Ashdown Forest is an ancient area of open heathland within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. As you’d expect, it has a long and fascinating history along with stunning walks and views. From certain places, you can see to the South Downs.
A long story
There have been Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Romano-British finds on the forest which include a stone axe believed to be 50,000 years old. The forest was an important area for the iron industry in both Roman and Tudor times and there was a Roman road across the forest.
Following the Norman conquest, the forest was used as a hunting ground which continued right up to Tudor times. Notable visitors included Henry VIII. By 1283, the forest had been fenced but locals were allowed to graze their cattle there and collect firewood and there are still people with Commoners’ rights! A Commoner is a person who enjoys a specific Right of Common over Ashdown Forest. There are about 730 properties in and around the forest that retain these rights. By 1693, over half the forest was privately owned.
These days, that which is not privately owned is owned by the Ashdown Forest Trust, and managed by the Conservators of Ashdown Forest. It covers 9.5 square miles and is the largest area with open public access in South East England. It is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation for its heathland habitats.
Things to do and see on Ashdown Forest
First and foremost, the forest is an area that is famous for its great walking. With fabulous views, it has an ever changing landscape (one minute you’re on an open hill top, then you’re in a wooded copse). There is plenty of parking (although parking is not free) and of course, you can just set off with a map and a sense of adventure. Alternatively, there are free guided walks with wardens, walking groups and you can download maps (for a small cost) of different walks (each two to three miles) from the Ashdown Forest website.
There are also three riding stables on the forest or you can apply for a horse riding permit. Whatever time you visit, the forest is always awash with interesting colour from heather and gorse to bluebells and bracken.
Famous folk of the forest
The forest and its landscape inspired A A Milne and is the setting for Winnie the Pooh and the Hundred Acre Wood. The famous Pooh Sticks Bridge is to the north of the forest. Other notable places on the forest include the Airman’s Grave, Nutley Windmill, Mungo’s Waterfall and Chelwood Vachery Forest Garden. While you’re on the forest, look out for ponies grazing and the distinctive cattle as well as a myriad of birds, butterflies and other rare species.
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Abandoned Sussex Garden: Chelwood Vachery Forest Garden
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A Bimble Around Ashdown Forest (East Sussex)
