Ashen Wood

Wood, Forest in Sussex Rother

England

Ashen Wood

Hop Garden near Witherenden An uncommon sight these days, one of the few hop gardens in an area in the High Weald that used to be famous for hop growing. This is in early spring when the trellis has been strung, and the fresh bines are just emerging. — Hop Garden near Witherenden Credit: David Saunders

Ashen Wood is a picturesque forest located in Sussex, England. Covering an area of approximately 200 acres, this woodland is renowned for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. The forest is predominantly composed of ash trees, hence its name, which create a dense canopy overhead, providing shade and shelter for the diverse array of wildlife that calls this woodland home.

As one enters Ashen Wood, they are greeted by a well-maintained network of footpaths that wind their way through the forest, allowing visitors to explore and appreciate its natural wonders. These paths lead to various points of interest, such as small clearings where sunlight filters through the dense foliage, creating enchanting pockets of light and shadows. The forest floor is adorned with a carpet of ferns, mosses, and wildflowers, adding bursts of vibrant colors to the otherwise green landscape.

Ashen Wood is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering a rich diversity of wildlife. Birdwatchers can spot various species of birds, including woodpeckers, owls, and songbirds, while keen-eyed observers may catch a glimpse of elusive mammals such as deer and foxes. The forest is also home to a variety of insects, reptiles, and amphibians, making it a fascinating ecosystem to explore.

In addition to its natural beauty, Ashen Wood is also steeped in history. It has been a source of timber for centuries, with evidence of human activity dating back to medieval times. Today, the wood is managed by local conservation groups, ensuring its preservation and sustainability for future generations to enjoy.

Overall, Ashen Wood offers a serene and captivating experience for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Its lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to reconnect with nature in the heart of Sussex.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

Ashen Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.996307/0.3359569 or Grid Reference TQ6424. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Hop Garden near Witherenden

An uncommon sight these days, one of the few hop gardens in an area in the High Weald that used to be famous for hop growing. This is in early spring when the trellis has been strung, and the fresh bines are just emerging.

David Saunders

Oil seed rape crop in flower

A High Weald landscape in spring, near Witherenden Hill

David Saunders

Bines Farm

Bines Farm from Bivelham Forge Farm looking over the River Rother

David Saunders

Wheel Inn, Burwash Weald

This inn is sited on the A265 in a High Weald village which straggles along the road. It has a traditional tile-hung frontage on its first floor.

Colin Smith

The Oast House, Burwash Weald

Oast houses are common not only in Kent, but also across the county border in East Sussex. Like this one, they are often now converted into exclusive houses retaining the distinctive round tower with its white cowl.

Colin Smith

Burwash Weald on the A265

The A265 has many straight stretches as it runs over the ridges of the High Weald. This village suffers from one of the higher speed limits imposed on drivers. Many Wealden villages, like this one, are sited on the ridges or on hill tops - above formerly ill-drained and wooded river valleys.

Colin Smith

Oast House Weather Vane

Oast houses have distinctive white cowls on top of their towers. These swivel in the wind to catch the breeze for drying the hops below. This converted oast house in Burwash Weald has a distinctive weather vane attached which reflects the local sheep-rearing industry.

Colin Smith