Top 20 Natural Monuments around Puttenham
Best natural monuments around Puttenham include Puttenham Common, an extensive area within the Surrey Hills National Landscape and Wealden Heaths National Nature Reserve. This region features a diverse landscape of woodland, rolling hills, wetlands, and heathland, particularly noted for its vibrant heather. The area's acidic soils support unique flora and provide habitats for various wildlife, including ground-nesting birds and reptiles. Historical elements like the Iron Age Hillbury Hill Fort also add to the natural landscape's significance.
Best natural monuments around…
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Guildford Castle Grounds
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The 11th-century castle sits atop a hill in Guildford, providing some picturesque views across …
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Hydon's Ball Summit
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Blackheath Common and the War Memorial
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Devil's Punch Bowl Picnic Site
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Top of Highcombe Copse
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Tips from the Community
Good viewpoint. Easy access via Octavia Hill trail
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Hydon's Ball is a prominent hilltop situated in the Surrey Hills AONB not too far from Godalming. The hilltop is one of the top 10 highest points in Surrey and is marked by a trig point. The hill is home to a lovely variety of heathland and woodland, and there are some lovey views on offer of the surrounding countryside from the top. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife whilst you're here, including butterflies and birds of prey.
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The excellent Guildford Castle Grounds are unique, interesting and well worth visiting during a hiking, cycling or running tour. The Grounds are famous for their excellent flower displays in the valley that surrounds the Castle Keep. Other free attractions include the remains of Castle walls, passageways, a Victorian bandstand (where music concerts take place), a delightful 17th century bowling green bordered on one side by specimen beech trees, an impressive war memorial and a life-size statue of Alice Through the Looking Glass. Guildford Castle Grounds has a fascinating history. The Castle is thought to have been built either by William the Conqueror or by one of his barons soon after the Norman invasion of England in 1066. The Castle has been used as a Royal Palace, a prison and as a private residence. The grounds at the Castle were opened as public gardens in 1888 to mark the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria in 1887. You might wish to explore the Guildford Castle Grounds or to simply admire its scenery during a stop for a snack and a drink. However, should you have time, you may also wish to climb the Castle Great Tower via its spiral staircase. This will give a panoramic view of Guildford and its beautiful surrounding countryside, and provide an appreciation of why the Castle’s location is strategically good.
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Make sure to stroll through the historic grounds of Guildford Castle whilst visiting this wonderful city. The 11th-century castle sits atop a hill in Guildford, providing some picturesque views across the surrounding countryside. The gardens of the castle are beautifully pristine and feature a multitude of colourful flowers and a moat. The castle grounds are free to enter, and if you want to go inside the castle itself, a small fee of under £5 will be required.
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Hydon's Ball is a prominent hilltop situated in the Surrey Hills AONB not too far from Godalming. The hilltop is one of the top 10 highest points in Surrey and is marked by a trig point. The hill is home to a lovely variety of heathland and woodland, and there are some lovey views on offer of the surrounding countryside from the top. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife whilst you're here, including butterflies and birds of prey.
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A slightly long drag up here, but you will almost always be rewarded with beautiful views.
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Until 2011, the A3 bottlenecked at Hindhead, going from two lanes to one. There was always traffic, air pollution was high there was a significant number of accidents. The Hindhead Tunnel was dug to allow the road to continue as a dual carriageway. You can now cycle up the old A3 to the Devil's Punchbowl. The second half is traffic free and the views at the top are beautiful at any time of the year, but especially in the autumn. Look around at the power of nature to reclaim the land.
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A great walk on good surfaces over rolling heathland. Nothing to strenuous; the only steep climb was towards the end.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I see at Puttenham Common?
Puttenham Common offers a diverse landscape including woodland, rolling hills, wetlands, and heathland. It's particularly known for its vibrant heather in late summer. You'll also find a series of artificial, spring-fed ponds that support a variety of water species.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at Puttenham Common?
The common is rich in wildlife, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching, observing butterflies, and dragonflies. It provides a habitat for ground-nesting birds like nightjars and woodlarks, Dartford warblers, natterjack toads, adders, and sand lizards.
Are there any historical sites within the natural monuments around Puttenham?
Yes, towards the northern edge of Puttenham Common, you can find the faint earthworks of Hillbury Hill Fort, a scheduled monument likely dating from the Iron Age. Additionally, the Guildford Castle Grounds, while primarily a viewpoint, are a historical site featuring an 11th-century castle.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments around Puttenham?
Absolutely. Puttenham Common itself is great for families with its extensive trails and picnic areas. Other family-friendly options include the Blackheath Common and the War Memorial, which offers easy walks, and the Devil's Punch Bowl Picnic Site, which has picnic benches, a cafe, and activities for children.
When is the best time to visit the natural monuments in Puttenham?
Late summer is particularly beautiful for visiting Puttenham Common, as the heathland is noted for its vibrant heather. However, the diverse landscapes offer splendid views and wildlife spotting opportunities throughout the year.
What outdoor activities can I do near Puttenham's natural monuments?
The area around Puttenham offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. You can find various cycling routes, such as the 'River Wey – Wey & Arun Canal at Downs Link loop' or 'Puttenham Village – Seale War Memorial loop' mentioned in the Cycling around Puttenham guide. For runners, there are trails like the 'Puttenham Viewpoint – Cuttmill Pond loop' in the Running Trails around Puttenham guide. Mountain biking is also popular, with routes like the 'Cycle Surrey Hills: Elstead and Puttenham Loop' available in the MTB Trails around Puttenham guide.
Is parking available at Puttenham Common or other natural monuments?
Yes, parking is generally available. For instance, the Devil's Punch Bowl Picnic Site has a pay car park. For Puttenham Common, visitors often use designated parking areas, and it's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.
How can I reach Puttenham Common by public transport?
While Puttenham Common is accessible, public transport options directly to the common might be limited. It's recommended to check local bus services to Puttenham village and plan your walk from there. For detailed information on reaching the common, you might find resources on the Surrey County Council website helpful: surreycc.gov.uk.
Are the natural monuments around Puttenham dog-friendly?
Many natural monuments in the Puttenham area, including Puttenham Common, are dog-friendly. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under control, especially in areas with ground-nesting birds or sensitive wildlife. Always check for specific signage regarding dog policies, particularly during nesting seasons.
Where can I find the best viewpoints around Puttenham's natural monuments?
For panoramic views, consider visiting Hydon's Ball Summit, one of the highest points in Surrey, offering extensive countryside vistas. The Top of Highcombe Copse also provides beautiful views, especially in autumn. Additionally, the Guildford Castle Grounds offer picturesque views across the surrounding area from its elevated position.
Are there cafes or pubs near the natural monuments in Puttenham?
Puttenham village itself has local amenities, including pubs and potentially cafes, which can be a good stop before or after exploring the common. For a direct option, the Devil's Punch Bowl Picnic Site features a National Trust cafe on-site.
Do I need any permits to walk on Puttenham Common?
Generally, no specific permits are required for walking on Puttenham Common as it is public access land. However, visitors are expected to follow the Countryside Code, respecting wildlife and keeping the area clean. For any specific events or activities, it's always best to check with local authorities or the Surrey County Council website.
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