Pray Heath

Wood, Forest in Surrey Woking

England

Pray Heath

Worplesdon Station Worplesdon station was built between Woking and Guildford in 1883. The surrounding area has remained largely rural although there are some large houses within walking distance. It is therefore a quiet place for most of the day but nevertheless enjoys an hourly off-peak service in either direction. In this view, looking towards Guildford, the platforms are deserted and there is a hint of morning mist through the bridge (which was soon to clear leaving a bright sunny day). — Worplesdon Station Credit: Stephen McKay

Pray Heath is a small village located in the county of Surrey, England. Situated within the larger area of Wood, Forest, it is known for its picturesque landscapes and tranquil atmosphere. The village is surrounded by lush greenery and is characterized by its dense woodland, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The village is home to a tight-knit community, with a population of around 500 residents. Pray Heath is known for its quaint cottages and traditional architecture, giving it a charming and timeless feel. The village is also known for its local amenities, including a village hall, a primary school, and a small convenience store.

One of the main attractions in Pray Heath is its extensive network of walking trails and nature reserves. The nearby Wood, Forest is a haven for wildlife, with an abundance of native species and diverse ecosystems. Visitors can explore the woodland trails, taking in the sights and sounds of nature.

In addition to its natural beauty, the village also has a rich historical heritage. The area has evidence of human settlement dating back to the prehistoric era, and there are several archaeological sites of interest nearby. Pray Heath is also located in close proximity to other popular attractions in Surrey, such as historic castles, country estates, and charming market towns.

Overall, Pray Heath offers a serene and idyllic setting, combining natural beauty with a strong sense of community. It is a place where residents and visitors can appreciate the wonders of nature and immerse themselves in the rich history of the area.

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Pray Heath Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.290468/-0.5785322 or Grid Reference SU9955. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Worplesdon Station

Worplesdon station was built between Woking and Guildford in 1883. The surrounding area has remained largely rural although there are some large houses within walking distance. It is therefore a quiet place for most of the day but nevertheless enjoys an hourly off-peak service in either direction. In this view, looking towards Guildford, the platforms are deserted and there is a hint of morning mist through the bridge (which was soon to clear leaving a bright sunny day).

Stephen McKay

Outside Worplesdon Station

Worplesdon station is approached via a short drive leading off Prey Heath Road. At the junction the National Rail sign leans at a jaunty angle.

Stephen McKay

Prey Heath

Prey Heath is bisected by the Woking to Guildford railway line and this is the area to the east of it. A path leads off Prey Heath Road at first in a northerly direction before making a dogleg turn across the heath; this is a convenient point of access from Worplesdon station.

Stephen McKay

Path across Prey Heath

A public footpath heads in a north-easterly direction across this surviving stretch of Surrey heathland.

Stephen McKay

Prey Heath

This is part of the eastern section of the heath, east of the Woking to Guildford railway line. The information board makes the point that the scene is always changing across the year.

Stephen McKay

Path across Prey Heath

Here the path passes through a wooded section of the heath. The gate is probably there for stock control purposes.

Stephen McKay

Path to Havering Farm

This public footpath, effectively an extension of Burdenshot Hill, leads across the stile and then over the Woking to Guildford railway.

Stephen McKay

Railway south of Worplesdon

A Portsmouth to London Waterloo train approaches Worplesdon at speed on the Portsmouth Direct Line.

Stephen McKay

Burdenshot Hill, Worplesdon

Burdenshot Hill is a private road to the north east of Worplesdon village lined with some very large houses. The one in view here is called Oakhanger. From the end of this road a path leads to Worplesdon station.

Stephen McKay

The way to Worplesdon

Motorists are directed down Goose Rye Road to Worplesdon village. Worplesdon was recorded in the Domesday Book as Werpesdune and there is evidence that the area was settled in Roman times; the Goose Rye name is derived from a local farm.

Stephen McKay

Goose Rye Road, Worplesdon

Goose Rye Road passes through a thickly wooded area on its approach to Worplesdon village. In the 19th century this was common heathland used for grazing animals.

Stephen McKay

Path towards Jordan Hill

This footpath heads intriguingly into this stretch of woodland that forms the northern part of the Whitmoor Common Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Stephen McKay

Whitmoor Common

Woodland, part of Whitmoor Common Site of Special Scientific Interest, seen from the track south of Goose Rye Road and Gosling Cottage.

Stephen McKay

Worplesdon Station

A non-stopping London Waterloo to Haslemere train passes through Worplesdon station between Woking and Guildford on the Portsmouth Direct Line.

Stephen McKay

The Jolly Farmer, Worplesdon

It is good to see a pub deep in the Surrey countryside that appears to be thriving. It was built in the mid 18th century and is now a Fuller's house with a beer garden to the rear. It stands adjacent to Whitmoor Common.

Stephen McKay

The Jolly Farmer, Worplesdon - pub sign

The artist for this Fuller's pub sign has chosen a curious image featuring an American tractor built by Case. For many years Case was a major manufacturer of agricultural machinery in the USA but the company did not enter the British market until it acquired David Brown Tractors of Yorkshire in the 1970s - long after the machine featured here would have been a museum piece.

Stephen McKay

Private road across Whitmoor Common

There are a number of private roads across this part of Surrey - private, that is, for motor vehicles - giving access to some of the very large houses in this area.

Stephen McKay