Long Shaw

Wood, Forest in Sussex Hastings

England

Long Shaw

Cliffs at Ecclesbourne Glen A view from the Saxon Shore Way — Cliffs at Ecclesbourne Glen Credit: Des Blenkinsopp

Long Shaw is a picturesque woodland located in Sussex, England. Situated in the heart of the countryside, it offers visitors a serene and tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The forest is part of the wider Ashdown Forest, which is known for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystem.

Covering an area of approximately 300 hectares, Long Shaw is characterized by its dense canopy of towering oak, beech, and holly trees. The forest floor is adorned with a rich carpet of ferns, bluebells, and other wildflowers, creating a stunning display of colors throughout the seasons.

The woodland is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, badgers, and a plethora of bird species. Nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers will find plenty to admire, as the forest provides a sanctuary for many rare and endangered birds.

Long Shaw offers an extensive network of walking trails, allowing visitors to explore the forest at their own pace. These paths wind their way through the ancient woodland, revealing hidden glades, babbling brooks, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, camping facilities are available within designated areas of the forest. This provides an opportunity to truly connect with nature and experience the magic of the woodland after sunset.

Long Shaw is a true gem for nature lovers, offering a peaceful retreat where visitors can reconnect with the natural world. Whether it's a leisurely stroll, a birdwatching adventure, or a camping trip, this woodland has something to offer for everyone.

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Long Shaw Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.866769/0.62726133 or Grid Reference TQ8410. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Cliffs at Ecclesbourne Glen

A view from the Saxon Shore Way

Des Blenkinsopp

Coastal view at Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve

Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve consists of 853 acres of ancient woodland, heathland, grassland and farmland together with three miles of sandstone cliffs and coastline. This view from near the Visitor Centre looks along the coast at Pett Level towards Winchelsea Beach and Romney Marsh. The coastline curves away towards Dungeness on the right.

Marathon

Coastal view at Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve

Marathon

Coastal view at Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve

Marathon

Hastings Country Park

A view looking south east over the eastern section of the 345 hectares of coast, cliffs, woodland, valleys and grassland which has been a country park since 1974. Link

Des Blenkinsopp

Sandstone in an Old Quarry

A disused sand quarry in Hastings Country Park. In production until the 1960s, the quarry produced a fine grained white sand which was used in high quality glass making. Several sandstone outcrops are still to be seen among the largely overgrown former workings.

Des Blenkinsopp

In an Old Quarry

A former sand quarry which ceased production in the 1960s has now been mostly reclaimed by tees and gorse. A few outcrops of sandstone can still be seen in places. Now part of Hastings Country Park.

Des Blenkinsopp

Signpost in the Country Park

Hastings Country Park was set up in 1974. Link

A series of mostly easy going trails with a few steep bits have been laid out through the park's 345 hectares.

Des Blenkinsopp

The Dripping Well

Not exactly a well, more of a rather atmospheric sort of mossy grotto where water drips over an outcrop of sandstone.

Des Blenkinsopp

Footpath Closed, Fairlight Glen

Rock falls along the cliffs have led to the path down to the coast being officially closed, although it looks like a lot of people ignore this notice and carry on anyway.

Des Blenkinsopp

Barn Pond

A small pond in the fields. This is a winter picture showing mostly open water. Other images here show it can be dried up or full of weeds.

Des Blenkinsopp

The Bale House

A new visitor centre and cafe in Hastings Country Park. Straw bales have been used in its construction. Link

Des Blenkinsopp

Cycle Route 2 along Barley Lane

A nice easy section of National Cycle Route 2 which starts in Dover and heads westwards along the south coast. One of the trademark decorative metal signposts is on the verge.

Des Blenkinsopp

A Corner on the Route

The 1066 Country Route and National Cycle Route 2 head off to the left, while an ordinary footpath carries on ahead to the Hastings Country Park visitor centre.

Des Blenkinsopp

Woodland Trail, Fairlight Glen

The path follows the valley of the small stream which runs down to the sea from The Dripping Well.

Des Blenkinsopp

Almost the Saxon Shore Way

On open common like this there are tracks all over the place. This one isn't the waymarked Saxon Shore Way, but it's going in the same direction and only a short distance away. Taken on a dismal wet afternoon when the world looks better in black & white.

Des Blenkinsopp

View from Rocklands Lane

Unsettled weather moving in over the town. Rocklands Lane is a small road coming down from the open land on top of East Hill. It's part of the 1066 Country Walk.

Des Blenkinsopp