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Frensham Little Pond
Medieval bishops' fish pond in tranquil wildlife haven amidst precious heathland
Priory Lane, Frensham, Surrey, GU10 3BT
Important notice
Please keep to footpaths and keep dogs on a short lead to protect the ground-nesting birds. Swimming, inflatables or watercraft are not permitted at Frensham Little Pond. You can swim in designated areas at Frensham Great Pond. No BBQs. Thank you.
Opening times for 20 May 2024
Asset Opening time Countryside Dawn - Dusk Tern Café 10:00 - 16:00 MTWTFSS29301234567891011121314151617181920212223242526272829303112OpenPartially openClosedCafe
The Tern Café serves a selection of snacks, cakes and bakes and hot and cold drinks. There is seating outside only.
Dogs
Well-controlled dogs are welcome. Dogs are not permitted to swim in the pond in order to protect the wildlife. Please keep on leads while birds are nesting (March to September). Dog waste bins are provided in the two main car parks.
Car park
Car parks: Free for National Trust members: please scan your card for your free ticket. Non members please use Paybyphone; area code: 803458 (0330 060 4037) £1.50 per hour for first 2 hours; £4 for up-to 4 hours; £6 for 5 hours and above.
Toilet
Blue badge parking. Many paths are smooth and fairly level.
Level access/terrain
Accessible parking. Many paths are smooth and level.
Steps/uneven terrain
By road
North of Haslemere off A287; pass sign for Frensham Great Pond and village green and then east along Priory Lane. Please park in the allocated car parks. Parking on Priory Lane is prohibited.
On foot
Walk from the school in Frensham, cross the A287 and follow the footpaths to Frensham Little Pond. See Ordnance Survey map Explorer 145
By train
Haslemere station, then take Stagecoach 19 bus
By bus
Stagecoach 19, Aldershot-Haslemere, alight at the school in Frensham. Visit Surrey County Council for further information
By bicycle
North of Haslemere off A287; pass sign for Frensham Great Pond and village green and then east along Priory Lane. View local cycle routes: https://www.sustrans.org.uk/
Planning your visit
Article
Visiting the Surrey Hills with your dog
Surrey Hills is a one pawprint rated place. With a wide variety of paths and open spaces, the Surrey Hills are an ideal place to bring your dog for a walk. Here’s what to keep in mind to keep your dog and others safe.
Highlights
Heath and pond
Medieval bishops' fish pond, set amidst heathland which is internationally important for its variety of rare and endangered wildlife.
Café
Serving hot and cold drinks and light snacks. Outdoor seating area only.
Things to see and do
Article
Things to see and do at Frensham Little Pond
Frensham Little Pond makes for a great day out all year round. Listen out for tuneful birds, walk through fragrant woodland or simply relax by the water.
Eating
Eating at Frensham Little Pond
Tern Café is on the northern side of the pond, near the sandy beaches and close to the water. Choose from a selection of paninis and croques; sausage rolls and pasties; cakes, flapjacks and brownies; croissants, pain au chocolates and pastries, or treat yourself to one of our luxury hot chocolates.
Top trails
Trail
Frensham Little Pond family walk
Follow this route along the banks of a historic and tranquil lake, through wooded areas and up to the top of ridge, looking out for waterfowl and songbirds as you go.
About Frensham Little Pond
Frensham Little Pond and Great Pond were originally created in the 13th century, to supply fish to the Bishop of Winchester and his court, whilst visiting Farnham Castle. Today the pond and surrounding area is a sanctuary for wildlife with always something new to see.
Around the pond you can spot many common and rare birds, such as reed bunting, sedge warbler and great crested grebe, as well as nightjars and woodlarks. There are damselflies and dragonflies darting over the glistening water in warmer months, and the banks of the pond are fringed with a multitude of yellow iris, purple loose-strife and common reeds.
The heathland is a colourful mosaic of purple heathers, fragrant bright yellow gorse and rich green bracken. There are ancient gnarled oaks and pines to be found scattered across the site, and many footpaths to explore.
Frensham is internationally important for the variety of rare and endangered wildlife that thrive on the heath and is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, a Special Protection Area and a Special Area of Conservation. The Common and Great Pond are leased to and managed by Waverley Borough Council.
History
Article
History of Frensham Little Pond
Today a peaceful pond and haven for wildlife, Frensham Little Pond was once the site of early industrial action and was even used as a military training ground.
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Volunteer with us
Search for live volunteering opportunities, or register your interest with Frensham Little Pond.