Downs Link - Stile-Free
Contours Walking Holidays
Downs Link - Stile-Free
https://www.contours.co.uk/downs-link-stile-free
A low-level walk between Guildford and Shoreham-by-Sea via the charming countryside of Surrey and West Sussex.
From £550 per person
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.
From £680 per person
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.
This holiday option 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 route 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.
As a Stile-Free route, this walking holiday along the Downs Link path has no 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.
| Code | Tour | Duration | Price per person | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DLA0 | From Guildford(L) to Shoreham-by-Sea(T) | 4 days walking | £680 | |
| DLA1 | From Guildford(L) to Shoreham-by-Sea(T) | 5 days walking | £820 | |
| DLA2 | From Guildford(L) to Shoreham-by-Sea(T) | 6 days walking | £960 |
Travel to Guildford(L) where your first night's accommodation will be booked
Guildford(L) to Cranleigh(L). 8.5 miles (13.5km)
Cranleigh(L) to Slinfold. 7 miles (11km)
Slinfold to Henfield(L). 12 miles (19km)
Henfield(L) to Shoreham-by-Sea(T). 9 miles (14km)
Depart from Shoreham-by-Sea(T) after breakfast
This itinerary lists our preferred overnight stops for this tour. Sometimes there may be a shortage of available accommodation in a preferred location, in which case we will transfer you from the trail to your accommodation and back again at no extra charge. Overnight stops marked with a (T) will always require transfers as standard.
Overnight stops marked with an (L) have very limited accommodation, and therefore more often than not will also require a transfer, particularly on bank holidays and weekends. We will use non-transfer accommodation wherever possible.
The daily mileages quoted are average trail miles only and do not include the distance from the trail to your accommodation. We do not expect you to have to travel more than a mile from the trail to your accommodation in most cases; should your accommodation be further than this, transfers will be provided as standard if practical. A very limited number of stops will require you to travel on foot up to two miles off the trail, however these instances will be clearly communicated to you if applicable.
Further transfers may also be required due to some accommodations having a two-night minimum booking policy, especially at weekends.
Below are the additional costs that may apply depending on your requirements. Dog-friendly tours are subject to a Daily Dog Charge, which will be listed below if applicable. Our standard prices per person are based upon two people sharing a room; if you are on your own, or are part of a group but require a room of your own, then the Solo Traveller or Single Supplements apply respectively:
You can add rest days at any of the overnight stops:
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Keeping an eye out for a variety of beautiful wildflowers and elusive animals, including butterflies, birds and small mammals.
Seeing the scenery change as you traverse the Weald, the naturally-formed basin that separates the North and South Downs.
Passing by a range of intriguing historic landmarks, including Guildford Boathouse, Baynard’s Station, West Grinstead Station, Bramber Castle and Shoreham Airport.
You can add rest days at any of the overnight stops:
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To find out more about the weather forecast for your chosen holiday's general location, please see the following websites:
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