The footbridge serves as an essential link in Cox’s Walk, a well-used public pathway connecting Dulwich and Sydenham Hill Woods.
The historic Cox’s Walk footbridge has officially reopened following an extensive restoration funded by Southwark Council. This much-loved landmark, which spans a former railway cutting, is once again accessible to the public, ensuring that generations to come can enjoy its cultural and historical significance.
The footbridge serves as an essential link in Cox’s Walk, a well-used public pathway connecting Dulwich and Sydenham Hill Woods. By reopening, it restores a popular circular walking route, allowing visitors to explore one of London’s most cherished natural spaces.
Originally built to provide a crossing over the Nunhead to Crystal Palace (High Level) railway line, which operated between 1865 and 1954, Cox’s Walk Footbridge has long held cultural and architectural significance. The bridge’s historic importance is further enhanced by its association with celebrated artist Camille Pissarro, who painted his depiction of Lordship Lane Station from this very vantage point around 1871.
David Mooney of the London Wildlife Trust, which manages Sydenham Hill Wood, expressed his delight at the reopening: “Cox’s Walk footbridge is a vital link, allowing more people to connect with the natural beauty of Sydenham Hill and Dulwich Woods. London Wildlife Trust has cared 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 future generations can continue to explore and enjoy this special part of our city’s natural heritage.”
Beyond its historical and cultural relevance, the bridge plays a key role in safeguarding the diverse woodland habitat within the former railway cutting below. This area is one of the richest in biodiversity within Sydenham Hill Wood and is home to sweet woodruff, a rare plant species that signals ancient woodland. The site also features field maple, hazel coppice, and the last remaining ‘railway poplar,’ a remnant of trees once planted alongside the railway. Staff and volunteers from the London Wildlife Trust have dedicated years of effort to maintaining this ecologically valuable area.
Councillor Portia Mwangangye, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Parks and Young People, highlighted the importance of the project: “We are delighted to see the Cox’s Walk footbridge restored and reopened to the public. This structure is not just a key link between Dulwich and Sydenham Hill Woods, but also an important part of our borough’s history and natural heritage. Southwark Council is proud to have funded this restoration, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can continue to enjoy the beauty of the woods and the connectivity of this popular walking route. We remain committed to preserving and enhancing Southwark’s green spaces for everyone to explore.”
The restoration of the bridge reflects Southwark Council’s wider commitment to maintaining green spaces across the borough. The council has worked closely with conservationists and community groups to ensure the long-term protection of Southwark’s natural heritage, and this project stands as a testament to that dedication.
Councillor James McAsh, Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency, Clean Air and Streets, emphasised the broader significance of the restoration: “This project safeguards both a vital walking route and a piece of our borough’s rich history. It also aligns with our commitment to making Southwark greener, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy nature while appreciating our shared heritage. We’re thrilled that this much-loved landmark is once again open for everyone to explore.”
Since 1982, London Wildlife Trust has managed Sydenham Hill Wood as a nature reserve, following a successful community-led campaign to save it from development. The reopening of Cox’s Walk footbridge reaffirms the importance of preserving urban green spaces and ensuring they remain accessible for all. Now, with the bridge restored, visitors can continue to experience the beauty of Dulwich and Sydenham Hill Woods while enjoying one of London’s most historic walking routes.
