Shackleford, the North Downs Way and Puttenham

Richard Clayton

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This is an easy circular walk through farmland, woodland and the very attractive Puttenham Common, using the North Downs Way for a small part of the journey.

It features a variety of architecture in both Shackleford and Puttenham, including the Lutyens-designed barns of Cross Farm in Shackleford. You will probably see some of the prize-winning Aberdeen Angus herd at the latter – see Additional Info. You pass Puttenham Priory, a handsome Palladian villa built in 1762 by Thomas Parker.

The North Downs Way begins in Farnham and follows the line of the North Downs eastwards, close to Guildford, Dorking and Reigate to reach the Kent border, and thereafter it passes close to Rochester, crosses the River Medway and continues along the Downs to end at either Canterbury or Dover. Much of the trail follows the legendary Pilgrims Way, used by those making pilgrimages to pray at holy shrines.

Sustenance for walkers is (usually!) available at two pubs, one halfway and another at the end. See Additional Info.

England - South England - Surrey - North Downs

Features

Ancient Monument, Birds, Butterflies, Church, Great Views, Pub, Wildlife, Woodland

4/5/2014 - Jean Shepherd

I haven't done the walk but know the area as I often walk round here. I just wanted to comment on the Cyderhouse at Shackleford in the light of Patricia Daw's comment. I think it may have changed hands since her visit. I went for a meal there for the first time yesterday evening and I thought the food was wonderful!

8/5/2013 - Stephen Messenbird

A really lovely walk with almost perfect directions. Just be a bit careful when you reach the seat at the end of point 11 before to start point 12. You need to head off left and then down the hill. The instructions are a little unclear.

11/26/2012 - Susan Pyne

Attractive and varied walk - highly recommended. The directions are very clear - especially useful at Puttenham Common where the many paths could be confusing. I don't recommend taking the permissive path at waymark 16 because it is overgrown and slippery. For once the alternative short stretch of road is preferable.

3/27/2011 - Patricia Daw

27/3/11 Completed this walk today with friends in glorious Spring sunshine. A lovely walk with excellent directions. Stopped for a cider at The Good Intent and had Sunday lunch at The Cyder House: unfortunately we can't recommend the latter for their food on this experience.