Headley Heath
Headley, Surrey
Headley Heath is 530 acres of National Trust heathland set on the chalk ridge above Headley village, and the sandy paths give it a drier, more open character than most Surrey walks. The terrain underfoot is largely firm and well-drained, which makes it a year-round option in a way that many Surrey clay walks are not.
The belted Galloway cattle that graze here move through rotating zones marked clearly on-site. Leads are required wherever they are currently grazing. Between 1 March and 31 August the whole heath operates under lead restrictions to protect ground-nesting nightjar and woodlark, so check the season before you plan for off-lead running.
The route passes the boundary of Nower Wood, but the wood itself is a Surrey Wildlife Trust educational reserve with no public access and no dogs permitted. Stay on the National Trust land throughout. Adders are present on the heathland and should be taken seriously in the warmer months - keep dogs on paths and away from bracken.
There is usually a food van at the car park. The Cock Inn in Headley village is a short drive and reliably dog-friendly. Pay for parking via JustPark before you leave home - signal on the heath is poor.
Frequently asked questions
Can I let my dog off the lead at Headley Heath?
It depends on the time of year. Between 1 March and 31 August, dogs must be on leads across the whole heath to protect ground-nesting birds including nightjar and woodlark. Outside those months, dogs can be off-lead on most of the heath but must go back on leads near the belted Galloway cattle grazing zones, which are clearly marked on-site.
Is the car park free?
No. Parking costs £2 for up to 1 hour, rising to £9 for a full day. National Trust members park free. Payment is via JustPark app or on-site machine - note the signal is poor on the heath, so set up JustPark before you leave home.
Are there adders at Headley Heath?
Yes. Adders are confirmed at the site and active from March through October. Keep your dog on paths and away from long grass and bracken, particularly in spring when adders bask after coming out of hibernation. If your dog is bitten, take it to a vet immediately.
Can I walk through Nower Wood with my dog?
No. Despite the walk name, Nower Wood is a private Surrey Wildlife Trust educational nature reserve with no public access. Dogs are not permitted. The route stays on National Trust land adjacent to the reserve.
Plan this walk with live weather and dog-safe route info