Surrey boardwalk named Britain's favourite path

Thursley National Nature Reserve covers 325 hectares

A Surrey boardwalk which was destroyed by a wildfire has been voted Britain's favourite path in a competition by walking charity The Ramblers.

Thursley Common boardwalk in Elstead was nominated by Michelle Presley, who grew up walking in the area.

Over 600 paths were nominated across England, Wales and Scotland, shortlisted by judges down to eight and then voted on by the public.

Ms Presley said: "It might be one of the underdogs, but it's a little hidden gem."

The boardwalk was destroyed by a fire in May 2020 which spread through more than 20 hectares of woodland.

"I want the people who put so much into protecting and conserving Thursley Common to be recognised," said Ms Presley.

"I just loved the way the whole community came together after the fire to bring it back."

The 1.3km (0.8 mile) boardwalk is part of Thursley National Nature Reserve which is managed by Natural England.

James Giles, from Natural England, said: "I'm delighted that the boardwalk is being celebrated by the public and recognised as a special place to enjoy the countryside."

The Ramblers ran the competition hoping to shine a spotlight on lesser-known paths that are loved by local communities.

Jack Cornish, head judge, said the path was "picture-perfect" with a "powerful story behind it".

The shortlisted eight paths included The Pennine Way in the Midlands, Hafren Forest in Wales and The Clyde Walkway in Scotland.

Ms Presley will receive a Cotswold Outdoor voucher for her nomination and see the path featured on a billboard next year.

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