Share

Cox's Walk footbridge reopens

Credit Southwark Council

The iconic Cox’s Walk footbridge has been reopened to the public after extensive restoration funded by Southwark Council to halt its decline.

This much-loved cultural landmark can now be enjoyed by all for years to come, ensuring the continuation of Cox’s Walk, a public highway spanning the former railway cutting. The footbridge provides access to Dulwich and Sydenham Hill Woods at either end, creating a popular circular walking route for visitors to explore the Woods.

Cox’s Walk Footbridge was originally constructed to provide a crossing over the Nunhead to Crystal Palace (High Level) railway line, which opened in 1865 and closed in 1954. The footbridge holds cultural and historic significance, not only for its architectural merit but also as the vantage point from which artist Camille Pissarro painted his depiction of Lordship Lane Station around 1871.

A group of people on a bridge about to cut a big red ribbon

Credit Southwark Council

We are delighted to see the reopening of Cox’s Walk footbridge, a vital link that allows more people to connect with the natural beauty of Sydenham Hill Wood and Dulwich Woods. London Wildlife Trust has been proud to care for this remarkable site for over four decades, ensuring it remains a sanctuary for wildlife and a cherished space for the local community. This restoration ensures that we can continue to support future generations to explore and enjoy this special part of our city’s natural heritage.
David Mooney
London Wildlife Trust

The footbridge plays a vital role in protecting the diverse woodland habitat within the railway cutting below, one of the richest areas of biodiversity in Sydenham Hill Wood. This is the only part of the Wood where sweet woodruff, an indicator of ancient woodland, can be found. The area also features field maple, hazel coppice, and the last remaining ‘railway poplar’—a remnant of the trees once planted alongside the railway. The Trust’s staff and volunteers have dedicated significant effort to maintaining this valuable habitat.

A restored metal footbridge with green lattice railings in a wooded area.

Credit Southwark Council

“We are pleased to see the Cox’s Walk footbridge restored and reopened to the public. This iconic structure is not just an important link between Dulwich and Sydenham Hill Woods but also a cherished part of our borough’s history and natural heritage. Southwark Council is proud to have funded this extensive restoration, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can continue to enjoy the beauty of the Woods and the connectivity of this popular walking route for generations to come. We remain committed to preserving and enhancing Southwark’s green spaces for everyone to explore and enjoy.”
Councillor Portia Mwangangye, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Parks and Young People
Southwark Council

London Wildlife Trust has managed Sydenham Hill Wood since 1982 when it was opened as a nature reserve following a successful campaign to save it from development. Since then, the Trust has cared for the site on behalf of Southwark Council, ensuring it remains a haven for wildlife and a cherished space for the local community.

Family in Sydenham Hill Wood

Credit Arnhel de Serra

“The restoration of Cox’s Walk footbridge is a significant achievement, safeguarding both a vital walking route and an important piece of our borough’s history. This project reflects our commitment to making Southwark greener, where residents and visitors can enjoy nature while appreciating our shared heritage. We’re delighted that this much-loved landmark is once again open for everyone to explore.”
Councillor James McAsh, Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency, Clean Air and Streets
Southwark Council

Related news