Your Guide to Ashdown Forest, East Sussex: Things to Do and Where to Stay
Nestled in the heart of East Sussex, the enchanting landscape of Ashdown Forest offers a peaceful sanctuary for wildlife, a rich history, and a touch of magic for all who visit. Known famously as the inspiration behind A.A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh, the forest invites guests to wander in the very landscapes that inspired Christopher Robin and his little yellow bear’s adventures in the Hundred Acre Wood.
As an undisputable highlight of the East Sussex countryside, Ashdown Forest attracts thousands of visitors each year. In this guide, we provide all you need to plan a memorable day trip or stay in Ashdown Forest. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, nature-loving couple, or a family looking to explore A.A. Milne’s classic childhood tales, Ashdown Forest has something for everyone. From must-visit trails and attractions to charming places to stay, read on as we explore what makes this little patch of countryside so special.
Ashdown Forest at a glimpse
Covering almost 2,430 hectares, Ashdown Forest is situated in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and comprises a rare combination of heath and ancient woodland.
Preserved since the late 17th century, the forest’s unique landscape is shaped by centuries of grazing and human activity – including usage as a medieval hunting ground.
Today, wildlife takes priority, with the forest being home to diverse flora and fauna including deer, birds, and mustelids. Its open spaces – criss-crossed by footpaths – make it the perfect location for long, leisurely walks, complemented perfectly by uninterrupted, breathtaking views of the South Downs and the Weald.
Things to do in Ashdown Forest
Winnie the Pooh and the Hundred Acre Wood
One hundred years since its initial publication, Ashdown Forest’s charm is still interwoven with the tales of Winnie the Pooh. A part-time resident of Hartfield, A.A. Milne drew inspiration from the forest, especially near the village, to create the world of Pooh, Piglet, and Christopher Robin.
Fans of the stories can visit real-life versions of Poohsticks Bridge, Galleon’s Lap, and the Enchanted Place on the Pooh Walks, which each offer a wonderful way to relive these iconic tales. Many visitors also bring along children (or their inner child) to play a game of Poohsticks at the famous bridge.
Then there’s Pooh Corner in Hartfield, a shop and tearoom in Hartfield that’s also a must-stop for those wanting to delve deeper into the world of Winnie the Pooh. Take a wander around its ‘Pooh-seum’, a rare collection of Pooh memorabilia from around the world, before resting with a cream tea and a spot of souvenir shopping.
If you’ve never played Pooh Sticks before, the rules are simple: competitors simultaneously drop a stick from the upstream side of the bridge into the water below. Whoever’s stick appears first on the other side of the bridge wins. Make sure to collect your sticks at the forest’s entrance, as there are few close to the bridge itself!
Walks and Hiking Trails
Explore scenic footpaths that range from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes, immersing yourself in the tranquil surroundings. For a small donation, visitors to the forest can access a map to any of the 13 circular walking routes on the Ashdown Forest website. Good starting points include the Old Lodge nature reserve, Tabell Ghyll, and Gills Lap.
Food & Drink in Hartfield
In the pretty village of Hartfield, you’ll find the Gallipot Inn and Bear Inn – both excellent places to stop for a pub lunch that feature large beer gardens. The Bear Inn is also home to the Honey Pot – a coffeehouse serving pastries and cream tea during the mornings from Friday to Sunday.
Things to do that are close to Ashdown Forest
Bluebell Railway
Embark on a journey filled with historic adventure at the Bluebell Railway, where steam-powered trains transport visitors through the beautiful Sussex countryside. At the Sheffield Park station, there’s a small locomotive museum as well as Steamworks – an interactive exhibit featuring touchscreens, an information board, and a model steam train in the locomotive shed on Platform 1.
360° Brewing Co. + Taproom
Just a stone’s throw from Bluebell Railway station at Sheffield Park, the 360° Brewing Co. + Taproom offers a winning combination of great pizza and beer – perfect for whiling away a casual Saturday afternoon.
Hever Castle
The childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Hever Castle is set in 125 acres of glorious grounds, providing a rich historical experience where you’ll discover award-winning gardens.
Wakehurst
Delve deeper into nature in the wild botanical garden of Wakehurst. Situated in the heart of Sussex, this incredible attraction – a sister site to London’s Kew Gardens – is home to the Millennium Seed Bank, plus over 500 acres of diverse landscapes and plants from across the globe.
Nearby towns
For those seeking a leisurely day out, there are several charming market towns nearby that are ideal for exploring independent shops, cafés, and restaurants, including East Grinstead – within a 15-minute drive from Ashdown Forest – and Royal Tunbridge Wells, which is a 25-minute drive away.
Where to Stay near Ashdown Forest
Masketts Barn, Nutley
Nestled in the serene Sussex countryside on the edge of Ashdown Forest, Masketts Barn is an eighteenth-century grain barn that’s been beautifully converted to sleep up to 13 guests. Oak beams and cosy interiors fill this country home, which offers picturesque views of the surrounding South Downs and – inevitably – unforgettable sunsets.
Steeped in history, Masketts Barn offers the perfect opportunity for families, friends and couples to come together.
Cart Lodge, Blackham
Located a 15-minute drive from Ashdown Forest in Blackham, Cart Lodge provides a spacious holiday home all on one floor that’s perfect for couples or small families. Sleeping four, the open plan lodge contains a cosy living room with a woodburner that can also be enjoyed from the bedroom since both rooms sit side by side. The kitchen comes fully equipped, too, and overlooks the garden where there’s a coal barbecue – ideal for al fresco dining.
Dairy Barn, Blackham
Also in Blackham is Dairy Barn, a gorgeous barn conversion with breathtaking views across the countryside. An idyllic retreat for couples, this property offers guests everything they need to fully unwind from the day-to-day, whether it’s enjoying bubbles in the hot tub on the terrace, or cosying up inside with the woodburner.
Planning Your Visit: Essentials and Tips
Best Times to Visit Ashdown Forest
Ashdown Forest is beautiful all year round. However, each season offers a unique experience. In spring, the forest blooms with wildflowers. Autumn, on the other hand, brings beautiful colours – particularly at the beginning of the season, when the leaves start to change.
Food and Drink in Ashdown Forest
While there are no food and drink outlets in the forest itself, visitors can enjoy a visit to the small tearooms and pubs in Hartfield or nearby villages. We recommend bringing a picnic for a day out, as there are so many beautiful places to stop and admire throughout the forest.
Parking in Ashdown Forest
Pooh Car Park offers the best accessibility to Pooh Bridge (15-minute walk), while Gill’s Lap Car Park marks the starting point for the Pooh Walks. To reach the AA Milne and EH Shepard Memorial, you could opt to take a detour from these paths; alternatively, it’s possible to reach it directly from Piglet’s Car Park nearby.
Parking in Ashdown Forest is subject to a fee, priced at £4 for up to four hours or £5 all day, which goes towards the continued preservation of the forest.
Plan Your Ashdown Forest Adventure with Bloom Stays
Whether you’re a Winnie the Pooh fan, history enthusiast, or simply in search of a peaceful retreat, Ashdown Forest is an ideal destination to reconnect with nature and enjoy the charm of East Sussex.
Interested in a place to stay in Ashdown Forest? Get in touch to book your stay through Bloom Stays and make the most of your time in this beautiful part of East Sussex.
