The best woodland walks in East Sussex

Birdwatching and if you’re lucky a dolphin

One of our favourites is a woodland walk through Hastings Country Park, a 853-acre coastal park starring ancient woodland, open pasture and grassland but also features a coastline of sandstone cliffs. This particular walk is a haven for birdwatching and even has significant international importance due to its biodiversity and geology. Rumour has it Bottlenose dolphin’s can be spotted splashing around offshore. On bright days, you’ll be able to see as far as Folkestone.

Calling all nature lovers

Come along to the 647 acres that is Brede High Woods which is completely undisturbed and home to some of the most ancient woodland in the UK! Within Brede there are 10 distinct woodland areas all of which support a diverse ecosystem. In Spring you’ll be in awe of the blanket of bluebells but almost all year round there are wonders to be spotted including great crested newts, glowworms, badgers, dormouse, and deer.

Follow in the footsteps of Pooh and friends

If you’re not already aware and you’re a huge fan then you’ll be excited to know this area is famous for being the inspiration of A.A Milne’s beloved Winnie the Pooh books. Walkers in Ashdown Forest often match the places in the book to real locations in and around the area. This woodland walk gets you out and away from the crowds and following magical paths to well-known spots our beloved bear took in the novel.

Start or (and) end with a pint at the Coach & Horses

On the edge of Ashdown Forest is Danehill Walk, another walk around 3 miles long through glorious heathland and wooded valleys. This circular route commences from Coach and Horses Public House and ends at the same spot at Coach and Horses Lane ideally placed for a pint or two to quench your thirst after a well-deserved trek.A moderate walk, there are plenty of signposted paths and the opportunity to safely cross a small stream.

History lovers stroll

For an easy country stroll with gentle hills, stiles and some muddy paths opt for the Wivelsfield Green Walk. For this 4.5 mile walk you’ll set off from the local post office and along the way you’ll pass the grade 1 listed, Great Ote Hall which dates back to approximately 1550 and its history can be traced as far back as the 13th century. Another circular woodland route, you’ll cross several fields along the way before heading to North Common Road to reach the end of the walk

These are just a few of the many glorious East Sussex Forest walks so we’ll be here at Horsted Place when you decide to return with a warm welcome, delicious food and a comfy place to rest your head.