A century ago three railway branches operated in the Rother Valley. Midhurst to Petersfield going west, Midhurst to Pulborough eastwards and a third tunneling through the Downs heading south to Chichester.
First to reach Midhurst was built by the LSWR,[ London & South Western Railway ] from Petersfield, with stations at Rogate and Elstead, opened 1st September 1864
[closed 5th February 1955].
Second company to Midhurst was the LB&SCR, [ London Brighton & South Coast Railway ], which operated the main Horsham to London line. This was extended to Pulborough, Fittleworth and Petworth opening 10th October 1859. The Midhurst, Petworth extension opened 15th October 1866 with Selham the only stop between the two.
[ closed: Passengers 1955 - goods 1966 ]
The - very expensive - line to Chichester opened 11th July 1881. Built by the LB&SCR it had stations at Cocking, Singleton and Lavant
[ closed: Passengers 1935 - goods 1953 ]