Ashdown Forest
Step into the real Hundred Acre Wood: 6,500 acres of protected heathland, Poohsticks Bridge, and timeless East Sussex countryside.
Stretching across 6,500 acres of East Sussex heathland, Ashdown Forest is a protected wilderness and the real-life inspiration for A.A. Milne’s Hundred Acre Wood. This ancient landscape of open heath, pine woods, and sparkling streams offers peaceful walks, wildlife spotting, and the chance to play Poohsticks at the famous bridge. Managed as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, it balances rare habitats with public access, making it a beloved destination for families, walkers, and fans of Winnie‑the‑Pooh alike.
A brief summary to Ashdown Forest
- Forest Row, Wych Cross, RH18 5JP, GB
- +441342823583
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring an OS map or use a GPS app; paths are not always well‑signposted, especially off the main tracks.
- Visit Poohsticks Bridge early in the day or late afternoon to avoid the busiest crowds, especially in school holidays.
- Wear sturdy footwear and waterproofs; paths can be muddy in winter and some areas are uneven or overgrown.
- Take all litter and dog waste home – bins are limited, and the forest relies on visitors to keep it clean.
- Combine your visit with Pooh Corner in Hartfield for a nostalgic tea break and Pooh‑themed souvenirs.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By car from Royal Tunbridge Wells
From Royal Tunbridge Wells, follow the A264 east towards Forest Row, then join the A22 north towards East Grinstead. Exit at Wych Cross for the Ashdown Forest Centre and main car parks. Journey time is around 30 minutes. Parking fees apply at forest car parks; payment is via app or annual pass.
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By car from East Grinstead
From East Grinstead, take the A22 south towards London, then exit at Wych Cross for the Ashdown Forest Centre and surrounding car parks. The drive takes about 20–25 minutes. Multiple forest car parks are accessible from this junction, with fees payable on site via app.
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By train and taxi
Take a train to East Grinstead or Forest Row station, then a local taxi to Wych Cross or a specific forest car park. Journey time from station to forest is 10–15 minutes. Taxis are readily available but should be pre‑booked in busy periods.
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Local bus and walk
Bus services connect East Grinstead and Forest Row; from there, it’s a 20–30 minute walk along country lanes to Wych Cross and the forest edge. Routes are not fully accessible for buggies or wheelchairs, and paths can be muddy after rain.
Ashdown Forest location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Ashdown Forest
Ancient Heathland and Royal Hunting Ground
Ashdown Forest covers over 6,500 acres of lowland heath, one of the rarest habitats in Europe, never ploughed and shaped by centuries of human activity. Originally enclosed as a royal hunting forest in Norman times, it was protected behind a 23‑mile pale, preserving its wild character. Henry VIII is said to have ridden here from his hunting lodge at King’s Standing, and local tales even link him to Anne Boleyn on these very paths. Today, the forest is managed as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, a Special Protection Area, and part of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, safeguarding its unique flora and fauna while remaining free for public enjoyment.The Real Hundred Acre Wood
Ashdown Forest is world‑famous as the setting for A.A. Milne’s Winnie‑the‑Pooh stories. The author lived nearby at Cotchford Farm, and his son Christopher Robin played in these woods, inspiring the Hundred Acre Wood, Poohsticks Bridge, and the adventures of Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore, and friends. Visitors can follow marked Pooh walks, cross the rebuilt Poohsticks Bridge (originally Posingford Bridge), and explore spots like the Enchanted Place and Eeyore’s Gloomy Place. While the characters’ homes aren’t literal buildings, the atmosphere of the books lives on in the dappled light, winding paths, and quiet clearings that feel like stepping into a storybook.Walking, Wildlife and Seasonal Beauty
The forest offers a network of fire breaks, tracks, and footpaths suitable for all levels, from gentle strolls to longer hikes. Open heathland bursts with purple heather in summer, while winter brings misty mornings and crisp air. Wildlife is rich and varied: fallow, roe, and muntjac deer move quietly through the trees, adders sun themselves on warm days, and birds such as Dartford warblers, skylarks, and woodcocks inhabit the heath and woodland. Birdwatchers and photographers will find endless opportunities, especially at dawn or dusk when the forest feels at its most magical. Horse riding is also popular, with permits available for access to the extensive off‑road network.Visitor Experience and Practicalities
The Ashdown Forest Centre at Wych Cross serves as an information hub, with maps, exhibitions, and details about conservation and events. Parking is available at more than 40 car parks across the forest, with fees now in place to support upkeep. Facilities are limited on the forest itself; toilets and picnic areas are concentrated at the Forest Centre and nearby garden centres, while bins are sparse, so visitors are encouraged to take all litter home. There are no cafes or shops within the forest proper, but nearby villages like Hartfield (home to Pooh Corner) and Forest Row offer tea rooms, pubs, and supplies, making it easy to combine a forest walk with a country lunch or a nostalgic visit to the Pooh‑themed shop.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection
44.7 km
Explore the Wernher Collection at Ranger's House, a historic art museum in Greenwich, London, showcasing exquisite art and cultural treasures.
David Bowie Memorial
44.9 km
A vibrant, iconic mural in Brixton celebrating David Bowie's legacy and his deep roots in London's cultural heart.
Royal Observatory Greenwich
45.1 km
Discover the Royal Observatory Greenwich, where history and astronomy collide in a breathtaking setting. Experience the Prime Meridian and explore fascinating exhibitions.
Prime Meridian
45.2 km
Stand astride the historic Prime Meridian line at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, the birthplace of global time and navigation.
Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
45.5 km
Explore Maritime Greenwich, where royal heritage, maritime history, and the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time converge in a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Montague Square
45.6 km
Discover Montague Square in London, a hidden gem offering tranquility and historical charm amidst the vibrant city life, perfect for leisurely strolls and relaxation.
National Maritime Museum Gardens
45.6 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich maritime history at the National Maritime Museum Gardens in London's historic Greenwich.
Queen's House
45.6 km
Explore the architectural beauty and rich history of the Queen's House, a must-see museum and art gallery in Greenwich, London.
1 Greenwich Church St
45.6 km
Historic Greenwich Church Street blends medieval roots with vibrant shopping, dining, and cultural life in the heart of London’s Royal Borough of Greenwich.
Painted Hall
45.8 km
Discover the breathtaking Painted Hall in Greenwich, a Baroque masterpiece showcasing stunning frescoes and rich British naval history, perfect for art lovers.
Cutty Sark
45.8 km
Explore the Cutty Sark, a historic maritime museum in Greenwich, London, showcasing the legacy of the legendary tea clipper and its adventures on the high seas.
Cutty Sark Gardens
45.9 km
Explore Cutty Sark Gardens in London for a peaceful retreat filled with stunning river views and rich maritime history, a perfect escape from the city hustle.
Bellot Memorial Greenwich
45.9 km
A solemn obelisk in Greenwich honoring Lieutenant Joseph René Bellot’s Arctic bravery and sacrifice during the Franklin rescue expeditions.
Dartford Crossing (Southbound)
46.0 km
Experience the engineering marvel of the Dartford Crossing, the busiest estuarial road crossing in the UK, linking Kent and Essex over the River Thames.
Trafalgar Tavern
46.0 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
Unmissable attractions to see
Holy Trinity Church, Forest Row
3.1 km
Explore the serene Holy Trinity Church in Forest Row, a stunning example of Gothic architecture surrounded by the tranquil beauty of East Sussex.
Pooh Corner
5.2 km
Step into the enchanting world of Winnie the Pooh at Pooh Corner, a historic tea room, museum, and gift shop nestled beside Ashdown Forest.
Hever Castle & Gardens
13.5 km
Explore the enchanting Tudor castle and 125 acres of award-winning gardens that tell the story of Anne Boleyn’s childhood and England’s royal past.
Chartwell
19.3 km
Explore the historic home, gardens, and art studio of Winston Churchill, a peaceful retreat steeped in British history and natural beauty.
Deer Park
23.6 km
Explore 1,000 acres of historic deer park, Tudor grandeur, and natural beauty at Knole Park in Sevenoaks, Kent.
National Trust - Ightham Mote
25.8 km
Discover the magic of a 14th-century moated manor nestled in tranquil Kent gardens and woodland walks, rich with history and charm.
Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar
28.2 km
Experience the living history of WWII aviation at Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar, home to the world’s largest collection of airworthy Spitfires and restoration expertise.
Biggin Hill Memorial Museum
28.4 km
Explore the heroic history of RAF Biggin Hill through immersive exhibits and the sacred Chapel of Remembrance in this inspiring memorial museum.
Home of Charles Darwin - Down House
28.8 km
Explore the Victorian home and gardens where Charles Darwin developed his groundbreaking theory of evolution.
Box Hill
32.2 km
Explore Surrey’s iconic Box Hill with breathtaking views, diverse trails, rich wildlife, and family-friendly nature play in a stunning chalk landscape.
Denbies Wine Estate
32.9 km
Explore England’s largest single-estate vineyard with award-winning wines, panoramic Surrey Hills views, immersive tours, and fine dining.
Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation
34.6 km
Discover majestic birds of prey and engaging wildlife experiences in Kent’s award-winning sanctuary and family-friendly refuge.
Brands Hatch
34.9 km
Experience the thrill and history of Brands Hatch, Kent’s iconic motor racing circuit with legendary corners and world-class events.
Selhurst Park Stadium
37.4 km
Historic Selhurst Park Stadium in South London, home to Crystal Palace FC since 1924, blending rich football heritage with evolving modern charm.
The George Inn
37.6 km
Historic Beckenham pub with over 350 years of heritage, a lively beer garden, and traditional English charm.
Essential places to dine
The Clink Restaurant Brixton
43.9 km
Dine inside a historic prison where prisoners train as chefs, blending fine European cuisine with a powerful rehabilitation mission.
The Courtesan
44.7 km
Experience authentic dim sum, inventive cocktails, and captivating cabaret in the glamorous, intimate setting of Brixton’s The Courtesan.
The Hill
45.0 km
A vibrant Mediterranean and Latin American fusion restaurant with a cozy garden setting in the heart of Greenwich.
The Prince of Greenwich Pub
45.1 km
A vibrant gastropub in Greenwich blending quirky museum charm, authentic Italian cuisine, and lively jazz in a historic London setting.
Bill's Greenwich Restaurant
45.6 km
A cozy British restaurant in Greenwich offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere from breakfast to late dinner.
Pho Street
45.6 km
Authentic Vietnamese pho, banh mi, and bubble tea served in a lively Greenwich setting with fresh flavors and warm hospitality.
Sticks'n'Sushi Greenwich
45.6 km
Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.
Goddards at Greenwich
45.7 km
Experience authentic British pie and mash at Goddards at Greenwich, a historic eatery serving traditional comfort food in a welcoming setting.
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
45.9 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
Sefa Restaurant
46.0 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
Midpoint Restaurant
46.1 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Brunswick House
47.5 km
Experience inventive British cuisine in a stunning Georgian mansion adorned with chandeliers and antiques, blending history and modern dining in Vauxhall.
Billingsgate Market
48.4 km
Experience the bustling heart of London’s seafood trade at Billingsgate Market, a historic wholesale hub alive with tradition and fresh catches.
The Jam
48.5 km
Discover Chelsea’s iconic Italian eatery with quirky treehouse seating and authentic cuisine on King’s Road.
Mercato Metropolitano
48.5 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
La Boutique Vintage
44.7 km
Unearth retro home treasures in Greenwich's cozy furniture nook—sustainable style with vintage soul.
Brixton Village
44.8 km
London's most diverse market where over 100 independent traders from 50+ nations create culinary and cultural magic.
The Junk Shop
45.3 km
Lose yourself in Greenwich's maze-like antique wonderland, where eclectic treasures, a cozy tearoom, and quirky finds await around every cluttered corner.
The Greenwich Vintage Market
45.5 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and handmade crafts in the heart of historic Greenwich’s vibrant market scene.
Joli Vintage Living
45.6 km
Discover timeless threads and retro treasures at Joli Vintage Living, Greenwich's gem for sustainable, era-spanning style on charming Nelson Road.
The Cutty Sark Gift Shop
45.6 km
Discover maritime magic and London keepsakes at this Greenwich gem, brimming with Cutty Sark-inspired treasures and souvenirs just steps from the historic clipper ship.
Arc Angel Boutique London
45.6 km
Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
Dragonfly Lifestyle
45.6 km
A small Greenwich boutique blending mindful womenswear, handcrafted jewellery and wellbeing finds in a calm, curated shop environment.
Made in Greenwich
45.7 km
Discover Greenwich's handmade heart: a not-for-profit haven where local makers' treasures shine, fueling community creativity one unique gift at a time.
5b Greenwich Market
45.7 km
Historic covered market in London’s Greenwich with antiques, artisan crafts, and global street food in a vibrant World Heritage setting.
Rare Books & Curios
45.7 km
A compact Greenwich Market stall overflowing with rare and vintage books, maps and printed curios that reward slow, tactile browsing.
Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
45.7 km
Dive into a candy wonderland on Greenwich Church Street, where British classics and global sweets make perfect edible souvenirs in London's historic heart.
Painted hall gift shop
45.8 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
The Unique Maps Co.
46.1 km
Discover rare vintage maps and bespoke cartographic art crafted with passion in London’s Unique Maps Co. workshop.
Unique Store
47.7 km
Explore London's Unique Store: Your go-to convenience shop for local snacks, souvenirs, and essentials, right in the heart of the city.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cocktail Party
39.3 km
Experience the elegance of bespoke mobile cocktail catering in London with The Cocktail Party, where every event becomes a memorable occasion.
Ninety Seven Wine & Cocktail Bar
39.6 km
A stylish Sidcup bar blending expertly crafted cocktails with a warm, inviting atmosphere for memorable evenings.
Drink At Bob's
42.3 km
Lively cocktail bar in Hither Green blending expertly crafted drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe with vegan-friendly options.
The M Bar
44.0 km
Experience the best of mobile catering and cocktails at The M Bar, a must-visit destination for food lovers and event planners in New Malden.
Dogstar
44.7 km
A multi-floor Brixton hotspot blending industrial charm with energetic music and a lively party pub vibe.
The Whiskey Tumbler
44.7 km
A cozy Brixton pub blending Irish whiskey tradition, craft cocktails, and lively live music in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Shrub and Shutter
44.8 km
Innovative cocktail bar and modern British restaurant offering unique shrub-based drinks and eclectic small plates in Brixton’s vibrant heart.
Trinity Arms
44.9 km
Historic Young’s pub in Brixton offering traditional British fare, real ales, and a cozy atmosphere on a charming London square.
Brixton Brewery Tap Room
44.9 km
A bright, bustling brewery taproom in Brixton offering fresh craft beers and a lively local atmosphere beneath a historic railway arch.
SIXTY/FOUR Cocktail Bar
45.3 km
A stylish Clapham hotspot offering creative cocktails, rooftop vibes, and soulful house tunes in a cozy, intimate setting.
The Lost Hour
45.4 km
Greenwich's craft beer epicenter where sports, pub grub, and late-night vibes collide—lose yourself in the fun on High Road.
The Landor
45.4 km
A lively Clapham pub with a heated beer garden, great sports atmosphere, and a menu full of crowd-pleasing favorites.
Ye Olde Rose & Crown Greenwich
45.4 km
Traditional Greenwich pub pouring real ales and pub classics next to the theatre—perfect for families, dogs, and post-show pints in historic surrounds.
Kings Arms
45.6 km
Classic Greenwich pub with hearty grub, real ales, dog-friendly beer garden, and riverside vibes—perfect for post-sightseeing pints.
Mindful Mixology
45.6 km
A compact Greenwich cocktail bar focused on lower-sugar craft drinks, hands-on masterclasses and a calm riverside atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Air & Breathe Nightclub
43.1 km
Vibrant dual-zone nightclub in Dartford blending youthful energy with plush exclusivity for over 25s.
The Bunker
45.0 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
Phonox
45.1 km
Phonox: Brixton’s cutting-edge nightclub where underground electronic beats meet a vibrant, spacious dancefloor and top-tier sound.
The Hatch Club
45.2 km
A late-night New Cross club with a roomy dancefloor, VIP sections and bass-forward DJ nights—built for parties and private events.
Funky Friday Over 30's Night
45.2 km
Funky Friday Over 30's Night in Greenhithe offers a vibrant atmosphere with live music, perfect for dancing and socializing with friends.
The Venue
45.3 km
A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.
Infernos Nightclub
45.3 km
Clapham’s legendary two-floor nightclub where wild nights, iconic music, and unforgettable parties come alive until dawn.
Oliver's Jazz Bar
45.5 km
Experience the soulful rhythms and vibrant atmosphere at Oliver's Jazz Bar, where great music meets delightful drinks in the heart of London.
The Clapham Grand
46.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of London at The Clapham Grand, a premier events venue offering live music, comedy, and unforgettable parties.
Club 701
46.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
CQ LOUNGE
46.9 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
Le Fez
47.0 km
Experience Putney’s premier Moroccan-inspired nightclub with lush lounges, vibrant dancefloors, and unforgettable late-night entertainment.
Fire Nightclub
47.4 km
Vauxhall's railway arch behemoth: all-night house marathons, go-go dancers, and dawn-defying beats in London's gay club epicenter.
Lightbox London
47.5 km
Dive into dazzling LED realms at Vauxhall's electrifying nightclub, where lights, beats, and all-night energy create unforgettable weekend escapes.
Bootylicious London last Saturday of the month
47.6 km
Late-night Vauxhall institution for raw techno, queer-focused party nights and after-hours clubbing on Albert Embankment.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly