Weekender: The Downs Link
Start/finish: Guildford station (joining the Downs Link at Peasmarsh) to the beach at Shoreham-by-Sea
Maps: OS Landrangers 186, 187, 198
Ride length: 63.1km (39 miles)
Climbing: 270m going south or 310m going north
Bike type: Any except road bikes
Ride level: Beginner
The Downs Link ranks as one of the best beginner- and child-friendly routes in the south-east. Starting in the Surrey Hills National Landscape, it passes through the Low Weald, then under the shadow of the South Downs before arriving at the coast.
It’s an example of how to use disused rail lines (the Cranleigh and Steyning lines) to the benefit of locals and visitors. This green highway is largely flat and traffic free, with much of the northern half seeming more like a track through a wilderness corridor, while the southern half begins to open up to vast views of the South Downs and the lure of the sea beyond.
It’s also an example of the fractured way our cycle highways are managed. While it is all rideable, some sections are noticeably better cared for and more weather resistant. If the plan is to take younger riders, then you’ll have a better time in the summer months when the winter muck has dried up.
In theory it starts at St Martha’s Church on top of the North Downs Way. Unless you enjoy steep starts and technical descents, start in Guildford and join the Downs Link in Peasmarsh.
Over the years, more and more cycle-friendly cafés and businesses are opening along its length, proving the benefit of the pedalling pound in rural communities. This makes it a delightful and easy day ride or short tour. Just don’t forget your towel and costume for a dip at journey’s end!
1. Guildford
The county town of Surrey, which has repeatedly tried to be designated a city, famously features in HG Wells cycling novella, the Wheels of Chance. Many features mentioned remain, like the cobbled high street and castle. Motor traffic can be heavy. Careful navigation is required to exit this less-than-cycle- friendly town.
2. NCN 22 steps
You can follow the canal out of Guildford but most will ride NCN 22 and encounter steps near the pumping station in Shalford. Good news: the council has approved campaigners' plans for this to be fixed. For now, push along the pavement by the A281 at St Mary’s Church, rejoining the NCN just before the Dolphin pub.
3. Bramley and Wonersh Station
The first of several former stations you pass, this one has a more tragic history than most. During World War II a train was machine gunned and bombed, killing the driver, the guard and several passengers. The village has a train-orientated playground, two pubs, a café, a shop and a butcher with freshly baked snacks. So it’s ideal for a refreshment stop.
4. The Wey and Arun Canal
Along the way (excuse the pun) between Guildford and Cranleigh you’ll frequently glimpse the River Wey. The length between Bramley and Cranleigh has seen much done by a volunteer body, the Wey and Arun Canal Trust, to restore and open its 23-mile course through Surrey and Sussex to the public.
5. The Milk Churn and Firebird Brewing
Just north of Rudgwick, after the only climb (and steep descent), stop for cheese on toast and craft beer at this converted farm site. The Milk Churn serves locally made speciality cheddar, Sussex Charmer. Firebird’s range of beers can be decanted into a growler for easy carrying.
6. Partridge Green
Stop off for lunch and the playground at the Partridge or grab a quick bite from Mary’s Café (formerly where Stan’s Shack was). It’s at this point that the avenue of trees you’ve ridden down recedes and the South Downs begin to dominate. The different scenery makes a welcome change!
7. Shoreham-By-Sea
Shoreham was a settlement before the Romans arrived. It is reached at the end of a wide multi-user path that follows the River Adur and its mudflats. The imposing chapel of Lancing College, where novelist Evelyn Waugh went to school, sits prominently on the far bank as you ride in. Head for the shingle beach if you fancy a dip.
