Summary: Happy New Year folks! The first of my 2010 walks starts at the well-known and popular Newlands Corner. I think this is one of the most beautiful spots on the North Downs. For those who have not had the pleasure of visiting there before, it is located on the A25 just south of Merrow on the way to Shere.

This is a fun route that follows the SWT's Purple Markers and takes in a number of fantastic views whatever time of the year that you decide to take the wander. Newlands Corner is a popular starting point for many different difficulties and lengths of walks. The local woods and Meadow make an ideal walk for any member of the family.

Please be exceptionally careful when crossing the A25 at Silent Pool and again at the end of the walk. Be warned that the climb from Silent Pool to the North Downs Way is steep. This walk is best done on a beautiful clear day so you can take in the spectacular views at St Martha’s on the Hill as well as Newland Corner itself. The route can be muddy and slippery after rain and quite icy if you are an early bird after a heavy frost.

The attached Surrey Wildlife Trust brochure and map will be adequate to navigate the route, but you may want to take along an Ordnance Survey Explorer 145 if you like playing with proper maps. Please take a compass with you in case you get disorientated. As always dress for the weather and take some water and a mobile phone with you.

If you would prefer to start off a bit more gently then why not try the Butterfly trail (Green markers, 1 hour) or if you only want to dip your toes in, try the Deer trail (White Markers, 45 minutes). If you like motorcycles then a sunny Sunday morning is recommended as hordes of bikers turn up to show off their rides. There is a refreshment kiosk at the car park. Happy Walking and if you have any feedback please send it to rambles@mealin.me.uk

The Route: The route starts in the car park, it doesn’t matter where in the car park that you park as you will leave the car park through the west and return to the east side of the car park.

From your car proceed towards the west end of the car park and along the bridal path that leaves the west end of the car park. Follow this bridal path taking the left fork towards Guildford Lane Car Park and St. Marthas.

Follow the path down the lane and proceed to the right following the curve of the St Marthas Hill on its north side. Proceed up the hill and enjoy the views of St Marthas Church (if you are lucky you may even get a chance to look round the church too). From St Marthas proceed down the hill to the east past the car park to the east of the hill following the "Pilgrims Way Path". By following this path you will pass two cross paths both which lead back to Newlands Corner, the second of these crossroads is staggered and is on Water Lane.

Turn left on the lane and walk round the north of Water Lane Cottages. Carry on along the "Pilgrims Way" to the north of the Sand Pit and breaking right in a South Easterly direction. This path will bring you out onto the A248. On the A248, turn left and walk up the edge of the road and cross over the A25, this will take you into the Silent Pool car park; follow the way points up past the beautiful and crystal clear pools. Carry on up the steps and slope back onto the North Downs Way. This is the most strenuous part of the route but it isn't too far. Once at the top it is reasonably flat back to your car.