UK beauty spot taking on world-famous opponents for title of best walking path
Thursley Common is a large nature reserve full of heathland, ponds and woodland in the South West of Surrey, and it's the South East's entry in the competition
A picturesque Surrey location is vying for the title of Britain's best path, competing against some larger contenders.
Known for its winding boardwalk and breathtaking views, this vast nature reserve is hoping to clinch the national title.
Thursley Common, representing the entire South East in this challenging competition organised by Ramblers, spans approximately 350 hectares in the South West of Surrey.
It boasts a diverse landscape of heathland, ponds, and woodland.
The site has been nominated for its boardwalk and meandering path through the common, offering visitors the chance to spot wildlife and enjoy the view.
The nomination is particularly noteworthy given that the site has only recently recovered from a devastating fire in 2020, which destroyed a third of the area and harmed an estimated 200-300 animal and plant species.
In May 2020, residents were evacuated as a blaze rapidly spread across the site, with massive plumes of smoke visible for miles and local roads closed.
Since then, the Friends of Thursley Common have emphasised the fire risk, advising against the use of BBQs and enforcing a smoking ban.
A local who has spent their entire life cherishing Thursley Common has explained why it has been nominated for this prestigious award, reports Surrey Live.
They shared: "I grew up in Elstead so have walked this area all my life and when I was young the wetlands didn't exist, they have evolved overtime, with the help of conservation, bringing a vast range of wildlife and the beauty of nature to the common."
"It is also a special area for sunrise and sunset. Sadly a few years ago the common was severely on fire, burning the entire boardwalk, and the wardens and locals worked hard with dedication to repair the area, which we are now able to enjoy again."
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Visitors can enjoy numerous walking trails throughout the common, offering glimpses of foxes, deer, birds of prey, and lizards. Parking is available at the Moat car park and in Thursley Village.
In addition to walkers, the site is also popular with horse riders and cyclists, and the Friends of Thursley Common provide activities to keep children engaged.
Thursley Common faces competition from notable sites such as the West Coast Path in the South West, The Pennine Way in the Midlands, and Haldren Forest in Wales.
