The stunning Surrey autumn walk ending at a pub so good customers want to keep it a secret

As winter rolls in as does the desire to wrap up warm and set off across the countryside. Shorter days make it easier to experience a sunrise or sunset, and the less than warm weather means the pub at the finishing point becomes more inviting.

One spot that ticks all these boxes is through Abinger Common, just outside Dorking. Featuring winding woodland trails, hamlets and a lake, the route packs a lot in. While there are longer walks across Abinger Common, this is a smaller four mile route that is described as easy walking by Fancy Free Walks.

It begins outside the Abinger Hatch pub, which is perfect for a pre or post hike refresher and takes in some of the prettiest forests in Surrey. From the pub, walkers are directed towards the Tillingbourne Stream. Here a gentle flow of water glides through the countryside. After crossing the ford (or footbridge if the water is too deep) you will then come across Pond Cottage and Friday Street lake.

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After the lake, walkers will come across the Stephan Langton inn, while this is no longer open it makes a good waypoint for the rest of the route. Hikers then continue through the hamlet until you get a choice of path.

The Village Route uses paths close to the village of Holmbury St Mary with a longer walk through the woods. The High Woodland Route stays in the forest on unmarked paths, giving you a gentler walk but more focused navigation.

Either way, walkers will eventually get back to the pub, having worked up a bit of an appetite. The Abinger Hatch is a family run spot that makes the most of its rural location. Outside there is an extensive garden and patio seating area, but winter weather may make the two log-burning fires inside more tempting.

The A la carte menu is updated twice a year meaning food is seasonal and the team of chefs prides themselves on using local produce as much as possible.

The pub was given a Tripadvisor Travellers Choice award for 2024 and has an impressive 4.5 star rating on that website. Reviewers frequently compliment the ‘buzzy’ and ‘friendly’ atmosphere with one even writing “We’ve visited this pub once before and we were so impressed with the food we came back today for more. Amazing sea bass and one of the best fruit crumbles I’ve had in a long time. All coupled with a lovely remote feeling in the countryside and the most friendly, helpful staff. It’s almost too good that you want to keep it a secret.”

The food can mainly be described as pub classics, such as fish and chips (£18.50), Chef’s Short Crust Pie (£18.50) as well as a range of burgers and pizzas. Like with any county pub, there is a separate Sunday menu with a large variety of roasts.

The indecisive are well served by the Trio of Roasts (£21.50) where customers get rare striploin of beef, roasted pork loin and leg of lamb, as well as roasted potatoes, seasonal vegetables and a Yorkshire pudding. There is also the option to add pigs in blankets or cauliflower cheese for £5, making any meal more festive.

At the bar you will find a selection of real ales and craft beers, a long wine list and more than 20 gins. The pub has ample parking and is also dog friendly making it a good pit stop.

Address: Abinger Hatch, Abinger Lane, Abinger Common, Dorking, RH5 6HZ

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