How to Cycle the Downs Link

The Downs Link is a 37-mile (60-kilometer) off-road cycling and walking path that connects the North Downs Way near Guildford in Surrey to the South Downs Way near Shoreham-by-Sea in West Sussex. Designed as a linear green corridor, it offers cyclists a safe, scenic, and traffic-free route through some of Englands most picturesque countryside rolling chalk hills, ancient woodlands, historic villages, and river valleys. Unlike many long-distance trails that demand rugged terrain or technical skill, the Downs Link is remarkably accessible, making it ideal for families, casual riders, and seasoned cyclists alike. Its well-maintained surfaces, gentle gradients, and consistent signage make it one of the most popular long-distance trails in southern England.

Cycling the Downs Link is more than just a physical journey its a cultural and environmental experience. The route passes through the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and the South Downs National Park, offering riders a rare opportunity to traverse two protected landscapes in a single trip. Whether youre planning a day ride, a weekend escape, or a multi-day adventure, understanding how to cycle the Downs Link properly ensures a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to cycling the Downs Link, including practical tips, best practices, essential tools, real-world examples, and answers to frequently asked questions. By the end of this tutorial, youll have all the knowledge needed to plan, prepare for, and complete your ride with confidence.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Route and Its Sections

The Downs Link is divided into three natural segments based on terrain, distance, and points of interest:

• Section 1: Guildford to Dorking (12 miles / 19 km) Begins at the junction of the North Downs Way near Guildfords River Wey, following the old railway line through the gentle valleys of the Surrey countryside. This section is mostly flat, with wide, smooth gravel paths and minimal elevation gain.
• Section 2: Dorking to Horsham (16 miles / 26 km) The longest and most varied stretch. It passes through the historic town of Dorking, climbs gently toward the Greensand Ridge, and descends into the River Arun valley. This section features the most significant elevation changes and several charming villages like Abinger Hammer and St. Marthas Hill.
• Section 3: Horsham to Shoreham-by-Sea (9 miles / 14 km) The final leg winds through the South Downs National Park, crossing the River Adur and passing the historic Shoreham Beach. This section is mostly flat and ends at the coastal trailhead of the South Downs Way.

Understanding these sections helps you plan rest stops, fuel points, and overnight stays. Most riders complete the entire route in one to two days, but its perfectly feasible to break it into three shorter rides over a weekend.

Step 2: Choose Your Direction

The Downs Link can be cycled in either direction from Guildford to Shoreham-by-Sea (north to south) or vice versa. Most riders prefer the north-to-south route because:

• The terrain gradually descends, making pedaling easier on the final stretch.
• You finish at the coast, allowing for a celebratory stop at Shoreham Beach or the seafront promenade.
• Weather patterns in southern England often favor southward travel, with prevailing winds from the west or southwest offering a slight tailwind.

However, cycling south-to-north has its advantages: you begin with the more challenging climbs early in the day when energy levels are high, and you end your ride in the historic market town of Guildford, which has excellent transport links and dining options.

Decide your direction based on your accommodation, transport logistics, and personal preference. Whichever way you choose, the scenery remains equally stunning.

Step 3: Plan Your Start and End Points

For a seamless experience, identify precise start and end locations with parking, public transport, and facilities:

• Start: Guildford The official starting point is at the junction of the North Downs Way and the River Wey, near Guildford Castle. The nearest car park is at Guildford Park & Ride (GU2 7PQ), with frequent bus connections to the town center. Alternatively, take the train to Guildford Station and cycle 1.5 miles to the trailhead via the Wey Navigation path.
• End: Shoreham-by-Sea The endpoint is at the South Downs Way trailhead near Shoreham Beach Car Park (BN43 5DB). This location has ample parking, public toilets, and a caf. Trains from Shoreham Station connect directly to Brighton and London Victoria.

If youre not returning to your starting point, arrange a shuttle service, use public transport, or leave a car at your endpoint. Many cyclists use ride-sharing apps or local bike shops to coordinate drop-offs.

Step 4: Select the Right Bike and Equipment

While the Downs Link is mostly flat and surfaced with compacted gravel or tarmac, the trail is not designed for road bikes. A hybrid, gravel, or cyclocross bike with 3240mm tires is ideal. Mountain bikes work well but are heavier than necessary. Avoid skinny road tires theyre prone to punctures on loose gravel sections.

Essential equipment includes:

• Helmet Required for safety, even on quiet trails.
• Repair kit Spare inner tube, tire levers, mini pump or CO2 inflator, multi-tool.
• Water bottles or hydration pack Carry at least 1.5 liters per person; refill points are limited between Dorking and Horsham.
• Weather-appropriate clothing Layers are key. Even in summer, the South Downs can be windy and cool near the coast.
• Navigation tools Offline maps on your phone (e.g., Komoot or OS Maps app) or a GPS device. Paper maps are a reliable backup.
• Lights and reflective gear Even if you plan to finish before dusk, delays can happen. Always carry front and rear lights.
• Snacks and energy bars Pack high-carb, non-perishable snacks. Dont rely on trailside shops.

Consider a saddle bag or handlebar pack for easy access to essentials. Avoid heavy panniers unless youre camping the trail is best enjoyed with minimal gear.

Step 5: Check Trail Conditions and Weather

Before setting out, verify current trail conditions. The Downs Link is maintained by local councils and the Sustrans charity, but seasonal weather can affect accessibility:

• Rainy season (OctoberMarch) Sections near the River Wey and River Arun can become muddy or flooded. Avoid after heavy rainfall.
• Summer months (JuneAugust) The trail is at its busiest. Early morning rides avoid crowds and heat.
• Winter Some bridges and underpasses may be slippery with frost. Wear grippy soles if you need to walk sections.

Check the official Sustrans website or local Facebook groups for real-time updates. The Sustrans site also offers downloadable trail condition reports.

Step 6: Plan Your Stops and Refreshments

While the Downs Link is largely rural, there are several well-placed villages and towns with cafs, pubs, and shops:

• Guildford Full amenities: supermarkets, bike shops, cafs.
• Dorking The Hole in the Wall caf near the trail is a popular rest stop with excellent coffee and sandwiches.
• Abinger Hammer The Abinger Hammer Inn offers pub food and a shaded garden.
• Horsham A major town with multiple cafs, a Co-op supermarket, and public restrooms.
• Steyning A historic market town with bakeries and ice cream shops.
• Shoreham-by-Sea Seafront cafs, fish and chips, and a beachside promenade.

Plan your stops around mid-morning and mid-afternoon. Dont assume every village has a shop some are small and close early. Always carry extra food and water.

Step 7: Navigate the Trail with Confidence

The Downs Link is well-signed with the official Sustrans National Cycle Network logo a red, white, and blue cycle symbol on a white background. Signs are placed at junctions, but they can be obscured by vegetation in summer.

Key navigation tips:

• Follow the red cycle symbols on white posts. These mark the official route.
• Use your GPS app to overlay the route on a map. Download the offline version before you leave.
• Pay attention to trail markers near bridges and road crossings some junctions are not obvious.
• If you lose the trail, head toward the nearest village and rejoin via the main road. Most sections reconnect within 12 miles.

Do not rely solely on phone GPS signal can be weak in wooded areas. Always carry a printed map or compass as backup.

Step 8: Respect Trail Etiquette and Other Users

The Downs Link is shared by cyclists, walkers, joggers, and horse riders. To ensure a harmonious experience:

• Always give way to pedestrians and horses slow down and announce your presence with a bell or voice.
• Keep to the right-hand side of the path unless overtaking.
• Do not ride at high speed through villages or narrow sections.
• Take all litter with you. There are no bins on most of the route.
• Do not cut corners or create unofficial paths this damages the environment and violates conservation rules.

Respect private property. The trail runs through farmland and woodland with permission. Stay on the designated path.

Step 9: Complete the Ride with a Safe Return

Once you reach Shoreham-by-Sea, celebrate your achievement but dont forget logistics:

• If you left a car at Shoreham, retrieve it.
• If you took a train to Guildford, book your return ticket in advance trains from Shoreham to London are frequent.
• Use the public toilets at Shoreham Beach Car Park before heading to the station.
• Consider a light meal or ice cream at the seafront before departing.

After your ride, clean your bike, inspect for damage, and recharge any devices. Record your journey in a cycling log or app its a great motivator for future adventures.

Best Practices

1. Ride Early to Avoid Crowds and Heat

Weekends and school holidays bring heavy foot and bike traffic, especially between Dorking and Horsham. Starting at 7:00 AM ensures you have the trail to yourself, cooler temperatures, and better light for photography. Youll also beat the midday heat, which can be intense on exposed chalk downland.

2. Pack Light, But Pack Smart

Every extra pound adds up over 37 miles. Use lightweight, waterproof bags. Avoid bulky items like full-size towels or excessive clothing. A small first aid kit, sunscreen, lip balm, and insect repellent are more valuable than extra snacks.

3. Hydrate Proactively

There are only two reliable water refill points between Dorking and Horsham at the Abinger Hammer Inn and Horshams Co-op. Carry a hydration bladder with a 2-liter capacity. Even in mild weather, you can lose over 1 liter of fluid per hour of cycling. Dehydration leads to fatigue and cramps.

4. Use a Bike Computer or App for Tracking

Apps like Komoot, Strava, or Garmin Connect allow you to track your speed, elevation, and route history. Komoot is especially useful for the Downs Link because it offers offline turn-by-turn navigation and highlights points of interest along the route such as historic sites, viewpoints, and wildlife spots.

5. Learn Basic Bike Maintenance

A puncture or broken chain can ruin your ride. Learn how to:

• Replace an inner tube in under 10 minutes.
• Adjust brake pads and gear cables.
• Tighten loose bolts with a multi-tool.

Practice these skills before your trip. Many local bike shops offer free 30-minute maintenance clinics ask for one.

6. Check for Trail Closures and Events

Occasionally, sections of the Downs Link are closed for maintenance, events, or conservation work. For example, the stretch near St. Marthas Hill was closed for two weeks in spring 2023 due to erosion repair. Always check:

• Sustrans.org.uk
• Surrey County Council
• West Sussex County Council

Sign up for email alerts if available.

7. Prepare for Variable Weather

The South Downs are known for sudden weather shifts. Even on a sunny morning, fog or rain can roll in by afternoon. Pack a lightweight, packable rain jacket. Avoid cotton clothing it retains moisture and takes hours to dry. Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics.

8. Travel with a Buddy When Possible

While solo rides are common, riding with a partner increases safety and enjoyment. You can share supplies, motivate each other on tough climbs, and assist in emergencies. If youre riding alone, inform someone of your planned route and estimated return time.

9. Capture the Experience Responsibly

The Downs Link is a protected corridor. Avoid disturbing wildlife, trampling vegetation, or leaving markers. Use a drone only if permitted most sections are within conservation areas where drone use is restricted. Take photos, but leave nature undisturbed.

10. Celebrate Your Achievement

Cycling the entire Downs Link is a significant accomplishment. Take a photo at the endpoint, write a journal entry, or share your experience on social media with

DownsLinkCycling. These moments reinforce motivation and help others plan their own rides.

Tools and Resources

Official Maps and Apps

• Sustrans National Cycle Network Map Free downloadable PDFs and printed maps available at sustrans.org.uk. The map includes elevation profiles and access points.
• Komoot App Offers offline route planning, real-time navigation, and user reviews of trail conditions. Search Downs Link in the app for a pre-loaded route.
• OS Maps (Ordnance Survey) The most detailed topographic map for the UK. Subscription required, but invaluable for off-trail detours or emergency navigation.
• Google Earth Use the 3D terrain view to visualize elevation changes before you ride.

Recommended Bikes

Top models suited for the Downs Link:

• Specialized Sirrus Pro Lightweight hybrid with wide tires and reliable brakes.
• Cannondale Quick CX 3 Gravel-capable with disc brakes and carbon fork.
• Trek FX3 Affordable, durable, and perfect for beginners.
• Specialized Diverge For riders seeking a more performance-oriented gravel bike.

Electric bikes are permitted on the Downs Link and can be a great option for riders with physical limitations or those wanting to cover the route in one long day. Ensure your e-bike has a range of at least 60 miles and carry a spare charger if possible.

Repair and Maintenance Tools

Essential toolkit for the trail:

• Mini pump with pressure gauge (e.g., Topeak Morph)
• 2 spare inner tubes (26 or 700c, depending on bike)
• Tire levers (plastic, not metal)
• Multi-tool with 4mm, 5mm, and 6mm Allen keys, chain tool, and screwdrivers
• Chain lube (in a small bottle apply before you ride)
• Zip ties and duct tape (for emergency repairs)
• First aid kit with blister pads, antiseptic wipes, and pain relief

Accommodation and Camping

For multi-day trips, book accommodation in advance:

• Guildford The White Hart Hotel or Premier Inn.
• Dorking The Fox and Hounds (B&B with bike storage).
• Horsham The Red Lion Hotel or Travelodge.
• Shoreham-by-Sea The Seabank Hotel with sea views.

For campers, the Horsham Camping and Caravanning Club Site (just off the A281) is the closest official campsite to the trail. Wild camping is not permitted along the Downs Link stick to designated sites.

Local Bike Shops

For repairs or rentals:

• Speedy Cycles, Guildford Offers bike rentals, repairs, and route advice.
• Dorking Cycles Located near the trail entrance; provides pump stations and water refill.
• Horsham Bike Hub Sells maps, snacks, and spare parts.
• Shoreham Cycles End-of-trail service point; offers showers and secure bike storage.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Weekend Warrior Two-Day Ride

James, a 38-year-old office worker from Brighton, planned a two-day Downs Link ride to escape routine. He started at Guildford on Saturday morning, rode 18 miles to Dorking, and stayed overnight at the Fox and Hounds. He left at 8:00 AM Sunday, completed the remaining 19 miles to Shoreham by 3:00 PM, and treated himself to fish and chips on the beach. He used Komoot for navigation and carried a hydration pack. I didnt realize how peaceful it would be, he said. The silence between villages, the birdsong it felt like therapy.

Example 2: The Family Adventure

The Carter family parents and two children aged 10 and 12 cycled the first 12 miles from Guildford to Dorking with trailer bikes and a tag-along. They packed picnic lunches, stopped at every viewpoint, and took photos of deer in the woods. We didnt push for speed, said mother Sarah. We wanted them to love the outdoors. Theyre already asking when we can do it again.

Example 3: The Solo Challenge One-Day Completion

Emma, a 29-year-old cyclist from London, completed the entire Downs Link in 5 hours and 42 minutes on a gravel bike. She left Guildford at 5:30 AM, fueled with energy gels, and rode non-stop except for two 10-minute breaks. She finished at Shoreham at 11:12 AM and took the train back to London. I wanted to prove I could do it, she said. But the real reward was the quiet beauty of the South Downs at dawn.

Example 4: The Seasonal Ride Autumn Colors

In October, a group of six friends from Surrey cycled the Downs Link during peak autumn foliage. They rode from Shoreham to Guildford, enjoying golden beech trees, mist over the River Wey, and crisp air. They brought thermoses of tea and stopped at the Abinger Hammer Inn for hot soup. The colors were unreal, said Tom. We felt like we were riding through a painting.

FAQs

Is the Downs Link suitable for beginners?

Yes. The trail is mostly flat, well-marked, and traffic-free. Its ideal for beginners who want to build endurance on a safe, scenic route. Children can ride with trailers or tag-alongs. Avoid rainy days if youre new to cycling on gravel.

Can I ride an electric bike on the Downs Link?

Yes. E-bikes are permitted and encouraged, especially for riders with mobility challenges or those covering the route in a single day. Ensure your battery has sufficient range (minimum 60 miles) and carry a charger if planning to recharge en route.

How long does it take to cycle the Downs Link?

Most riders take 47 hours to complete the full route, depending on fitness, stops, and trail conditions. Beginners may take 79 hours. Elite cyclists can complete it in under 3 hours.

Are there any steep hills?

There are moderate inclines, particularly between Dorking and Horsham, where the trail climbs the Greensand Ridge. The steepest section is near St. Marthas Hill, with a 1:10 gradient over 1.2 miles. Its manageable for most riders with a moderate gear range.

Can I camp along the Downs Link?

No. Wild camping is prohibited. Use designated campsites such as Horsham Camping and Caravanning Club Site or book B&Bs in nearby towns.

Is the trail accessible in winter?

Yes, but conditions vary. Some sections may be muddy or icy after frost. Wear studded tires or use a mountain bike. Avoid after heavy rain the River Wey floodplain becomes impassable.

Are dogs allowed on the Downs Link?

Yes, but they must be kept on a short leash. Clean up after them. Some sections pass through farmland respect livestock and keep dogs under control.

Is there public transport along the route?

Yes. Trains run between Guildford and Horsham, with stops at Dorking and Horsham stations. Buses connect Shoreham to Brighton and London. Use National Rail or Stagecoach for schedules.

Can I do the Downs Link on a road bike?

Technically yes, but its not recommended. The gravel sections can cause punctures, and narrow tires offer poor traction. A hybrid or gravel bike with wider tires (32mm+) is much safer and more comfortable.

Whats the best time of year to cycle the Downs Link?

April to June and September to October offer the best weather mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds. Summer is busy but sunny. Winter is quiet but can be wet and cold.

Conclusion

Cycling the Downs Link is more than a ride its a journey through Englands heartland. From the historic lanes of Surrey to the windswept chalk cliffs of the South Downs, this trail offers a rare blend of tranquility, natural beauty, and accessible adventure. Whether youre a seasoned cyclist or a first-time trail rider, the Downs Link rewards preparation with unforgettable experiences.

By following the steps outlined in this guide from choosing the right bike and planning your stops to respecting the trail and its users you ensure not only a safe and efficient ride but also a meaningful connection with the landscape. The Downs Link is not just a path; its a living corridor of history, ecology, and human resilience.

As you pedal forward, remember: this trail was created not just for movement, but for reflection. Pause at the viewpoints. Listen to the birds. Breathe in the scent of chalk and wild thyme. Let the rhythm of your wheels carry you not just from Guildford to Shoreham, but into a deeper appreciation of the land beneath you.

Now that you know how to cycle the Downs Link, all that remains is to lace up your shoes, check your tires, and hit the trail. The countryside is waiting.