The Downs Link is a 37-mile (59 km) trail connecting the North Downs Way at Guildford in Surrey with the South Downs Way near Shoreham-by-Sea in West Sussex. Following former railway lines through quiet countryside, it provides a unique way to link two of South East England’s best-known National Trails.
Perfect for relaxed walking holidays or outdoor adventures, the route is mostly flat and well-surfaced, making it suitable for families, leisure walkers, and even cyclists. From riverside paths to historic towns and the open South Downs, the Downs Link offers a gentle but rewarding journey through southern England’s landscapes.
Guildford to Cranleigh
Leaving the North Downs Way, the trail follows the old railway south from Guildford. Riverside paths and open countryside lead to Cranleigh, England’s largest village.
Cranleigh to Steyning
Quiet farmland and wooded sections give way to the rolling countryside of the Low Weald. Near Steyning, the trail rises towards the South Downs National Park, offering wider views.
Steyning to Shoreham-by-Sea
The final stretch follows the River Adur through the South Downs to Shoreham-by-Sea, where the trail meets the South Downs Way and ends at the English Channel.
The Downs Link is well-served by towns and villages along its length. Bases include Guildford, Cranleigh, Steyning, and Shoreham-by-Sea, with a mix of hotels, pubs-with-rooms, B&Bs, and guesthouses.
Thanks to good rail access at both ends, it’s an easy option for weekend walking breaks or as part of a longer self-guided holiday linking the North Downs Way and South Downs Way.
