A heathland excursion on Chobham Common, 8.5 miles, leisurely

A circular walk through a mixture of heathland and woodland, mostly within Chobham Common National Nature Reserve offering expansive views across the landscape.

Difficulty: Leisurely
Distance: 13.7km / 8.5mi
Type: circular

Walk details
We’ll head east out of Sunningdale to reach the first section of the common, passing under the M3 to reach more open heathland, from where some very small hills offer good views across the expanse of the common. After crossing the heath, we’ll walk through the woodland around Gracious Pond and Butts Hill, skirting Langshot Bog and crossing the motorway again at Valley End. A short section of road leads us to our pub stop at the Brickmakers, before we return to the start across Ribs Down and the golf course, and for anyone seeking further refreshment the Broomhall Hutt is very close to the station.

Although most of the walk is fairly level on decent paths, there are a few small hills and short sections of narrower paths encroached upon by heather and gorse. There also sandy sections which could become muddy in wet weather.

Travel details
By public transport
The 09:54 train from Reading (10:08 Wokingham, 10:14 Bracknell) arrives in Sunningdale at 10:25 in time for the start of the walk. The walk leader will be on this train – if it is delayed, the start of the walk will be too. Return trains run every half hour.

By car
There is some parking available at Sunningdale station, where charges probably apply, or you may be able to park legally and considerately elsewhere nearby. Either way, please allow time to pay for your parking if necessary and make your way to the start point at the station entrance ready for the start of the walk.

Dogs
Assistance dogs only on this walk please, as much of it lies within a nature reserve.

Please see our dogs policy on our group website for more details.

Notes

Please bring a packed lunch and plenty of water.
It might be muddy – please wear suitable footwear.

Please see our group website for more information: https://www.berkshirewalkers.co.uk/