Ashdown Forest

Wood, Forest in Sussex Wealden

England

Ashdown Forest

Ashdown Forest, located in the county of Sussex in southern England, is a picturesque expanse of woodland and heathland covering an area of about 6,400 acres. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

The forest is characterized by its expansive network of walking trails, which offer visitors the opportunity to explore its diverse landscape. From dense woodlands of oak and birch trees to open heathlands with rolling hills, Ashdown Forest boasts a rich variety of habitats, making it home to a wide array of flora and fauna. Visitors can expect to encounter a range of wildlife, including deer, rabbits, foxes, and numerous bird species.

One of the forest's most iconic features is its network of streams and ponds, which not only add to its scenic charm but also provide a vital water source for the local wildlife. The forest is also home to several ancient landmarks, such as prehistoric burial mounds and Iron Age hillforts, which are a testament to its long and fascinating history.

Ashdown Forest holds a special place in literary history as well, as it served as the inspiration for the beloved children's book character, Winnie-the-Pooh. The author, A.A. Milne, frequently visited the forest with his son, Christopher Robin, and the characters in his books are said to be based on toys owned by Christopher.

Overall, Ashdown Forest offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, providing visitors with a chance to immerse themselves in nature and soak up the beauty of this unique woodland haven.

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Ashdown Forest Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.052064/0.067009817 or Grid Reference TQ4430. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Nutley Windmill, Ashdown Forest (East Sussex)

Nutley windmill is an open-trestle post mill, one of only five remaining in the UK. It is "open-trestle" because the supporting timbers (cross-trees, quarter-bars and upright post) are open to the elements. Most post mills have their trestle enclosed in a brick roundhouse.

Roy Henderson

Ice Cream Van in layby on A22

PAUL FARMER

Sun setting over the fields, Millbrook Hill

David Howard

Fields by Millbrook Hill

David Howard

Ashdown Forest above the Misbourne Valley

Ashdown Forest is a former medieval hunting forest, and is the highest ridge of the High Weald. At ten square miles it is the largest open access area in the South East. Ashdown Forest was purchased by East Sussex County Council from the De La Warr family in 1988. It is now managed by a Board of Conservators. Nearly two thirds of it is heathland, areas of which can be seen here alongside the path up the west side of the Misbourne Valley to Stonehill car park. The sandy nature of the soil is also evident.

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Ashdown Forest above the Misbourne Valley

Ashdown Forest is a former medieval hunting forest, and is the highest ridge of the High Weald. At ten square miles it is the largest open access area in the South East. Ashdown Forest was purchased by East Sussex County Council from the De La Warr family in 1988. It is now managed by a Board of Conservators. Nearly two thirds of it is heathland, areas of which can be seen here, either side of the path up the west side of the Misbourne Valley to Stonehill car park. The wide path also acts as a fire break. The sandy nature of the soil is evident.

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Heathland on Ashdown Forest

Ashdown Forest is a former medieval hunting forest, and is the highest ridge of the High Weald. At ten square miles it is the largest open access area in the South East. Ashdown Forest was purchased by East Sussex County Council from the De La Warr family in 1988. It is now managed by a Board of Conservators. Nearly two thirds of it is heathland, areas of which can be seen on both sides of the wide path here which acts as a firebreak. The path leads from the Airman's Grave up to Hollies car park.

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Ashdown Forest information board about the Misbourne Valley

Ashdown Forest is a former medieval hunting forest, and is the highest ridge of the High Weald. At ten square miles it is the largest open access area in the South East. Ashdown Forest was purchased by East Sussex County Council from the De La Warr family in 1988. It is now managed by a Board of Conservators. Nearly two thirds of it is heathland. This information board is at Hollies car park and is looking towards the Misbourne Valley. What is on the board can be seen at Link

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Information board about Ashdown Forest

This is the information board next to Hollies car park and looking down towards the Misbourne valley as seen in Link

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Ashdown Forest from Hollies car park

Ashdown Forest is a former medieval hunting forest, and is the highest ridge of the High Weald. At ten square miles it is the largest open access area in the South East. Ashdown Forest was purchased by East Sussex County Council from the De La Warr family in 1988. It is now managed by a Board of Conservators. Nearly two thirds of it is heathland. This view is from Hollies car park and is looking towards the Misbourne Valley. The South Downs are on the horizon.

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Ellison's Pond, Ashdown Forest

Ashdown Forest is a former medieval hunting forest, and is the highest ridge of the High Weald. At ten square miles it is the largest open access area in the South East. Ashdown Forest was purchased by East Sussex County Council from the De La Warr family in 1988. It is now managed by a Board of Conservators. Nearly two thirds of it is heathland. Ellison's Pond (actually two ponds) is just north of Crowborough Road, not far from Camp Hill.

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