Furnacehouse Copse

Wood, Forest in Sussex Horsham

England

Furnacehouse Copse

Downs Link, near Slinfold A view of the Downs Link path as it approaches Slinfold in West Sussex. The path follows a dismantled railway line. It also forms part of route 223 of the National Cycle Network.

Here, a public footpath crosses the Downs Link path. — Downs Link, near Slinfold Credit: Malc McDonald

Furnacehouse Copse is a picturesque woodland located in Sussex, England. This dense forest covers an area of approximately 100 acres and is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers alike.

The copse is characterized by its diverse range of tree species, including oak, beech, and ash, which create a lush and vibrant green canopy during the summer months. The forest floor is covered with a rich carpet of wildflowers, ferns, and moss, providing a habitat for a variety of small mammals, birds, and insects.

Trails wind their way through the copse, allowing visitors to explore its beauty and tranquility. These paths are well-maintained and suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Along the way, hikers may come across hidden clearings, where they can rest and observe the local wildlife or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

One of the highlights of Furnacehouse Copse is its ancient furnace, which gives the woodland its name. This historic structure dates back to the 17th century and was once used for smelting iron. Today, it serves as a reminder of the area's industrial past and adds an intriguing element to the natural beauty of the copse.

Furnacehouse Copse is easily accessible by car, with a small parking area available nearby. Additionally, there are several picnic spots and benches scattered throughout the woodland, offering visitors the opportunity to relax and soak up the serenity of this enchanting forest.

Overall, Furnacehouse Copse is a captivating woodland that showcases the beauty of Sussex's natural landscape. Whether it is for a leisurely stroll, bird-watching, or simply a peaceful escape from the bustling city, this copse is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

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Furnacehouse Copse Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.089322/-0.41805404 or Grid Reference TQ1033. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Downs Link, near Slinfold

A view of the Downs Link path as it approaches Slinfold in West Sussex. The path follows a dismantled railway line. It also forms part of route 223 of the National Cycle Network. Here, a public footpath crosses the Downs Link path.

Malc McDonald

Double bridge near Rudgwick, West Sussex

The double bridge which crosses the River Arun near Rudgwick is unique in Britain, in having both a brick arch and an iron girder. The brick arch was built to carry a railway line across the river. However, on the far side of the river, the railway would then climb a steep gradient into Rudgwick station. Inspectors from the government's Board of Trade refused permission for the railway to open, as they felt the gradient up to Rudgwick station was too steep. The railway compamny therefore had to rebuild this section of the route with higher embankments, so that the gradient into Rudgwick was less steep. As the railway had been raised to a higher level at this location, the iron girder bridge was installed to carry it across the river. The brick arch has never been used for its intended purpose. The railway opened in 1865 but closed a century later. The railway route now forms part of the Downs Link long distance path, which itself forms part of route 223 of the National Cycle Network.

Malc McDonald

Downs Link, near Rudgwick

The Downs Link path follows a dismantled railway line for almost all of its length. It also forms part of route 223 of the National Cycle Network. Here, there used to be a bridge carrying the railway across the A281 road. The bridge was demolished after the railway closed, and the Downs Link path therefore descends to road level to cross the road. There has been a long-running campaign to reinstate a bridge here. Sadly, a 20-year-old cyclist was killed in 2020 whilst crossing the road at this point.

Malc McDonald