What is the Poddle?

The Wey & Arun Canal Trust, which is working hard to restore 23 miles of navigable waterway linking the River Arun at Pallingham to the River Wey at Shalford, organises a sponsored walk each year. This is the Trust’s most important fundraising event and makes a vital contribution to pushing the restoration effort forward. 

This year’s Poddle is on Sunday 2nd June. We are going to walk from the Snoxhall Community Centre, Cranleigh, to the Arbuthnot Hall at Shamley Green where a selection of snack foods, fruit, and hot and cold drinks will be offered. Draft cask ale from the local Firebird brewery will also be available to buy for the over 18's. The walk continues back to Snoxhall Fields in the afternoon. For those who would prefer a shorter walk you can choose to walk in the morning or afternoon only. Morning and afternoon refreshment stops will be provided at Run Common and Smithwood Common.

Registration is now open (click here)

Who can do it?

Almost anyone, with the exception of the very young, infirm and pushchairs as the walk covers stiles, a few steps and some inclines. Dogs are welcome especially if sponsored!

Enquiries to events@weyandarun.co.uk if you have any queries or would like to receive a sponsor form.

Download a Sponsorship Form & details

Where, when, how? 

The start is at Snoxhall Community Centre, Knowle Lane, Cranleigh GU6 8JW. Knowle Lane is off Cranleigh High Street - the turning is opposite the Richard Onslow pub. Turn left if you are coming from the Horsham/Ewhurst direction, right if you are coming from Guildford or the A281. Follow Knowle Lane for 300 yards and you will see a sign on the left for Snoxhall Fields. Turn here and follow the lane to the Community Centre.

There is car parking at the Centre but if spaces run out then parking is free on Sundays in Cranleigh public car parks - the nearest is Village Way (GU6 8AF, follow signs for Cranleigh Leisure Centre).

Arrive between 9am and 10:30 to check in, receive your Route Guide and start walking the whole 12 mile route or only the morning route.

The Route

The morning walk is about 6 miles and passes along sections of canal at Elmbridge, Whipley, Run Common, Rooks Hill and the restored Birtley length featuring the two new lifting bridges. Lunch is at Shamley Green. The afternoon walk is via picturesque country footpaths, Smithwood Common and the Downs Link from Rowly for the walk back to Snoxhall Community Centre for a well deserved cup of tea and cake (about 6 miles).

If walking isn’t for you, why not ... 

• Sponsor the Last Man, or just want to support the Poddle? Click to make a donation 

• Make cakes for the walkers?

• Help on the day as a marshal or on a refreshment point?

Please contact the Poddle co-ordinator for more information or to offer assistance - all help is greatly appreciated.

Walking as a member of a 'Team'

Did you know we offer 50/50 sponsorship? If you enter as a ‘Team’ and raise more than £250 sponsorship (minimum £25 each) we are happy to split funds equally with another charity or organisation of your choosing. If you or your organisation wish to take part as a team please register and complete individual sponsor forms as usual but please also complete a ‘group’ form (download here, or contact the organiser).