Downs Link Cranleigh to Baynards Station

We put our bikes on the car, and drove to Cranleigh to join the Downs Link, which is "a traffic free route from Guildford to the seaside". There are pictures of smooth, wide paths for cycling and it's described as an easy route.

The reality was somewhat different. Narrow paths were overgrown with nettles on both sides; the track was mostly stony, with the kind of loose stones that can turn a bike wheel; and right after Baynards Station (now a private residence and off limits to the public) the trail peters out. 

We met an engaging couple of cyclists who were both retired railway men on a day out. They explained that the tunnel after Baynards Station had collapsed, and there were various tracks across the top of the former tunnel. You just have to find your own way to rejoin the main trail.

Given the narrowness of the trails and the abundant nettles, we decided we'd cycled far enough.

We were passed by the railway men as we sat eating our snack bars, then later we passed them as they had their tea. They were far more prepared than us, with a small gas burner and a kettle so they could have a fresh cup of tea! I think meeting them was probably the best part of our journey.

Neil would like to explore other parts of the Downs Link at some point. I think I may just pass on that.