Hike & Chill – 19km St. Marthas Hill, Shere and Golden Hour Lounge
22 August 2026 @ 11:00 am – 5:30 pm
Join us for a 12mile hike to St Martha’s Hill through Blackheath pine forest to Shere with a Golden Hour Lounge finish at the Chantries.
This route takes us up to one of the Surrey Hills’ finest viewpoints at St Martha’s Hill. From there, we’ll follow a stretch of the Pilgrims’ Way through open countryside before arriving in the charming village of Shere with an opportunity for refreshments.
Shere is one of Surrey’s most picturesque villages and a popular filming location, known for its beautiful 16th- and 17th-century buildings, quaint shops, cafés, and the idyllic stream.
After lunch, we’ll continue through rolling countryside and horse-filled fields before entering the colourful pine forests and heathland of Blackheath. Lush green ferns and vibrant purple heather provide a spectacular late-summer backdrop. We’ll then return via Chilworth’s farm yards and back towards the Chantries, completing a varied and quintessential Surrey Hills adventure.
For those who would like to extend the day, we’ll head to Golden Fords Café for one of their popular Golden Hour Lounge Evenings. Expect chilled live music, drinks and beautiful views as the sun goes down. We’re hoping this will be one of Back on Track’s standout social events of the summer! (Distance to car park 15min)
Meet / park: Chantries Carpark, Off, Echo Pit Road/Pilgrims Way, Guildford GU4 8AW What3words (free of charge) – Can get busy. Alternative parking at the end of Clifford Manor Road. – 4 min walk.(Walk to the dead end of the Clifford Manor Road, turn left and follow the footpath which takes you to the Chantries Car park)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, expect varied terrain and some undulating sections with one steeper climb at the end
Duration: 6-6.5h including 30min stay in Shere, plus time at Golden Ford Cafe (end of the walk- 15min from Carpark)
Bring: Own snacks/drink/money for the stop in Shere and money for drinks and/or food at Golden Fords, plus warmer layer for evening
Facilities: At Golden Ford Cafe at the end, half way in Shere
Note for dogs: Dogs are welcome on this hike, but there are some sections where they will need to be on leads and some stiles
Hiking Guide: Kate Barker