New Signage at Nature Reserve Unveiled

Published on: 19 May, 2025
Updated on: 21 May, 2025

GBC parks and countryside team at Tyting Farm

New signs have been installed at Tyting Farm to encourage visitors to make the most of scenic walks in the surrounding Surrey Hills. These signs show visitors what to look out for in the nature reserve.

There’s over a mile of new paths that can be enjoyed by people looking to extend their walks in the area, with connections to popular routes nearby.

As well as being good for walkers, Tyting Farm is an important site for wildlife. Guildford Borough Council’s parks and countryside teams are carrying out work to restore chalk grassland, plant trees, maintain hedgerows and remove invasive species such as rhododendron and laurel.

This is part of the council’s commitment to becoming a more sustainable and environmentally responsible borough.

Tyting Farm has an interesting history. It was purchased by the council in 1942 but soon after was requisitioned by the War Department and turned into a training school for the government’s secret Special Operations Executive during World War Two, with aeroplanes landing on nearby farmland.

In the 1950s the site was turned into a farm. The former Tyting Hall was demolished and several farm buildings were constructed.

Innovative “NoFence” GPS technology keeps cattle in particular areas and deters them from blocking gateways and paths. It’s also being used to make grazing at the farm more efficient.

As part of the recent restorative works to Tyting Farm, the parks and countryside team have planted a mile of hedgerows. They have used traditional methods to boost connectivity for local wildlife and provide nesting for birds.

Cllr George Potter

Lead councillor for Environment and Climate Change, George Potter (Lib Dem, Burpham) said: “It’s brilliant to see the new information signs installed at Tyting Farm. They’re designed to encourage people to explore the surrounding area. We know there are positive benefits of spending time outdoors on people’s health and wellbeing.

“Our parks and countryside teams deserve great praise for their work in making our green spaces enjoyable for visitors, improving local habitats and protecting the environment. As we combat the effects of climate change in Guildford, it’s important we look after our parks and green spaces. Our aim is to be Net Zero by 2030 and projects like this one support that target.

“I hope residents will head to Tyting Farm and enjoy the walks on offer.”

Tyting Farm is easily reached along footpaths from surrounding areas including Chantry Wood, Pewley Downs, St Martha’s Hill, Newlands Corner and Merrow Downs, For those undeterred by hills and looking to leave their car at home, it is possible to walk directly from Guildford town centre on the North Downs Way.

More information about climate change on Guildford Borough Council’s website.

Find out more about conservation grazing at Tyting Farm.