Frensham Great Pond Beach
Frensham Great Pond Beach
Highlight • Lake
Frensham Great Pond Beach
Hiking
5.0
(38)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
November 9, 2023
Hiking
November 7, 2023
Hiking
November 2, 2025
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Frensham Great Pond Beach
4.8
(11)
40
hikers
Start your adventure from Frensham Great Pond on this moderate 9.5 miles (15.2 km) hiking loop. You will experience diverse landscapes, from the tranquil waters of Frensham Little Pond framed by woodlands to the quiet solitude of pine forests. The route then opens up to expansive heathlands, offering a sense of wildness. Expect to gain about 405 feet (124 metres) in elevation over approximately 3 hours and 59 minutes of walking. The varied terrain keeps the hike engaging, providing a rewarding experience for those with a good level of fitness.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is generally accessible. The path features a mix of unpaved sections, natural tracks, and some paved areas. The sandy ash surface means paths tend to stay dry and solid even after rainfall, minimizing mud. However, some bridleways can become muddy in winter or soft sand in summer, so consider your footwear choices. There are no permits or fees required for this hike.
This trail offers remarkable views from Kettlebury Hill, overlooking Hankley Common and Thursley Nature Reserve, providing vistas unlike most other viewpoints in Surrey. As you explore the open heathland and dense woodlands, keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer and various waterfowl. The diverse ecosystems make this loop a notable journey through the natural beauty of the Surrey Hills.
5.0
(8)
25
hikers
Embark on a challenging hike through the diverse landscapes of Thursley Common, Hankley Common, and the Frensham Ponds loop from Elstead. This difficult 15.7-mile (25.2 km) route, with an elevation gain of 579 feet (176 metres), typically takes around 6 hours and 34 minutes to complete. You will traverse expansive sandy heathland, serene ponds, and varied woodlands, encountering a mix of packed earth, loose gravel, and significant sandy sections that can make for tougher going. From Kettlebury Hill, you can enjoy far-reaching views across Hankley Common and Thursley Nature Reserve, offering a sense of being transported to a different place entirely.
While the sandy paths help keep the route less muddy after rain, be aware that some bridleway sections might still be muddy during winter months. The trail includes boardwalks on Thursley Common, though some are currently being rebuilt. Given the varied terrain, including some short, steep sections with tree roots and rocks, good fitness levels are advisable for this extensive loop. The area's luminosity and prevalence of evergreen trees make it a beautiful destination for hiking in any season.
This trail is notable for its rich biodiversity, particularly within Thursley Common, a National Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Keep an eye out for over 20 species of dragonfly and damselfly, as well as rare birds like nightjar and Dartford warbler, and reptiles such as the sand lizard. On Hankley Common, you can also discover the
5.0
(3)
15
hikers
19.8km
05:18
230m
230m
Hike 12.3 miles (19.8 km) through diverse heathlands, woodlands, and sandy tracks around Frensham Ponds and Bourne Wood near Farnham.
Details
Informations
Elevation 60 m
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Sunday 12 July
29°C
13°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h
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