The Downs Link: Shoreham to Horsham Greenway
North to South Downs railway trail, Adur valley, and Sussex Weald
Distance: 36 km (22.4 miles) | Estimated Duration: 2.5 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Shoreham-by-Sea Station | Finishing Point: Christ's Hospital / Horsham Station
📥 Download Free GPX Route File (Garmin, Wahoo, Strava, Komoot)
Ride Overview & Terrain
The Downs Link is one of Southern England's premier off-road long-distance trails. This route follows the Sussex section from the coastal mouth of the River Adur at Shoreham-by-Sea, heading north beneath Bramber Castle, through Henfield and Partridge Green, passing the restored Victorian signal box at West Grinstead station, and concluding at Christ's Hospital station near Horsham.
A classic multi-use off-road greenway linking the South Downs coast to the Sussex Weald along two historic disused railway lines.
Travel & Getting There with Your Bike
By Train: Southern Railway train from Victoria to Shoreham-by-Sea. Return directly on the Arun Valley line from Christ's Hospital or Horsham to Victoria. (Nearest station: Shoreham-by-Sea Station (Start) / Christ's Hospital Station (End), travel time: 1h 10m from London Victoria to Shoreham; return from Christ's Hospital (55m to Victoria)).
By Car & Parking: Cycle-friendly parking available near the start point.
Cyclist Coffee Stops, Cafes & Pubs
Recommended cyclist-friendly cafes and refreshment stops along The Downs Link: Shoreham to Horsham Greenway:
- ☕ Stan's Bike Shack, Partridge Green: Popular refreshment stop for cyclists.
- ☕ The Old Post Office Tearoom, Henfield: Popular refreshment stop for cyclists.
Cycling Tips & Route Advice
- Traffic-free former railway ballast path; best for gravel, hybrid, or mountain bikes.
- Level gradients throughout, making it an enjoyable endurance ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance, duration, and difficulty of The Downs Link: Shoreham to Horsham Greenway?
The Downs Link: Shoreham to Horsham Greenway is a 36 km (22.4 miles) taking approximately 2.5 hours, graded Moderate. Starts at Shoreham-by-Sea Station and finishes at Christ's Hospital / Horsham Station.
How do I get to The Downs Link: Shoreham to Horsham Greenway by train?
Southern Railway train from Victoria to Shoreham-by-Sea. Return directly on the Arun Valley line from Christ's Hospital or Horsham to Victoria. (Nearest station: Shoreham-by-Sea Station (Start) / Christ's Hospital Station (End), travel time: 1h 10m from London Victoria to Shoreham; return from Christ's Hospital (55m to Victoria)).
Where can I park near the start of The Downs Link: Shoreham to Horsham Greenway?
Cycle-friendly parking available near the start point.
More Scenic UK Cycle Rides
Olympic Box Hill Loop • The Crab and Winkle Way • The Windsor Castle Ride • The Kent Castles Loop