Farnham Heathland and Forest - Surrey (16 miles circular)
7 people attending
8 places left
Join me for a walk exploring the fascinating forests, heathland and filming locations (!) near Farnham.
** Be aware that this walk is on the long side (16miles) for an ODL walk this time of year and given the still shortish days we'll need to set a good pace otherwise we'll end up in the dark - and will also help us stay warm ! Group has been kept small so we can keep a good pace **
We kick off with a stroll through the 'burbs of Farnham out towards Bourne Wood - the site of many a film shoot including Gladiator, Thor and several Harry Potters. For the film buffs check out the list here https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bourne_Wood
From Bourne Wood we head to Frensham ponds, possibly a bit too cold this time of year for a dip, and then on to Hankley Common - a stand-in for Bond's childhood home in Skyfall. Hankley Common offers some fine sweeping lowland heath views - quite unique for southern England. It's also an MOD training ground - so no picking up shiny things ....
Turning back towards Farnham we pass through the pretty village of Tilford, a possible pub stop depending on pace, and then follow a branch of the River Wey back into town.
Post walk it's likely we'll venture into a local pub to warm up and maybe enjoy a post walk recovery beverage.
All photos by me.
What to bring
Water: bring at least a litre, preferably two. It's a longish day and no shops along the way.
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Rucksack: or any other bag
Footwear: hiking boots and nice warm socks :) It's likely to be muddy
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: ideally not jeans which become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Waterproof jacket: breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry. Also keeps the wind out this time of year.
Hat or cap or beanie: stay warm !
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Food & drink
Bring a packed lunch and plenty of water.