Downs Link: Shoreham to Henfield

The Downs Link provides a bridleway link between two trails: joining the South Downs Way National Trail, from the point where it passes through Botolphs, north of Shoreham-by-Sea to the North Downs Way National Trail at St Martha’s Hill, west of Guildford. If you have not yet attempted a long-distance walk, and are unsure of your abilities, the Downs Link provides an ideal choice for a first foray. The route is well waymarked, using signposts adorned with the ‘two-tiered bridge’ logo. There are plenty of ‘escape’ routes to and from well-placed parking areas, and reasonable access using public transport. You will also come across a number of pubs, conveniently spaced and within easy reach of the main route.

The Downs Link begins in Old Shoreham in the northwest corner of Shoreham-by-Sea not far from the roar of the A27 and to the south of the South Downs Way. Picnic tables and an information board beside a bridge over the River Adur, just to the west of the Red Lion Inn, mark the starting point. Do not cross the bridge but strike north along the river and under the A27, with Arundel’s Catholic cathedral providing a dramatic view away to the left. After approximately 2.5 miles (4km) the route briefly joins the South Downs way, crossing the river by a footbridge. Continue along the left bank of the Adur, veering away from it on the South Downs Way as the Adur bends to the right. This point is identified on the map as Botolphs, now no more than an isolated church and a handful of houses. The archaeological evidence in surrounding fields suggests that this was once a thriving community, brought down, like so many other lost villages, by a combination of the Black Death, famine and a general decline in prosperity. The tiny church retains features of its Saxon origins, including a chancel arch and a window in the south wall of the nave. Leave the South Downs Way by turning off right, as clearly indicated by a signpost, to walk along a fairly straight track.

Cross the Bramber bypass and turn left along a gravel track on a wide grass verge. At a roundabout, follow Castle Lane, opposite. Bramber Castle, to the right, deserves a detour. Having walked 500yds (460m) along Castle Lane, which becomes Roman Road. Turn right into King’s Stone Avenue. This ends at a junction with King’s Barn Lane. To visit Steyning, a delightful village, turn left.

To continue the walk, turn right. After about 0.5 miles (800m), a bridge takes the road across the line of the old railway, here restored to farm use and available for walkers and riders. Shortly, go ahead along Wyckham Lane. After Wyckham Dale Farm, the track climbs gently; the only significant incline on the Sussex section of the route.

After another 200yds (183m), turn right along a track, which brings you back to the old railway. Turn left along the track bed. The next 2 miles (3km) is the most open section of the whole route, through the flat and wide Adur valley. Cross the river at Stretham Manor, near the point where the Romans, in the 1st century AD, also established a river crossing.

On approaching Henfield, the old railway crosses a track and enters a deep-ish cutting. For a short distance the line of the railway is occupied by a housing estate, appropriately called ‘Beechings’. Use Station Road, a few yards to the east along Lower Station Road, to reach the Cat and Canary pub. A right turn here takes you into the centre of Henfield. It is a small but bustling community, with food shops, accommodation and a bus service to Brighton or Horsham.