Background: Between 1816 & 1872 the Wey & Arun Junction Canal formed the final link in a chain of inland waterways connecting London to the English Channel; this walk introduces participants to the northernmost section of the former canal and the railways (defunct or still operating) that took its trade.   

Description of walk: A 2.5 mile circular walk, mostly segregated from motor traffic, beginning and ending at the lay-by. The route includes part of the alignment of the former Guildford-Horsham railway line (Wey-South and Downs Link paths).   Led by Alan Johnson of WACT.  Cost: £5 (cash on the day please) - pre-booking essential - maximum of 20. Please email meetings@sihg.org.uk. to reserve your places(s). All proceeds will be donated to the Wey and Arun Canal Trust (see www.weyarun.org.uk)

Meeting point:  Large lay-by at junction of Trunley Heath Road with A281 Horsham Road, Shalford GU4 8EQ (Free parking ). c 15 mins wak from Shalford station. (what3words address:  ///saving.spin.income; Grid reference:TQ 000462)

​Any specific walk / conditions issues: As the route is largely on footpaths, towpath and footpath/cycleway which can be muddy, walking boots or stout walking shoes are essential. The route includes a handful of short ascents and descents including a descent of approx.30 earthen steps and an ascent of 14 steps.  Well-behaved dogs on leads welcome.

Travel advice:  in large lay-by alongside junction of A281 Horsham Road and Trunley Heath Road. Bus service 53 Guildford-Ewhurst runs south along Horsham Road, Shalford, including approximately hourly on Sundays. Leave bus at Poplar Road, Shalford, and walk south to lay-by meeting point (enter from Trunley Heath Road). Shalford rail station is 1km north via Horsham Road (trains from Reading via Guildford or Gatwick via Redhill)