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Centurion Way

Centurion Way

The Centurion Way is an 11km (6.8 miles) cycling and walking path between Chichester, Lavant and West Dean.

It follows the old dismantled Chichester to Midhurst railway line, which was fully closed by  1991. The name is based on the fact that the path crosses the course of a Roman road.

The Centurion Way provides a safe and sustainable link for walkers and cyclists between Chichester and the heart of the South Downs National Park.

Starting in Chichester (near Bishop Luffa School) the route currently finishes at West Dean.

Led by the South Downs National Park Authority working with a range of partners and landowners, the route is currently being extended from West Dean to Cocking to link up with the 100-mile long South Downs Way National Trail.

This is a complex project that will take several years to complete, but it’s hoped the extension will be finished by the end of 2026.

Please click on the tab for the Frequently Asked Questions for updates on the work.

Getting to the Centurion Way

The Centurion Way connects with the South Coast Cycle Route at Fishbourne, where cyclists can continue westwards to visit Fishbourne Roman Palace and Bosham. Northwards, the route continues to West Dean House and Gardens and the Weald and Downland Open Air Museum at Singleton.

The 60 bus runs every 20 minutes between the start and finish. You can view timetables on the Traveline website.

The route is mostly flat or slightly hilly.

For more information and to plan your walk or cycle check out the Centurion Way leaflet.

Latest project update

There will be a temporary closure of the steps and wheeling ramp, next to West Dean School, from Monday, January 29 to Thursday, February 29.

It will mean a short section of the Centurion Way will be closed during the works.

A diversion is in place, via Bridleway 457 & 455 or the paved path adjacent to the A286, and access to West Dean village is not affected.

The temporary closure will enable construction of a brand-new continuous access ramp for all.

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"The Downs...too much for one pair of eyes, enough to float a whole population in happiness."