Pewley Down
Rolling grassland nature reserve offering stunning panoramic views of Guildford and the surrounding countryside, saved by the community.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for wildflowers & sunshine
Pewley Down
Best Time
Best for wildflowers & sunshine
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Rolling grassland nature reserve offering stunning panoramic views of Guildford and the surrounding countryside, saved by the community.
"Absolutely stunning place. Especially, ones you get on the top of the hill it's just breathtaking views."
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
The terrain is rolling grassland, so wear sturdy shoes for a pleasant walk. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Pack Snacks & Drinks
Limited facilities on the down; bring your own refreshments for a perfect picnic. :sandwich:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Guildford Views
Top of the Down
Breathtaking vistas overlooking Guildford town and its unique cathedral. A perfect spot to recharge.
The Preservation Monument
Summit
A modern monument celebrating the community's effort to save this scenic grassland from development.
Chantry Wood Connection
Southern Edge
Connects to Chantry Wood for a longer, scenic circular walk, offering diverse woodland and downland scenery.
Horses Grazing
Grasslands
Often, you can spot horses grazing peacefully on the downs, adding to the idyllic countryside charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Views, Pack Accordingly
Community-Saved Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
The terrain is rolling grassland, so wear sturdy shoes for a pleasant walk. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Pack Snacks & Drinks
Limited facilities on the down; bring your own refreshments for a perfect picnic. :sandwich:
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, especially over Guildford. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Walks
A great spot for dog walkers, but keep them under control around livestock. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential
The terrain is rolling grassland, so wear sturdy shoes for a pleasant walk. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Pack Snacks & Drinks
Limited facilities on the down; bring your own refreshments for a perfect picnic. :sandwich:
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, especially over Guildford. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Walks
A great spot for dog walkers, but keep them under control around livestock. :dog:
🚗 Parking Nearby
Free parking is available at St Martha's Hill, a short walk away, or near the town.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Pewley Down's stunning panoramic views of Guildford and the surrounding countryside, calling it a beautiful and serene place to escape. Many appreciate its accessibility from town and its role as a community-saved green space. Some find the views slightly marred by modern housing developments, but overall, it's highly recommended for relaxation and hiking.
"Nicely kept area of scenic countryside that narrowly escaped housing development before being saved by the community. A modern monument to its preservation stands at the top of the down.
The location, right on the edge of Guildford, makes it easily accessible from town. It's also reasonably close to St Martha's Hill, where free parking is available. Heading to Pewley Down from here and back through Chantry Wood makes for a very pleasant circular walk.
There are quite a few benches around the top of the down, overlooking lovely views and providing the ideal place for a short rest stop. On the north side, there are far reaching views over Guildford and its unusual cathedral."
Andrew Thomas
"Absolutely stunning place. Especially, ones you get on the top of the hill it's just breathtaking views. Not far from London. Great, getaway to recharge and relax. Lovely people on the trails. Love it and recommended. Perfect to relax, recharge, hike. To add more, to this beautiful view, also you will find horses to watch - stunning."
Anna K
"Nice to escape the town, even though it's a nice town. Some attractive ( and expensive ) properties enroute up to the downs but worth the walk. Views over to the right coming out of town are quintessential English countryside. Sadly, for me anyway, the views to the left once u head through the hedgerows to look back toward town and the nature reserve, are somewhat spoilt by an unacceptable housing development of identical town houses stretching in a long line away from the town. Personally I think the planning department in allowing this are not lovers of nature or country walks or even interesting English architecture. It's an eyesore. And yes, I do understand a need for housing, but I would not have allowed this to blight the area. Hence not a five stars for me."
Derek Small
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pewley Down is easily accessible from Guildford town centre. You can walk up through the town, enjoying views of attractive properties en route, or take a bus. Many visitors opt for a pleasant circular walk starting from St Martha's Hill, which has free parking and is reasonably close.
While there isn't direct parking on Pewley Down itself, free parking is available at St Martha's Hill, which is a short walk away. You can also find parking in Guildford town centre and walk up.
Yes, cycling is a popular way to explore Pewley Down and the surrounding areas. There are footpaths and bridleways suitable for cycling, offering scenic routes.
Pewley Down is accessible via public transport to Guildford town centre. From there, it's a walk up to the downs. Check local bus routes for options that get you closest to the base of the hills.
Many visitors enjoy combining Pewley Down with Chantry Wood for a longer circular walk. You can also connect to St Martha's Hill for a more extensive exploration of the Surrey Hills.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Pewley Down is a public nature reserve and entry is free for everyone. You can visit anytime without needing to purchase a ticket.
Pewley Down is open to the public year-round, from dawn till dusk. There are no set opening or closing times.
There are no entrance fees to access Pewley Down. It's a freely accessible public space for recreation and enjoying nature.
Pewley Down is run by the local government and is a community-saved area, meaning it's managed for public enjoyment and conservation.
While there are no official closing times, it's generally recommended to visit Pewley Down during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the views.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You'll be treated to stunning panoramic views of Guildford town, including its distinctive cathedral, and the rolling Surrey countryside. The north side offers views over the town, while other areas provide expansive rural vistas.
Pewley Down is a natural reserve with limited facilities. There are no public toilets or cafes directly on the downs. It's advisable to bring your own snacks and drinks.
Yes, Pewley Down is great for families. The open grasslands are good for children to explore, and the gentle slopes are manageable. Just ensure they are supervised.
Dogs are welcome at Pewley Down and it's a popular spot for dog walkers. Please ensure your dog is under control, especially around any grazing animals.
The terrain consists of rolling grasslands with some footpaths. It's generally easy to walk on, but can be uneven in places. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful light for landscape photography. Clear days provide the best panoramic views of Guildford. 
Focus on the sweeping views of Guildford, the rolling hills, wildflowers in spring/summer, and the grazing horses. The preservation monument also makes for an interesting shot.
There are no specific restrictions on personal photography at Pewley Down. However, commercial photography may require permission.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife like horses. A tripod can help with low-light conditions. :iphone:
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations and airspace restrictions. It's advisable to check with local authorities before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a frisbee or ball for extra fun. While there are no playgrounds directly on the down, the natural environment itself is the playground. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are minimal. The proximity to Guildford town also means you can easily combine a visit with other family-friendly activities.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the open downland habitat, which supports various flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for wildflowers in the spring and summer months. The peaceful atmosphere makes it ideal for mindfulness and enjoying the natural beauty.
📸 Photographers
+1Beyond the townscapes, the natural beauty of the downs, including grazing horses and seasonal wildflowers, provides diverse subjects. A wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing the expansive vistas, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story of Pewley Down's Preservation
This community-led initiative highlights the value placed on natural landscapes in the Guildford area. The ongoing care and upkeep ensure that Pewley Down remains a beautiful and accessible place for everyone to enjoy, offering a peaceful escape from urban life while still being on the edge of town.
Visitors can appreciate the tranquility and the stunning views, knowing that they are experiencing a place that was fought for and protected by the people who live nearby. It's a perfect example of how local communities can make a significant impact on preserving their environment for future generations.
Walking and Hiking Routes
For those looking for a longer challenge, Pewley Down can be incorporated into a larger hike that includes nearby landmarks like St Martha's Hill and Newlands Corner. These extended routes allow you to explore more of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Instagram reels often showcase guided walks covering multiple peaks, including Pewley Down, highlighting the extensive network of trails.
When planning your walk, remember that the terrain is primarily rolling grassland, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. The paths are generally well-trodden, but can be muddy after rain. Always check the weather forecast before heading out, especially if planning a longer trek.
Local Flavors and Nearby Cafes
One notable mention is The Boring Burger, which, despite its name, offers highly-rated smash burgers and is located in the Pews Bar & Courtyard. This spot is a contender for some of the best burgers in the UK, offering a delicious post-walk treat.
For a unique experience, consider exploring the area around Little Guildford, which is noted for its charming cafes and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed brunch or coffee break after your visit to the downs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit