Thursley

Bank Holiday Monday took us to Thursley, between Guildford and Hindhead where we explored the Common and Nature Reserve.  Parking is available in the Moat carpark on Thursley Road just south of Guildford although this appears to be very popular and we were lucky to find a space.

The common is a nice mix of woodland...

and open healthland.

Heidi was enjoying herself although Kiki kept disappearing.

We also walked around the duckboards surrounding the nature reserve.  Signs politely request that dogs be put on leads due to ground nesting birds in this area. This can be something of a bugbear for me, many National Trust properties put similar signs everywhere despite there being no obvious risk or signs of the livestock mentioned, however, we were only too happy to oblige in this instance given the hunting nature of our two.  

We decided to try the Three Horseshoes in Thursley for a quick drink and I was very impressed.  The menu looks a little pricey but if the quality matches the beer then it should be worth it.  The pub is dog friendly and there is a large garden out the back.

All in, a lovely walk with a very nice pub.  We shall certainly return to the area.

Devil's Punchbowl

We decided to venture slightly further afield last Sunday and decided on the Devil's Punchbowl near Hindhead in Surrey.  We'd not been there for many years, certainly well before we had the dogs and were pleasantly surprised to find the busy road alongside has now disappeared thanks to the completion of the tunnel.

We walked up to the trip point with lovely views back to the North Downs.  It was still overcast at this point but given the torrential downpour on the way this was a nice surprise.

And over to the celtic cross.

We then dropped down into the Punchbowl itself, what a lovely spot to live although it's a fair old walk to the pub.  The day was beginning to brighten up by this time.

Heidi enjoyed herself as usual, particularly with the ponies.

And walked back through the trees with occasional glimpses back towards the bowl.

The view from the car park.

For post walk refreshment we visited The Woolpack in Elstead.  A pleasant enough pub although clearly more geared to food and dog friendly but be warned they have rabbits running loose in the beer garden.  We opted to sit inside...

Leith Hill

Easter Monday took us to Leith Hill, the highest spot in Surrey.  The hill itself falls tantalisingly short of the magic 1,000 feet mark so somebody had the bright idea of building a tower to make up the difference.  This now holds a small kiosk selling drinks and snacks which is always welcome to certain family members.  You can also climb the tower and the views can be stunning on clear days.

We parked in the newly expanded National Trust car park for Leith Hill Place although there are several other options dotted around.  There are several waymarked routes or you can just explore if you're feeling adventurous .

Sadly the current air pollution in the UK restricted the views somewhat.

Not that this bothered Heidi.

Leith Hill Place has opened to the public in the past few years with dogs being allowed in the grounds.

Thoroughly tired but very happy after her exertions.

We did want to pop into the Plough in Coldharbour but sadly we were too early and it wasn't open, hopefully next time.  Instead, after popping into a pet shop in Dorking, we opted for The Dophin, Betchworth.  A lovely little pub in a wonderful setting and one that actually allows dogs in the restaurant area.