December 24, 2025
Festive Footsteps: Surrey’s Best Christmas Walks
If your idea of holiday cheer involves fresh air, frosty landscapes and working up an appetite for Christmas lunch, Surrey has some truly magical walks to explore. Whether it’s a family hike over the festive holidays, a brisk stroll on Christmas Day itself, or a peaceful wander with your four-legged friend, these routes combine spectacular scenery with the charm of the Surrey Hills.
Leith Hill
For an invigorating winter walk, Leith Hill is a classic. One of the highest points in South East England, it has been a favourite walking and picnic spot since the 19th century. The circular routes around the hill reward walkers with far-reaching views across the South Downs and, on a clear day, glimpses of the London skyline. With crisp winter air and atmospheric woodlands, it’s the perfect place to stretch your legs over the festive period.
The Hurtwood
The Hurtwood offers one of the most extensive networks of countryside paths in the Surrey Hills, with routes ranging from steep, challenging climbs to gentle woodland strolls. Many of the trails are suitable for adventurous families with off-road buggies, making this a great option for varied groups.
Walkers and dogs are always welcome, but be aware that the Hurtwood is a natural, unsurfaced landscape. Expect rough terrain, hidden obstacles, and plenty of mud in winter. If you prefer to roam freely, this is one of the few places where you can head ‘off-piste’ and explore at your leisure.
Holmbury Hill
Neighbouring The Hurtwood, Holmbury Hill offers a similarly broad mix of trail types, from steep ascents for fitter walkers to gentler paths ideal for a leisurely festive stroll. Families with off-road buggies can enjoy much of the area, and the views from the summit over the Weald and beyond are spectacular on a crisp winter day.
As with The Hurtwood, the landscape is rugged in places, so expect mud, roots and natural obstacles during the colder months. For those who enjoy a wilder countryside experience, Holmbury Hill is a wonderful option.
St Martha's
St Martha's Hill is a much-loved landmark in the Surrey Hills AONB and offers some of the most atmospheric winter walks in the region. Trails such as the Deer Trail, the Newlands Corner circuit, and routes linking to Shalford, Chilworth, and the historic Pilgrims Way provide options for all abilities.
The hilltop church of St Martha-on-the-Hill adds a truly magical touch, particularly beautiful in the low golden light of December.
Newlands Corner
A favourite viewpoint east of Guildford, Newlands Corner offers sweeping panoramas across the Surrey landscape. The 103-hectare nature reserve, part of the Albury Estate, is rich with woodland paths, chalk grassland and peaceful viewpoints perfect for a contemplative festive stroll. With routes ranging from short rambles to longer loops linking up with St Martha’s and the North Downs Way, it’s a versatile spot for winter walking.
The Chantries
Just south of Guildford, The Chantries is ideal for those seeking a shorter but scenic woodland walk close to town. Beginning near the Tourist Information Centre, your route takes you past the Tunsgate Archway, through the Castle Grounds and along Quarry Street before reaching the tranquil woodland trails towards Shalford.
It's a wonderful option for a peaceful Christmas Eve walk or a Boxing Day escape into nature, without straying too far from Guildford’s festive bustle.
Devil's Punch Bowl
The Devil's Punch Bowl is one of Surrey’s most dramatic natural landscapes: a vast, bowl-shaped valley steeped in legend and managed by the National Trust. Whether you choose a gentle rim-top walk or a more energetic descent into the valley, the scenery is breathtaking, particularly in the icy stillness of winter.
If you enjoy atmospheric views, sweeping heathland and a sense of untouched wilderness, this is the perfect festive outing.
Surrey's countryside truly shines during the festive season. From rolling hills and ancient woodlands to wide-open viewpoints and historic trails, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the UK to soak up winter’s magic. And if exploring these landscapes has you dreaming of making Surrey your home in 2026, do reach out to the experienced Grantley team - we’d be delighted to help you find your perfect place here.