A Registered Common, Area of High Ecological Value and Outstanding Natural Beauty found to the east of the Borough bounded by Trodds Lane to the east and farmland to the north. The Common is steeped in history and is well used by locals being a short distance from many housing estates and the town centre. Guildford Golf Club covers some of the Common; leased from the Borough with the public retaining a right to roam across it. This was also the site of Guildford’s racecourse well used until the likes of Ascot grew, and a PoW (Prisoner of War) camp in the Second World War. The area now contains a diverse footpath network and a variety of landscape types, with spectacular views to London and the north.

Access/furniture
Public footpaths and tracks dissect the site throughout and in general the area has unrestricted access. Parking is available on Merrow Down next to the Golf Club at the end of Down Road or the Common can be accessed via Newlands Corner, a County managed beauty spot with parking and café. Disabled and pushchair access along main tracks.

Habitat
The Golf Course is situated on Chalk Downland, which has over the years suffered form encroachment; the majority of the remainder of the Common is broadleaved woodland. Predominantly hazel coppice under oak, this woodland is rich in biodiversity and is complemented by stands of impressive old yew trees estimated to be over 1000 years old.

Management
Only reactive management is carried out currently, tree works, footpath repair and regular firebreak management. If funding can be sourced the areas of hazel will be restored to managed coppice, increasing biodiversity by varying the age structure in the woodland and range of habitats. Further management of high forest, long-term retention of individual trees, extension of rides etc. will also be programmed.

Trees and Countryside Section
Parks and Countryside Services
Guildford Borough Council
Stoke Park Nursery
Nightingale Road
Guildford
Surrey
GU1 1ER

Tel: 01483 444771
Email: countryside@guildford.gov.uk