Merrow Downs is a delightful year-round recreational area for walking, cycling and running. This lovely chalk downland receives over 100,000 visits per year.
The areas of Merrow Downs open to the public include the sizeable grass downland to the west of the Guildford Golf Course, the footpaths that cross and border Guildford Golf Course, and parts of The Roughs that extend up towards Newlands Corner. Guildford Golf Course is described as ‘Surrey’s hidden gem’ with its pristine rolling downland fairways and its panoramic views that extend to Wembley Arch and Canary Wharf.
Merrow Downs has a fascinating history. Between 1701 and 1870 it was the site of the Guildford Horse Race Course where flat and jump races were held over a two mile circuit. During World War II it was the site of a prisoner of war camp where 880 Italian troops captured in North Africa were held, followed later by German prisoners transported from the USA and Canada.
One of the most popular trails for hiking, running and cycling on Merrow Downs is a 5 km circuit from near the Guildford Golf Course carpark up to Newlands Corner and back. You will see fantastic countryside and panoramas, ancient (950-years old) yew trees and, if you are lucky, even roe deer!