Downs Link
The Downs Link is a 59.1km path linking the North Downs to the South Downs through the counties of Surrey & Sussex in South East England. The path can be used by pedestrians, bicyclists and horse riders.
Route & History
Most of the path follows two abandon railways, the Cranleigh Line and the Steyning Line. These railways were closed in the 1960s in the Beeching Axe. The former railways were purchased by the local councils in 1974 where the routes could be used by the public for walking. In 1984 the local authorities worked together and established a 48km long path. The path has been extended over time and now is a continuous 59km route with only a few sections using residential streets.
Downs Link Media
The Downs Link crosses the River Arun on the upper deck of the double bridge south of Rudgwick station
A plaque at Baynards station with the logo of the Downs Link and the year of opening, 1984
The Downs Link passing the disused Cranleigh Line platforms at Christ's Hospital station
The Downs Link at West Grinstead station
Cranleigh station in 1957
The bricked-up southern portal of Baynards Tunnel
Looking southwards along the Downs Link at the northern end of the Wappingthorne estate: The path turns to the right to avoid a section of former track bed in private ownership.
The Downs Link bridge over the River Wey
The approach to the A281 road crossing from the south in 2025
