, plus time in pub
Bring: snacks, drink, money for pub
Facilities: Refreshments & Toilets: at the start / finish plus we will stop mid walk at the Merry Harriers Pub, Hambledon.
Well behaved dogs are always welcome.
Fee: £10

Meet : By the cafe outside Winkworth Arboretum.
Park : Starts and Finishes at: National Trust Car Park, Winkworth Arboretum, Hascombe Road. GU8 4AD. Paid Parking is available in the National Trust Car Park. (free for NT members, bring your membership card)

Please note that the walk does not include entry to Winkworth Arboretum which can be visited at extra cost or free for NT members.

Further event details and how to prepare for the walk:
Please ensure you bring water and snack for the walk. Please wear sturdy shoes; bring waterproofs if necessary. The distance and duration of the walk depends on the group’s pace and weather conditions. We aim for a medium walking pace with several stops, unless advertised in the event description.
For further details on how to prepare please read our Hiking Guide

Back on Track is committed to making the outdoors enjoyable and accessible for everyone. If this walk is too challenging for you, why not try one of our well-being walks. These are gently-paced walks for beginners or less confident walkers who want to build walking fitness. Equally, if you would like a hiking challenge, look up one of our Surrey 3 Peaks or day challenges on our events page.