North Downs Way Walk Spanning 153 miles from Farnham to Dover, the iconic North Downs Way walk promises a blend of history, diverse landscapes and quaint English villages. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or an occasional stroller, a walk along the North Downs Way offers something for everyone. Below we’ve provided an overview of the entire route as well as tailored guides to each of the individual sections. Start planning your walk today and we’ll make sure you stay on the right path.
Route Sections
Walking from Farnham to Guildford marks the first section of the North Downs Way and encompasses a total distance of 12 miles. The section begins in the picturesque town of Farnham, Surrey, just off the side of the A31. To get to the starting point, head downhill from the station and turn right at the crossroads. This is where you’ll find the official trail start point marked by a large sign and notice board.
After crossing Shalford Park and reaching the metal North Downs Way sign, you’ll want to cross the road and continue on down Pilgrim’s Trail. The wooden trail sign has been partly snapped off so this isn’t the most clear. Keep heading down Pilgrim’s trail before taking a slight right into Chantry Wood.
The third section of the North Downs Way charts a course from Gomshall to Westhumble. If you’re travelling by train then you’ll be able to reach the start by turning left from Gomshall Station before shortly turning left again and walking up Beggars Lane. The North Downs Way trail eventually intersects with Beggars Lane although be warned that this walk to the start involves a prolonged period of uphill walking that can be especially challenging right at the start.
The fourth section of the North Downs Way, walking from Westhumble to Merstham, is a particularly challenging section of the route. Spanning 10 miles across Box Hill and Reigate Hill, this is the perfect section for fans of steep inclines and frequently feeling out of breath. That being said, the views from this section are some of the most rewarding across the entire trail.
The route picks off right next to Merstham Cricket Club before heading towards Quality Street. When following the North Downs Way you’ll actually curve around the small village of Merstham as you take an immediate left here away from the village centre. You then briefly walk down Quality Street before turn diagonally right down a covered dirt path. This leads to a footbridge that crosses the busy M25 motorway.
The next section of the North Downs Way begins just outside of Oxted and finishes right next to Otford train station. The official start point is designated by a metal sign in the top left of a field just across from the m25 and to the right of Limpsfield Lodge Farm. From the start point the route briefly follows alongside the Vanguard Way as you walk along the top of this field, keeping the forest to your left-hand side. At the midpoint of the field, you’ll notice a plaque marking where both routes cross the Greenwich Meridian Line.
