Climb Dragon Hill, St Catherine’s Hill, Guildford
A walk to St Catherine’s Hill involves the River Wey, bridges, a lock, a sacred spring and water meadows.
St Catherine’s Hill
St Catherine’s Hill used to be called Drakehull (or Dragon Hill) and is a sacred site that dates back thousands of years to the Stone Age.
In the 14th century a chapel was built here, which now lies in ruins.
Sacred Spring
At the bottom of St Catherine’s Hill by the River Wey is a sacred spring that was believed to cure sore eyes.
Next to it is a little plaque and a poem:
“Your upward path, my downward flow
Are fixed by law divine,
My task is to refresh your soul,
Yours to discover mine”
River Wey Navigations
The River Wey flows past St Catherine’s Hill.
You can follow the River Wey Navigations footpath along the river (if you are looking at the river then follow the path to the right)
and on to St Catherine’s Lock.
St Catherine’s Lock
When at the lock, you can either turn around and go back to the car park the same way you have come or cross the river
and follow the footpath back to Shalford Park,
passing St Mary’s Church, Shalford.
This route is wilder than the path along the river, with obstacles like fallen trees
Finding St Catherine’s Hill
As you leave Shalford Park car park, head to the line of trees on your right
and follow the footpath that leads through the trees and on to the River Wey.
Once at the river, cross the bridge
walk past the spring and up Ferry Lane to the main road.
St Catherine’s Hill is on your left and will take you up to the church.
Visit the St Catherine’s Hill website
Further Information
Nearest Town: Guildford
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: GU3 1LJ is the nearest postcode but parking is on the other side of the River Wey at GU4 8AA.
Opens: Daily
Cost: Free
Where to Eat: Bring a picnic and a blanket.
Facilities: None.
How Long We Spent There: 3 hours
Buggies: Generally buggy friendly but some of the paths can be narrow.
Parking: There is a car park at Shalford Park (GU4 8AA).
Cost of Parking: £4 per day.
Wildlife You Might See: Ducks and other birds, butterflies and other insects.
Information Written: July 2022
Ratings
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