Baystone Copse

Wood, Forest in Sussex Horsham

England

Baystone Copse

Downs Link near Horsham The Downs Link walking and cycling path near Horsham in West Sussex. The path follows a dismantled railway line. It also forms part of route 223 of the National Cycle Network. — Downs Link near Horsham Credit: Malc McDonald

Baystone Copse is a picturesque woodland located in the county of Sussex, England. Spanning an area of approximately 100 acres, this enchanting forest is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The copse is situated in close proximity to the village of Baystone, which adds to its accessibility and charm.

The woodland is predominantly composed of native deciduous trees, including towering oaks, beeches, and birches. Their lush green foliage provides a stunning canopy overhead, filtering the sunlight and creating a tranquil atmosphere on the forest floor. The forest is particularly captivating during the autumn months when the leaves transform into a vibrant palette of reds, yellows, and oranges.

Baystone Copse is interlaced with a network of well-maintained walking trails, allowing visitors to explore its beauty at their own pace. These paths wind through the forest, meandering past babbling brooks and small clearings, providing opportunities for peaceful reflection and wildlife observation. The copse is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, with sightings of deer, foxes, and various bird species being common.

Aside from its natural beauty, Baystone Copse also holds historical significance. The woodland is believed to have been in existence for centuries, with traces of ancient settlements and burial mounds discovered within its borders. Archaeological finds suggest that the area was occupied during the Iron Age and Roman period, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the copse's allure.

Overall, Baystone Copse offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its idyllic setting, rich biodiversity, and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for those seeking solace in nature.

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Baystone Copse Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.058964/-0.3723545 or Grid Reference TQ1430. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Downs Link near Horsham

The Downs Link walking and cycling path near Horsham in West Sussex. The path follows a dismantled railway line. It also forms part of route 223 of the National Cycle Network.

Malc McDonald

Public footpath near Horsham

A public footpath near Horsham in West Sussex.

Malc McDonald

Downs Link, near Slinfold

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

Malc McDonald

Train at Christ's Hospital station, near Horsham

A train passing through Christ's Hospital station, near Horsham in West Sussex. The train is a Class 377 "Electrostar" electric multiple unit. The railway here is electrified using the third rail system.

Malc McDonald

Christ's Hospital station, near Horsham

The entrance to Christ's Hospital railway station, near Horsham in West Sussex. The single-storey station building dates from the 1970s. It replaced the original station which was much larger and more grand.

Malc McDonald

Converted goods shed, Christ's Hospital station, near Horsham

The Old Goods Shed at Christ's Hospital station, near Horsham in West Sussex. As its name suggests, this building was originally a goods shed built for railway use. Having been derelict for a number of years, it has recently been redeveloped as affordable housing.

Malc McDonald

Downs Link at Christ's Hospital, near Horsham

A recently-opened section of the Downs Link, passing beneath the Arun Valley Line just north of Christ's Hospital station. The path also forms part of route 223 of the National Cycle Network.

Malc McDonald

Disused platform at Christ's Hospital station, near Horsham

This platform at Christ's Hospital railway station was used by trains to and from Guildford, until the line closed in the 1960s. The trackbed alongside the platform now forms part of the Downs Link path, which is also part of route 223 of the National Cycle Network.

Malc McDonald

Downs Link at Christ's Hospital, near Horsham

The Downs Link path at Christ's Hospital, near Horsham. The path also forms part of route 223 of the National Cycle Network.

Malc McDonald

Former railway platform at Christ's Hospital, near Horsham

A disused platform at Christ's Hospital railway station, near Horsham in West Sussex. This platform was on the line to and from Guildford, which closed in the 1960s. Two platforms at Christ's Hospital station remain open, served by trains on the Arun Valley Line between Horsham and the Sussex coast. The Downs Link path makes use of the former trackbed alongside the platform. The path also forms part of route 223 of the National Cycle Network.

Malc McDonald

Downs Link near Horsham

A bridge carrying a road over the Downs Link path near Horsham. The path also forms part of route 223 of the National Cycle Network.

Malc McDonald

Christ's Hospital railway station (site), Sussex

Opened in 1902 as "Christ's Hospital (West Horsham)" by the London Brighton & South Coast Railway on the line from Horsham to Havant, and Horsham to Guildford, this was the branch platform to Guildford which closed in 1965. View east towards Horsham. Two of the main line platforms are still in use, out of view to the right - see TQ1429 : Christ's Hospital railway station, Sussex. These Guildford line platforms were restored in 2020 as part of the Downs Link footpath.

Nigel Thompson

Sheep and Blackthorn

In the field crossed by footpath 1628/3 north of Christ's Hospital.

Robin Webster

Footbridge on path 1628/3

The junction with footpath 1637 is just to the right of the view - this path can just be seen climbing out of the gill.

Robin Webster

Shelley's Wood across an arable field

N Chadwick

Shelley's Wood

N Chadwick

Shaded Downs Link

The Downs Link is a 37-mile (59 km) footpath and bridleway linking the North Downs Way Link at St. Martha's Hill in Surrey with the South Downs Way Link near Steyning in West Sussex and on via the Coastal Link to Shoreham-by-Sea. Most of the route follows two dismantled railway lines, both closed by the Beeching cuts in the 1960s. The Shoreham-On-Sea to Christ’s Hospital line and the Christ’s Hospital to Shalford Junction line. The link opened in 1984. Cycle Route 223 follows the Downs link from Guildford to Shoreham. The logo for the walk is the viaduct across the River Arun TQ0932 : Double Viaduct over the River Arun. A full history of the Cranleigh line (Christ’s Hospital to Shalford Junction) can be read at Link