The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Shere
4.7
(1193)
6,062
hikers
174
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Shere are set within the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, characterized by rolling chalk hills and extensive woodlands. The region is strategically positioned between the North Downs and the Greensand Ridge, offering varied geological formations. The Tillingbourne Valley, with its gently flowing river, provides charming riverside paths, while Shere Heath presents a rare lowland heathland habitat.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Shere
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Holmbury Hill…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.7
(69)
266
hikers
15.6km
04:20
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(43)
179
hikers
4.50km
01:12
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.8
(21)
117
hikers
5.78km
01:37
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(21)
77
hikers
18.0km
05:04
360m
360m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(21)
80
hikers
10.2km
02:44
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Shere
Greensand Way — A spellbinding ridge-hike across Surrey and Kent
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
Walk Britain – 90 car-free adventures in England, Wales and Scotland
Surrey Cycleway – Abundant history and olympic hills
Other adventures around Shere
Tips from the Community
Added to the collection: komoot.com/de-de/collection/3600632/-naturdenkmaeler-besondere-baeume-und-weitere-schaetze-der-natur
0
0
Great cup of tea and amazing pastries and cakes. A lovely village shop, perfect spot for a break.
0
0
We walked past here in September 2025 but sadly the waterfall was totally dry and not running even tho it had been a very rainy week. A lot of the vegetation around it has also been cut.
0
0
James the Elder (the Latin word 'major' is not translated as 'great' in English), to whom this church in Shere was dedicated, belongs, together with his brother, to the closest circle of Jesus' disciples. In his version of the "Good News" (this is the meaning of the word "gospel"), the Evangelist Mark lists the apostles: "James, the son of Zebedee, and John, the brother of James - to whom he gave the nickname Boanerges, that is, sons of thunder" (Mark 3:17). They are said to have been very temperamental, but were loyal followers of Jesus Christ, in whom they recognized the promised Messiah. According to the Acts of the Apostles, James was executed for his faith. His grave in Santiago de Compostela in Galicia (Spain) is one of the most famous and important pilgrimage destinations in the world.
0
0
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).
1
0
...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/
0
0
The bench here provides a glorious view towards the picturesque village of Shere and the Tillingbourne Valley. The impressive steeple of St James' Church is prominent. Shere famously featured as the English village setting in classic romcom The Holiday.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Shere?
There are over 170 family-friendly hiking trails around Shere, with more than 80 of these rated as easy, making them suitable for various family abilities and ages.
What kind of landscapes can we expect on family hikes near Shere?
The area around Shere offers a diverse and picturesque landscape, perfect for family adventures. You'll find rolling chalk hills, extensive woodlands that burst with bluebells in spring and golden hues in autumn, and the scenic Tillingbourne Valley with its gentle River Tillingbourne. The Greensand Ridge provides varied geological formations, and Shere Heath offers a rare lowland heathland habitat with sandy paths.
Are there any easy, short walks suitable for families with young children or toddlers?
Yes, there are many easy options. A great choice for families with young children is the Shere Parish Millennium Trail. This accessible 4.5 km loop is perfect for exploring the village and its immediate natural surroundings without being too strenuous.
Can we bring our dog on these family-friendly trails?
Most trails around Shere are dog-friendly, allowing your furry family members to join the adventure. However, please remember to keep dogs under control, especially in areas with livestock or sensitive wildlife habitats like Shere Heath, which is home to adders and sand lizards.
What interesting sights or landmarks can we discover on family hikes?
Shere and its surroundings are rich in attractions. You can visit the enchanting, spring-fed Silent Pool, explore the historic St Martha's Church with its expansive views, or ascend Holmbury Hill for impressive vistas and Iron Age remnants. The village of Shere itself, with its historic architecture and traditional pubs, is a charming highlight.
Are there good parking options for family hikes in Shere?
Yes, Shere village typically offers parking facilities, often near the village center or trailheads, making it convenient to start your family hike. Specific parking details can usually be found on individual route descriptions on komoot.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Shere?
The family-friendly trails around Shere are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the beautiful, varied scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the charming village atmosphere, making it a popular choice for families.
When is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Shere?
Shere is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly enchanting. In spring, the woodlands are vibrant with bluebells, while autumn transforms the landscape into a palette of golden browns. Summer offers pleasant conditions for longer walks, and even winter walks can be magical, especially on crisp, clear days.
Are there any trails that feature water, like a river or a lake?
Absolutely! Many routes incorporate the gentle River Tillingbourne, offering charming riverside paths. The enchanting Silent Pool, a spring-fed body of water steeped in local folklore, is also a popular feature on several trails, such as the longer Shere, Blackheath, and Silent Pool loop.
Where can we find refreshments or a meal after our family hike?
The village of Shere itself is an excellent place to refuel. It boasts traditional pubs like The White Horse, which are perfect for a family-friendly meal or a refreshing drink after your walk. There are also cafes and shops for lighter snacks.
Can we spot any wildlife on the trails around Shere?
Yes, the diverse habitats around Shere are home to various wildlife. In Shere Heath, you might spot rare species like adders, sand lizards, Dartford Warblers, and Nightjars. The woodlands and riverside paths also offer opportunities to see common birds, ducks, and other small mammals.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, many of the family-friendly trails around Shere are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. The Shere Parish Millennium Trail is a great example of an easy circular route. For a slightly longer, moderate option, consider the Shere & Little London loop via Blackheath Common.
Most popular routes around Shere
Most popular attractions around Shere
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
