Shalford Park

Shalford Park itself is a large open area with lots of football pitches and some toilets. 

St Catherine’s Hill

St Catherine’s Hill has been a sacred site for thousands of years.

In the 14th century a chapel was built here, which now lies in ruins.

Sacred Spring

At the bottom of St Catherine’s Hill by the River Wey is a sacred spring that was believed to cure sore eyes. 

River Wey Navigations 

The River Wey runs along Shalford Park. 

St Catherine’s Lock

If you cross the river and turn left, you can walk to St Catherine’s Lock.   

Finding the River and St Catherine’s Hill

As you leave Shalford Park car park, head to the line of trees on your right and follow the footpath that leads through the trees and on to the River Wey and St Catherine’s Hill. 

Nearest Town: Guildford 
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: GU4 8AA 

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic and a blanket.
Facilities: None.

How Long We Spent There: 1 hour
Buggies: Generally buggy friendly but some of the paths can be narrow.

Parking: Car park.
Cost of Parking: £4 per day. 

Wildlife You Might See: Ducks and other birds, butterflies and other insects.

Information Written: July 2022

Our visit to Shalford Park in Guildford (not including walking to St Catherine’s Hill and St Catherine’s Lock) is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

The Chilworth Gunpowder Mills

The Gunpowder Mills were established in 1626 by The East India Company and initially built by a dam near Blacksmith Lane.

By the 1700s there were 18 watermills using huge millstones to grind gunpowder, sulphur and charcoal.

These mills were an important manufacturer and supplier of gunpowder but were abandoned in 1920 and left to go to ruin.

Further details of the history of the Gunpowder Mills can be found on the Albury History Society’s website or pick up a leaflet at the entrance to the Gunpowder Mills.

The Ruins

We started the trail at Blacksmith Lane (see below details on parking) and saw the mill pond and West Lodge, where workers were checked in.

We then walked past the remains of the Corning House, which sadly exploded in 1901, killing 6 men.

Next along the trail are the ruins of an Incorporating Mill, with a fallen chimney and runner stones that were their sides to provide protection in the event of a blast.

There are also two bridges – a modern footbridge (that takes you to Vera’s Lane – see below notes on parking) and a swing bridge used by trams carrying coal to the mills from Chilworth and Albury railway stations.

At the end of the path we found the most complete Gunpowder Mill buildings. There are steps down into these ruins but we did not venture in very far as the floor was very uneven.

Paddling in the River Tillingbourne

The River Tillingbourne runs through this area. It is shallow with a log bridge and a large wooden snail sculpture.

It is perfect for a splash and a paddle. We waded a little way along the river and found a tree that has been made an island by the flowing water.

The Picnic Area

In a clearing in the centre of the woods we found a good sized picnic area.

The Paths

The paths around the Gunpowder Mills were generally earth and grass, which was dry when we visited but may well become muddy after rain.

We found the main paths to be generally wide and flat and we used our all terrain double buggy on them without any problems.

Keep to the Paths

We only walked on the paths because the leaflets and information boards warn that you enter this site at your own risk, you should not climb on the buildings and that there are hidden pits, water features and boggy areas around the grounds.

Chilworth Heritage Trail

If you fancy a longer walk then have a look at the Chilworth Heritage Trail, which starts and ends on Vera’s Path and leads past the ruins and ponds, up to St Martha’s Hill and then back down to the Gunpowder Mills.

Nearest Town: Chilworth, near Guildford
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: GU4 8NP or GU4 8NF

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic. 
Facilities: Picnic area.

How Long We Spent There: 2 hours
Buggies: We used an all terrain buggy but some of the paths can be narrow.

Parking: There are a couple of parking spaces on Blacksmith Lane (GU4 8NF) opposite the entrance to the Gunpowder Mills, which is next to the little bridge. You can also park on the roadside next to Chilworth C of E Infant School (Dorking Road – GU4 8NP) from where there is a footpath, called Vera’s Path, that leads you to the Gunpowder Mills (see photo).
Cost of Parking: Free

Wildlife You Might See: Frogs, toads, butterflies, insects and birds.

Information Written: August 2017
Information Checked: September 2023

Our visit to the Chilworth Gunpowder Mills in Chilworth, near Guildford, is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

River Tillingbourne 

When we visited the river was shallow, slow flowing and ideal for paddling, playing and splashing. 

Some children were catching little fish in nets by the bridge. 

Picnics!

There is plenty of space for a lazy picnic next to the river.  

The Tea Rooms

Opposite the green there is a friendly tea room and shop that sells snacks, sandwiches, drinks, nets and buckets.

Abinger Hammer Play Area

Nestled behind some trees on the side of the cricket pitch, is the Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground Play Area with equipment that includes:

• a wooden climbing frame with a slide, climbing walls, nets and a fireman’s pole
• a swing
• a toddler swing
• a seesaw
• a springer
• some balance beams
• a wooden house
• a tunnel
• a rope wall.

Together these last four items can be used as a mini obstacle course.

As the name would suggest, there is a cricket pitch too! 

Nearest Town: Abinger Hammer, Surrey Hills, near Dorking
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: RH5 6QP

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic and a blanket.
Facilities: None but opposite the green is a small shop that sells nets, coffees, snacks etc.

How Long We Spent There: 3 hours
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: There is a small car park with about 8 spaces next to the river on Felday Road. It can be very busy during warm weather. 
Cost of Parking: Free

Information Written: June 2017
Information Checked: August 2023

Our visit to Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground, the River Tillingbourne and the Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground Play Area in the Surrey Hills, near Dorking, is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

Abinger Hammer Play Area

The play area equipment includes:

• a wooden climbing frame with a slide, climbing walls, nets and a fireman’s pole
• a swing
• a toddler swing
• a seesaw
• a springer

• some balance beams
• a wooden house
• a tunnel
• a rope wall.

Together these last four items can be used as a mini obstacle course.

Nearest Town: Abinger Hammer, Surrey Hills, near Dorking
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: RH5 6QP

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic and a blanket.
Facilities: None but opposite the green is a tea room and shop that sells nets, coffees, sandwiches, snacks etc. 

How Long We Spent There: 3 hours
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: Parking is tricky. There is a small car park with about 8 spaces on Felday Road. It can be very busy during warm weather. 
Cost of Parking: Free

Information Written: June 2017
Information Checked: August 2023

Our visit to Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground, the River Tillingbourne and the Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground Play Area in the Surrey Hills, near Dorking, is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

Shere Recreation Ground

The play equipment includes:

• swings (these were missing)
• toddler swings 
• two slides
• a multiplay with puzzle boards
• two springers 
• a spinning basket
• a roller
• seats.

Next to the play area is a large sports field with:

• tennis courts
• a skate ramp 
• a marked fitness track
• a multi-gym (for those aged 14 and over). 

Nearest Town: Shere, near Guildford
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: GU5 9JF

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: There are nearby pubs and cafes or bring a picnic.
Facilities: None.

How Long We Spent There: 1 hour
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: There is a public car park on London Lane (a small turning off Upper Street – GU5 9JF is the closest postcode I could find), which is next to the play area and we parked easily.
Cost of Parking: None

Information Written: August 2020

Our visit to Shere Recreation Ground in Shere, near Guildford, is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

The Woods

Exploring the network of narrow tracks through the woods is one of the special things about visiting Broadmoor. Many are surrounded by towering bracken, which is taller than little children and gives that jungle feel. 

There is a small natural play area with trees to climb and logs to play on.

You can also build dens here. 

Steep Hill!

The woods are on the side of a steep hill so be careful going up and down the paths – some are much steeper than others. 

Please see below for full details.

The Tillingbourne Waterfall

For us, the most special thing about these woods is that you can walk to a waterfall – an almost secret waterfall that many people have never heard of. 

This is the Tillingbourne Waterfall, which is on private land (so you can’t actually reach or paddle in it) but is visible from a public footpath.

Finding the falls is half the adventure. It isn’t signposted so you have to find your own way down the hill (see below for details). 

On the way to the falls there is also a little stream you can paddle in. 

Finding the Waterfall

To get your bearings, stand in the car park with your back to the road. The Tillingbourne Waterfall is basically straight ahead and to the left. 

The problem you have is that ‘straight ahead’ means straight down a steep hill. We have found two routes down. The first is a gentle route and the second is a steep route straight down the hill.

The Gentle Route

• Leave the car park by the path to the right that heads away from the road. 

• Follow this path until you can turn right.

• Turn right and follow this path to the natural play area.

• Keep walking past this play area and you will start to go down the hill. At the bottom of the hill, turn left onto a flat, wide path.

• This path will take you to the hamlet of Broadmoor. 

The Steep Route

If you choose this path, please be careful – it is steep and uneven with tree roots.  

• Leave the car park by the path to the right that heads away from the road. Follow it until you can turn left.

• Turn left and follow this path until you can turn right.

• This right hand turning takes you straight down the hill. 

• This path leads you out of the woods and to the back of some houses. Keep these houses on your right for a short way and then take the first turning on the right, which takes you between the houses and then to the main road.

• This is the hamlet of Broadmoor.

From Broadmoor Hamlet

• Once you arrive in Broadmoor, things become much easier.

• Keeping the houses on your left, follow the road until you come to a small fork.

• Take the small road on the right, which will take you all the way to the Tillingbourne Falls.

Nearest Town: Dorking, Surrey Hills
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: RH5 6JY

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a blanket and a picnic.
Facilities: None

How Long We Spent There: 2 hours
Buggies: The paths on the hill are steep in places, can be narrow and covered in tree roots. The paths from Broadmoor to Tillingbourne Waterfall are flat and surfaced. 

Parking: Car park. 
Cost of Parking: Free.

Wildlife You Might See: Birds, butterflies and other insects.

Information Written: September 2020

Our visit to Broadmoor and the Tillingbourne Waterfall in the Surrey Hills, near Dorking, is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

Friday Street Stream

This is a little stream that flows under a little footbridge and across a little road. It’s a peaceful place to splash around. 

The Scarecrow Family

When you manage to tear yourselves away from the stream, keep walking down the lane until you come to a fork in the road. If you take the left hand path you come to a garden with a family of scarecrows…

…and a poem. My children love this garden!

Friday Street Stream Bridge

A little further down this path is Friday Street Stream Bridge, which seems to act as a dam – the stream pools on one side and pours out of the other.  

The Mill Pond 

At the centre of Friday Street is a mill pond that was originally part of a 17th century mill. 

This is another paddling spot but it can be very muddy. 

The Woods 

On the hill behind Mill Pond are woods you can explore, including Severell’s Copse, which is a short walk up the hill. 

There is also woodland next to the car park.

Tillingbourne Waterfall

Near to Friday Street there is a surprise – the almost secret Tillingbourne Waterfall. This is a waterfall that is on private land (so you can’t actually reach or paddle in it) but is visible from a public footpath. 

You can walk to the waterfall from Friday Street but it is much easier to reach from Broadmoor, especially for little legs. 

Have a look at our visit to Broadmoor and the Tillingbourne Waterfall for further details.

Finding Your Way From the Car Park

To find Mill Pond, stand in the car park facing the road. On your right by the road is a path and some steps down to Mill Pond.  

Finding Your Way From Mill Pond 

At the Mill Pond crossroads you have three choices:

• Turn left across Friday Street and walk down the little road next to the postbox. This road will take you to Friday Street Stream, the scarecrow family and Friday Street Stream Bridge.

• Go straight on, over the bridge and then turn right to spend time at the pond. This is also the way we walk to Broadmoor Car Park. 

• Turn right and follow the little road next to Mill Pond. This will take you to the Stephen Langton pub (if it is still open) and then up into the woods next to the car park.

Nearest Town: Dorking
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: RH5 6JR

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a blanket and a picnic or try the Stephen Langton pub (this may now be closed).
Facilities: None

How Long We Spent There: 2 hours
Buggies: There are steps down to Mill Pond from the car park. Once at Mill Pond, Friday Street is pretty flat. To go towards Tillingbourne Falls or Broadmoor you have to go up a fairly steep hill covered in tree roots. 

Parking: Car park with lots of spaces but can be busy. 
Cost of Parking: Free.

Wildlife You Might See: Birds, butterflies and other insects.

Information Written: September 2020

Our visit to Friday Street near Dorking is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

Millenium Playground

The play equipment includes:

• swings
• toddler swings
• a multiplay with a slide, cargo nets and ladders
• a balance course
• two springers 
• a rope swing 
• a basket swing 
• a zip wire 
• seats.

Next to the play area is a large sports field with a football pitch. 

Nearest Town: Gomshall, Near Guildford
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: GU5 9LJ

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: There are nearby pubs or bring a picnic.
Facilities: None.

How Long We Spent There: 1 hour
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: I couldn’t find a public car park nearby. The one next to the playground is for the Scout hut only.
Cost of Parking: None

Information Written: August 2020

Our visit to Millenium Playground in Gomshall near Guildford is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.