Frensham Little Pond family walk
This family-friendly route takes you along the banks of historic Frensham Little Pond, through wooded areas and up to the top of Snowball Ridge. As well as tranquil views of the lake, there's the chance to spot a host of waterfowl and songbirds and, in the summer, experience the colourful meadows buzzing with wildlife.
Near to
Frensham Little PondStart point
Car park in Priory Lane, grid ref SU857418Trail information
Total stages: 8
Total stages: 8
Start point
Car park in Priory Lane, grid ref SU857418
Stage 1
Leave the car park along the flat path signposted to the café through the Scots pine trees. Continue behind the café, keeping to the flattish ground and walking through deciduous trees and round the edge of the pond.
Stage 2
Follow the path as it bends round to the right and comes close to the water and you'll see the medieval dam. The pond has changed very little since it was created in 1296 by damning a small river to enlarge an existing mere, providing fresh fish for nearby Farnham Castle. Continue following the path to the right along the lakeshore.
Stage 3
As you follow the path around the lake, you'll notice trees, shrubs and reeds by the water. We maintain these as a protective zone for breeding water birds.
Stage 4
The path follows the edge of the woodland alongside a boundary fence, skirting a small wetland area. After 100 yards, it turns sharply right through the woodland and crosses a boardwalk over the marshy ground before coming out at the edge of the woodland.
Stage 5
As you come out of the wood, take the path to the right, keeping the trees to your right as you head back towards the lake. The path you are on will reach a junction with a broader path running left to right. Follow it right and you'll begin to climb up to the ridge.
Stage 6
Along this stretch, there's a super view up to the ridge of Frensham Common. At the top of the ridge, you'll come to a crossroads in the trees. Take the path to the right.
Stage 7
You are now on Snowball Ridge, with a lovely walk through the trees ahead of you. Listen out for birds such as firecrests, woodpeckers and nuthatches. There some benches up here so you can enjoy the great views before beginning your descent back down to the lake.
Stage 8
As you come down the hill you'll see the café, where you can reward yourselves with refreshments or a light lunch.
End point
Car park in Priory Lane, grid ref SU857418
Trail map
The Frensham Little Pond family walk | © Crown copyright and database rights 2013 Ordnance Survey
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Frensham Little Pond
Medieval bishops' fish pond in tranquil wildlife haven amidst precious heathland
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