Ranmore Common and Denbies Vineyard Walk
Surrey
Dog friendly and one of the best-known walks on the North Downs Way, this circular links Ranmore Common with the chalk grassland of Denbies Hillside and the long rows of the Denbies vineyard, the largest in England. The classic version loops through Polesden Lacey on its way around, giving a generous full-day route with varied scenery and some of the finest southerly views in Surrey.
Dogs should be on lead for most of the walk because the trails are mixed-use with mountain bikers and horse riders, and because grazing sheep are used to maintain the fragile chalk grassland. Paths are firm chalk and flint, with one steady climb up out of Denbies and a gentle high-level return. Parking is free at the Denbies Wine Estate car park off Bradley Lane, or pay (free for NT members) at Denbies Hillside NT car park.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 9.5 km (5.9 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 3 hr
- Walk Type
- Peak, Historic
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Low
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- Denbies Wine Estate cafe and shop; toilets and cafe at Polesden Lacey mid-route (National Trust).
- Parking
- Free parking at Denbies Wine Estate (Bradley Lane) or pay-and-display at Denbies Hillside National Trust car park (free for members).
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ranmore Common and Denbies Vineyard Walk dog friendly?
Yes, this is a well-regarded dog-friendly walk and one of the best-known routes on the North Downs Way, earning a solid 8 out of 10 on our dog-friendly rating. It takes in Ranmore Common, the chalk grassland of Denbies Hillside and the sweeping vine rows of Denbies Wine Estate — the largest vineyard in England — with the option to loop through Polesden Lacey for a full day out.
Can dogs be off lead at Ranmore Common and Denbies Vineyard Walk?
Dogs should be kept on lead for most of this walk. The trails are shared with mountain bikers and horse riders, and grazing sheep are used to manage the fragile chalk grassland, so leads are important for safety and conservation throughout the route.
What should I know before visiting Ranmore Common and Denbies Vineyard Walk with my dog?
The paths are firm chalk and flint, with one steady climb up from Denbies and a gentler return along the higher ground, so it's a comfortable walk underfoot. There's free parking at the Denbies Wine Estate car park on Bradley Lane, or a pay-and-display option at the National Trust's Denbies Hillside car park (free for NT members). If you're doing the full loop via Polesden Lacey, you'll find toilets and a café there mid-route, as well as a café and shop at Denbies Wine Estate.
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