Sussex Downs Link to South Downs Walk

This easy 9-mile walk follows the Downs Link long distance track from the South Coast via Shoreham Airport, Lancing College, and the ancient Sussex villages of Bramber and Steyning, with castles and Norman churches. We first walk from Shoreham on Sea to Shoreham Airport via the coastal path. Shoreham Airport is an Art Deco gem and has been featured in many period films including several Poirot episodes. Stop for coffee at the airfield café with great views of the airport landings and departures, the Neo-Gothic Lancing College and the South Downs. We then join the Downs Link Path which follows a former railway route alongside the River Adur. We will visit the Saxon church at St Botolph's with its medieval wall paintings. We arrive at Bramber which has a Norman Castle on a hill with great views over the region. St Mary's House is a preserved manor which was a pilgrims' lodging and is open for visitors. We continue to the historic town of Steyning with independent shops, Norman churches, and tea shops for tiffin before buses back to Shoreham.
Refreshments
Café at start, lots of choice on route. Option to bring packed lunch as picnic stops midway.
Travel
Trains to Shoreham on Sea from Victoria, stops at Clapham Junction. Best deal is open return to Shoreham with railcard. Aim to take 9:46am service from Victoria. Free parking near start point.
Start
11:10am outside Shoreham on Sea Station, postcode BN43 5WX
£4 meet up fee on the day. A good knowledge of English history is required for event.