There’s something quietly magical about stumbling across ancient ruins in the middle of your country walk.
Tucked beside the gentle flow of the River Wey, Newark Priory feels like a secret waiting to be discovered.
Just a short drive from us here at Gorse Hill Hotel, its certainly worth the visit.
Sometimes, the best discoveries are the quietest ones.
From AD 597 when St Augustine reintroduced Christianity to England, right through to the reign of Henry VIII, monasteries became a defining feature of life across the British Isles.
Settlements of religious communities were built during this time.
These housed monks, canons who were priests, and sometimes lay brothers.
They lived together in shared communities shaped by prayer, work and discipline.
Historians believe more than 700 monasteries were founded in England, and Newark Priory was one of them.
Its religious life came to an end during the reign of King Henry VIII, when monasteries across the country were dissolved.
What remains today is protected as a Grade I listed ancient monument, recognising its national historic importance.
There is something powerful about ruins. They leave space for imagination. They invite you to picture what once stood there.
It's worth noting that you cannot walk directly up to the ruins themselves, as Newark Priory sits on private land.
However, it can be clearly viewed while walking along the River Wey between Pyrford and Ripley.
And in many ways, seeing it from across the meadow only adds to its mystery.
If you are arriving by car you can park on Newark Lane, GU23 6DP.
There is a small car park here which gives you a convenient starting point for the riverside walk towards the priory.
From there it's a gentle stroll along the footpath with open views across the fields towards the stone remains.
Wear comfortable footwear especially after wet weather, as paths can become muddy.
Check the forecast before setting off. And most importantly, give yourself time to wander rather than rush.
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We hope this article has inspired you to lace up your walking boots and head out for a peaceful riverside stroll to spot the priory in the distance.
But why stop there? If you are planning to explore more of the county, take a look at our guide to “Things To Do In Surrey” for even more inspiration and ideas to make the most of your visit.
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Yes, it is free to visit. You cannot walk directly up to the ruins, as the site sits on private land. However, you can clearly spot the landmark from a distance while walking along the River Wey between Pyrford and Ripley.
You can head to a small car park on Newark Lane, GU23 6DP. From there, it's a short countryside walk along the river to reach viewing points of the priory.
Newark Priory is beautiful year round! Spring brings wildflowers. Summer offers lush greenery along the River Wey. Autumn adds warm colours across the fields. Winter creates striking silhouettes against open skies.