Brede High Woods is in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty north east of Battle between Cripps Corner and Broad Oak in East Sussex. It’s a stunning spot and perfect for a woodland walk.
The nearest train station is at Robertsbridge and the nearest bus stop is at Cripps Corner. There is parking at Brede High Woods Eastern and Western Car Parks, both along the B2089.
Ancient woodland
Brede High Woods is ancient woodland and includes a mixture of woods, streams, heath and grassland. It is home to all sorts of different wildlife, from newts and voles to ponies. The woodland covers 647 acres and was purchased by the Woodland Trust
in 2007.
For those interested, this area has a peppered history. In the late Iron Age and Roman eras, it would have been exploited for its iron ore. In 1086, following the Norman invasion, Brede probably formed part of the lands which belonged to the Norman Abbey at Fécamp in Normandy. Later, the farm at Brede High was granted to Sir Anthony Browne (who also acquired Battle Abbey and who had interests in Midhurst). There would have also been sand and stone quarries and later, hops were grown here. So far from the little pocket of tranquility that it is now, over the centuries, it would have been bustling with life, noise and industry.
Walks at Brede High Wood
There is lots of walking to enjoy at High Brede Woods and the best thing to do is grab a map or a map App and head off. From the Western car park, there is a 6 km loop around the reservoir. It involves a little bit of walking along a very sleepy lane. Alternatively, from the Eastern car park, there is a similar loop which is just a little bit shorter. If you want to walk to the pub at Broad Oak, it is possible to walk there off-road – it’s about 3.5 km from the Eastern car park and they serve food. Or just enjoy a gentle meander along woodland paths with no specific destination in mind.
Powdermill Reservoir
To the south of the woods is Powdermill Reservoir, created between 1929 and 1932. There was once a furnace where the reservoir now shimmers, built in 1578 to make armaments for the navy but closed before 1770, when it became a gunpowder mill. Hence the current name. Sadly, there were several explosions, and a number of people died.
The reservoir covers 56 acres and although not open to the public, Hastings Fly Fishers Club has fishing rights for rainbow trout and you can book day tickets along with a boat.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to walk at Brede High Wood?
The best time to walk is probably in the spring for carpets of bluebells or autumn for golden colours. Walk early morning and you’ll enjoy lots of tranquility.
What else is there to do nearby?
Visit nearby Brede for the magnificent Brede Steam Giants and an interesting 12th century church, which has a legend of a giant! There is also a nearby vineyard, Sedlescombe Organic. Head north for Bodiam Castle.
Are there any places to eat nearby?
Yes, there is The Broad Oak pub at Broad Oak and a little further on towards Rye there is Tibbs Farm and Café.
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