Top 18 Lakes in Surrey Hills Aonb
Lakes in Surrey Hills AONB are situated within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, featuring diverse landscapes of heathland, woodlands, and chalk downs. This region is home to a variety of water bodies, including historic ponds and larger artificial lakes, which serve as important wildlife habitats. These lakes offer numerous opportunities for outdoor exploration and provide tranquil settings for visitors. The area's natural beauty and varied aquatic environments make it a notable destination for those seeking to connect with…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Friday Street Mill Pond
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Silent Pool
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Frensham Little Pond
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Spynes Mere Nature Reserve
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Stockbridge Pond
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The pond is fed by an underwater spring and is known for its crystal clear …
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Popular around Surrey Hills Aonb
Multi-use magic in the Surrey Hills – Leith Hill Greenway
Downs Link and South Downs Way loop from Guildford
Greensand Way — A spellbinding ridge-hike across Surrey and Kent
Downs Link — Step back in time on ancient and beautiful hike
Surrey Cycleway – Abundant history and olympic hills
North Downs Way — Hike through 3,000 years of heavenly history
Discover London’s Outdoor Playgrounds
Tillingbourne Trails – a journey into the valley’s industrial heritage
Accessible beauty – Easier Access Routes in the Surrey Hills
Rail to Ramble routes – gorgeous walks in the Surrey Hills
Other adventures in Surrey Hills Aonb
Tips from the Community
Generally quiet lanes around this area with sandy paths to jump on and off.
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Don’t use this track as it was flooded. My tire was fully under - best head up to Mertsham and go around in order to avoid
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Nutfield Marsh lies in the vale of Holmesdale between the North Downs and the Greensand Ridge and comprises of a series wetland sites - The Moors, Spynes Mere, Holmethorpe Lagoons and Mercer Country Park. These areas were restored from sand workings along the Redhill Brook and now support a myriad of wetland wildlife. The Trust manages The Moors.
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Generally pretty quiet, so great to include on local rides.
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Indian cafe/shop very much present & seems worth trying. If you're into gin, there's also a distillery with bar (booking might be needed).
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...many feel an eerie stillness looking out over the still water surrounded by the evergreen box trees. Legend has it that this is due to the fate of a woodcutter's daughter who was surprised by a nobleman on a horse as she bathed in the pool. Having failed to lure her to the bank, he rode his horse into the water and caused the girl to move out to deeper water where she drowned. When the woodcutter returned and found her body, he also found the nobleman's hat floating on the water. It bore the crest of none other than Prince John! Source: https://www.visitsurrey.com/listing/silent-pool/66361101/
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in the Surrey Hills AONB are suitable for families?
Several lakes are great for families. Frensham Little Pond offers a circular walk under 3 km and a tranquil atmosphere. Virginia Water Lake has a scenic circular walk, with about half of it paved, suitable for prams and younger children. Spynes Mere Nature Reserve is also noted as family-friendly.
Can I swim in the lakes in the Surrey Hills AONB?
Yes, swimming is permitted in designated areas at Frensham Great Pond, which features a sandy beach. Additionally, Buckland Park Lake offers open water swimming through The Surrey Hills Adventure Company (SHAC).
What historical features can I find around the lakes?
Virginia Water Lake is rich in history, featuring genuine Roman ruins brought from Leptis Magna in 1816 and a 30-meter-high Canadian totem pole. Frensham Great Pond dates back to the 13th century, originally created to supply fish. Friday Street Mill Pond once powered a hammer mill until the 18th century.
Are there good walking trails around the lakes?
Absolutely. Virginia Water Lake offers a popular 4.5-mile circular walk, with roughly half of it paved. Around Frensham Little Pond, you can enjoy a circular walk under 3 km, and the broader Frensham Loop trail traverses both Frensham Ponds through wild scenery. For more hiking options, you can explore various easy hikes in Surrey Hills AONB.
Which lakes are best for wildlife spotting?
Stockbridge Pond, fed by an underwater spring, is a peaceful spot to observe wildlife like swans, ducks, and various fish. Frensham Great Pond and Little Pond are part of Frensham Common, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Special Protection Area (SPA), vital for rare and endangered wildlife.
Are there dog-friendly lakes in the Surrey Hills AONB?
Virginia Water Lake's woodland shores are popular with dog walkers. Frensham Little Pond is also generally dog-friendly, though it's always best to check local signage for specific restrictions, especially around sensitive wildlife areas.
What water sports or activities are available at the lakes?
At Buckland Park Lake, you can enjoy open water swimming, paddleboarding, and eFoiling through The Surrey Hills Adventure Company (SHAC). Sailing is available at Frensham Great Pond for members of the Frensham Pond Sailing Club.
Is fishing allowed in the lakes?
Angling is available at Frensham Great Pond for members of the Farnham Angling Society. Bury Hill Fisheries, historically a significant fishing spot, is now exclusively for members of the Bury Hill Angling Club and not open for public day tickets.
What makes Silent Pool unique?
Silent Pool is a natural monument known for its exceptionally clear, spring-fed waters and eerie stillness, surrounded by evergreen box trees. Its tranquil beauty and proximity to the charming village of Shere make it a popular stop for walkers.
Are there any accessible routes around the lakes?
Frensham Great Pond has a restored accessible boardwalk leading to its sandy beach. Virginia Water Lake features a circular walk of about 4.5 miles, with roughly half of it paved, making it more accessible for various mobility levels.
What kind of cycling routes can I find near the lakes?
The Surrey Hills AONB offers a variety of cycling routes. You can find several road cycling routes in the region, including loops around Box Hill and Leith Hill, which are often close to various lake areas.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in Surrey Hills AONB?
Visitors appreciate the diverse landscapes, from the sandy beaches of Frensham Great Pond to the tranquil, clear waters of Silent Pool. The combination of natural beauty, historical sites like those at Virginia Water, and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and water sports are highly valued.
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Still not found your perfect lake in Surrey Hills Aonb? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
