Houghton Bridge is a fantastic little self contained gateway to the South Downs with everything you need for a day or two of adventure. It’s in between Amberley and Houghton in West Sussex and also happens to be the home of Amberley train station on the main line to London and the coast. From here, footpaths and cycle routes span out giving you almost endless miles to explore.
A little history
As you might have guessed, there is a bridge here, across the River Arun. It’s Grade II listed and was built in 1875 in Medieval style. You’ll also spot the Toll House on the corner, built in 1813 to collect tolls on the new road from Storrington and Balls Hut near Slindon. There’s a great little information board outside that gives you the cost of the tolls!
Just down the road in Houghton itself, you’ll find the George and Dragon pub, which claims to be one of the oldest pubs in Sussex (with parts dating back to the 13th century). It is also believed that it was a stop-off point of the future King Charles II on his escape to France in 1651.
North of Houghton Bridge is the village of Amberley which is known for its picture postcard looks, thatched roofs, and castle (now a prestigious hotel). But if it’s history you want, you’re best off popping into the Amberley Working Museum just north of the bridge which has a fantastic number of collections.
Your gateway to the South Downs
Houghton Bridge is on the South Downs Way, as well as being close to Monarch’s Way, Wey South Path, the West Sussex Literary Trail and a network of other footpaths and bridlepaths.
If you’re tackling a section of the South Downs Way, you’ll be rewarded with fabulous views whichever way you go (after a climb, of course). To the west you can walk to Bignor Hill. From here you’re not far from Bignor Roman Villa, and legend has it you might also see a dragon as according to folklore one had its lair on the hill – much to the chagrin of the villagers below.
If you walk east, you have a fabulous stretch of Downs that will take you all the way to Washington. Alternatively, you can walk south to Arundel or north to Amberely Wild Brooks, a haven for birdlife and a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
And if that isn’t enough, you can hire e-bikes, bikes and boats from Riverside South Downs (which is also a café), and if you want to make a weekend of it, you can stay in one of the riverside lodges.
Refuel at Riverside
Whether you’ve been exploring the Downs or mucking about on the river, it’s always good to have somewhere to refuel. Luckily, on one side of the road ay Houghton Bridge is The Bridge Inn (a traditional pub) and The Boathouse. The Boathouse is run by the well-known London chef, Jasper Gorst, and prides itself on its Mediterranean inspired menu. It’s right on the river. On the other side of the road is Riverside South Downs where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea. They have seating on the decking also right on the river banks.
For a tiny little place, Houghton Bridge packs an impressive punch, and has everything you need for a getaway spent exploring the great outdoors of Sussex.
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