Downs Link

Downs Link

A low-level walk between Guildford and Shoreham-by-Sea via the charming countryside of Surrey and West Sussex.

4 to 7 nights
36-41 miles
Easy / Moderate to Moderate

From £550 per person

Find your holiday

About the trail

The Downs Link is named because of the way it joins the North Downs Way and South Downs Way National Trails. This well-connected walking trail is easy to navigate and mostly level throughout. Setting off from Guildford, the path leads through the wildlife-filled woodlands of Surrey and West Sussex. The route then gives way to coastal plains frequented by birds, before arriving at the seaside port of Shoreham-by-Sea.

There are two route options for the first leg of this walk between Guildford and Bramley. The main option (DLM) follows the North Downs Way over St Martha’s Hill, where the Downs Link Trail officially begins. Alternatively, the more accessible option (DLA) bypasses this in favour of a more relaxed walk, free from obstacles and sharp climbs.

Choose your route

  • Downs Link
  • Downs Link - Stile-Free

About this route

5 to 7 nights
36 miles
Easy to Moderate
2nd January to 24th December

From £680 per person

Downs Link - Stile-Free

The Downs Link follows a disused railway line through the landscape between the North and South Downs. Since the trains departed in the 1960s, the embankments have become a green corridor for wildlife. The route connects a range of habitats, passing banks of wildflowers, woodlands, rivers and streams.

The Stile-Free version of the Downs Link follows the Wey South Path and River Wey Navigations for the first stage of the walk, avoiding the ascents onto St Martha’s Hill and Blackheath. This walking holiday is less challenging than the main trail, but is still very scenic and enjoyable.

Upon reaching Bramley, this route is identical to our main route option. You can then expect a relaxed amble through glorious woodland, with plenty of chances to spot a variety of wildlife.

Stile-Free route logo, showing a crossed-out stile over a wall on a walking trail.This is a Stile-Free route, without stiles or other challenging obstacles to contend with. Any climbs or descents are short and/or gentle. It is suitable for beginners, young families and those with mild mobility impairments.

Available tours

Code Tour Duration Difficulty Price per person
DLA0 From Guildford(L) to Shoreham-by-Sea(T) 5 nights, 4 days walking Stile-Free - Moderate £680
DLA1 From Guildford(L) to Shoreham-by-Sea(T) 6 nights, 5 days walking Stile-Free - Easy/Moderate £820
DLA2 From Guildford(L) to Shoreham-by-Sea(T) 7 nights, 6 days walking Stile-Free - Easy £960