🌿 The Heart of the Surrey Hills
If you love walks around Hindhead, fresh air, and great food, this is your ideal escape. Set within the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Hindhead is surrounded by heather-clad hills, pine woods, and breathtaking views.
After your adventure, there’s no better place to relax than The Hound & Heather — your dog-friendly country pub serving proper pub food done right. From comforting Sunday roasts to local ales, it’s the perfect end to a day exploring the Punch Bowl.
1. The Devil’s Punch Bowl Circular Walk
One of the most iconic Hindhead walks, the Devil’s Punch Bowl Circular is a 4.5-mile loop through dramatic heathland and forest. Expect sweeping views, rare wildlife, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.
Start from the National Trust Devil’s Punch Bowl car park (GU26 6AB), follow the well-marked path around the rim, and make sure to stop at Gibbet Hill, Surrey’s second-highest point.
🐾 Dog-friendly: Yes — ideal for energetic pups.
🍽 After your walk: Head to The Hound & Heather for a hot roast, seasonal pie, or a pint of local ale by the fire. Try our Ramblers Deal — soup, sandwich, and a hot drink for just £16.
2. Gibbet Hill & Sailor’s Stone Trail
If you’re after a shorter route, this 2-mile Hindhead walk is full of charm and history. You’ll pass Sailor’s Stone, which marks a mysterious 18th-century tale, before reaching Gibbet Hill for stunning views across the valley.
Then, take a moment to breathe in the pine-scented air and watch the sunlight dance across the hills.
☕ Local tip: After your walk, head to The Hound & Heather for coffee and homemade cake. We’re open from 8am — perfect for a mid-morning treat.
3. Punch Bowl to Thursley Loop
Looking for something longer? The Punch Bowl to Thursley Loop is a 7-mile route linking Hindhead Commons with Thursley National Nature Reserve. It’s peaceful, full of wildlife, and ideal if you want to explore beyond the main trail.
In summer, the wetlands sparkle with dragonflies and butterflies. In winter, the stillness is almost meditative.
🍴 Refuel: Back at The Hound & Heather, reward yourself with our Sunday roast — crisp potatoes, tender meat, and homemade Yorkshire pudding.
4. Golden Valley Woodland Trail (Family Favourite)
For families or gentle walkers, the Golden Valley Trail near Grayshott is ideal. This 3-mile walk follows shaded woodland paths and bubbling brooks. Children love spotting the carved wooden animals hidden among the trees.
In autumn, the forest glows in shades of gold and amber — it’s truly magical.
🥪 Family tip: After your stroll, join us at The Hound & Heather for our Ramblers Deal — soup, sandwich, and a hot drink for just £16. It’s a local favourite after a long walk.
5. The Hidden Tunnel Path (Local Secret)
Few people know this route — a quiet, shady woodland path connecting Hindhead with Haslemere. You’ll find the entrance near the old A3 Tunnel viewpoint. The trail passes ferns, streams, and peaceful glades, perfect for reflective walks or leisurely strolls with your dog.
🐕 Dog-friendly: Shaded and calm — perfect for summer walks.
🍺 Reward yourself: Back at The Hound & Heather, unwind with a pint of Surrey Hills ale or our famous chicken & leek pie.
Where to Eat After Your Walk
At The Hound & Heather, we serve the kind of food you crave after a countryside adventure. From our Cauliflower Kiev to our H&H Burger and indulgent Sticky Toffee Pudding, everything is cooked with care and locally sourced where possible.
Whether you’re here for a Sunday roast, a lazy lunch, or a fireside pint, you’ll always find a warm welcome.
👉 Book a Table Now | View Our Menu | What’s On
🚶 Plan Your Day in Hindhead
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Parking: National Trust car park, GU26 6AB or The Hound & Heather car park, London Road, GU26 6AG
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Difficulty: Easy to moderate routes available
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Best times: Spring and autumn for colour, winter for views
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Nearby attractions: Hindhead Commons, Grayshott village, Thursley Reserve
📍 The Hound & Heather, London Road, Hindhead, Surrey GU26 6AG
☎️ 01428 555400 | ✉️ info@houndandheather.co.uk
🐾 Dog-friendly | Walker-welcoming | Proper pub food, done right
Final Thought
The Surrey Hills have a way of slowing time — rustling leaves, open skies, and friendly faces. Whether you’re local or just visiting, the walks around Hindhead offer the perfect blend of beauty, history, and fresh air.
So lace up your boots, grab the lead, and discover it for yourself.
The Hound & Heather will be waiting when you’re ready for that well-earned pint.