The best great views campsites near Ashdown Forest
98% (585) • 179 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Ashdown Forest
Lovebrook
1. Lovebrook
97%
(38)
23km from Ashdown Forest · 6 units
We offer peaceful, back to basics camping on 33 acres of land in the beautiful South Downs village of Kingston. Get back to nature and take in the simple pleasures of the wide-open fields and South Downs views. We have a farm shop and cafe on Saturdays 10-3 as well as Woodiref Sauna sessions from 10-11 & 11-12 and All Levels yoga at 12:30-1:30. There is a great country pub a few steps down the street and we have direct access to the South Downs Way, for amazing hiking and biking.
The 6 grassy tent pitches are spread over a large field with composting loo's, a warm shower and a sink with running water, so there’s a firm back-to-basics vibe. We also offer firepits and wood buddles,( Pre-booking only), Perfect for roasting marshmallows!
Things to do...
Wood-fired Sauna
Join us for a Saturday sauna session or drop us a message for private hire and enjoy some real TLC with facemasks, salt scrubs and if you are feeling brave cold plunge pool.
Events
Join us for one of our retreats or Saturday pop-up events while camping at Lovebrook
See our full calendar via the website
The local pub
The Juggs is our local village pub on The Street, perfect for a bite to eat and a drink in the beer garden
The South Downs Way
Keep walking up The Street and the lane turns into a public footpath that steeply ascends to join the stunning South Downs Way. We love the app Komoot for findng the perfect trail.
Lewes
Lewes is lovely for shopping, cafes and mooching about. Take a scenic walk or call a taxi.
The standing stone
You may have spotted the standing stone on our top field. Feel free to wander up for a panoramic view, and ask us about its story.
Get involved...
We run a quarter acres market garden with regular volunteer days and wellbeing activities, so you may well see us out on the land, and are welcome to join us. Kingston is a peaceful village, so it’s well-suited to quiet, family-friendly breaks with plenty of birdsong and wildlife. check out our website or Instagram for more information
Lovebrook is an ecological community project, so all profits from camping go towards running activities on the land, for underserved or vulnerable groups.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£15
/ night
Chalky Downs
2. Chalky Downs
96%
(605)
26km from Ashdown Forest · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Traditional tent camping in a stunningly-located South Downs farm, just down the road from buzzing Brighton
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£16
/ night
Glassenbury Camping
3. Glassenbury Camping
99%
(65)
31km from Ashdown Forest · 33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Eco camping in the heart of the High Weald and Kent's castle country
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£14
/ night
The Barn KT9
4. The Barn KT9
97%
(271)
40km from Ashdown Forest · 16 units · Tents, Glamping
A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£12
/ night
Small Meadow Campsite
5. Small Meadow Campsite
100%
(18)
45km from Ashdown Forest · 4 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Reconnect with nature, gently.
Welcome to our low-impact, off-grid campsite nestled within a working permaculture fruit and herb farm. Here, a small flock of sheep graze as part of an ongoing project to restore a wildflower meadow. The land is alive with colour, birdsong and butterflies—and you’re invited to experience it at your own peaceful pace.
🌿 Space to breathe
Only two pitches are available at any time (up to 8 people per pitch). Each pitch has:
Private fire pit overlooking wide countryside views
Camping area (with views) on the lower slope near the shower and main compost toilet
Retreat into the woodland strip at the top of the field—perfect for hammocks, hammock tents, shade in summer, quiet chats and listening to the wind through the trees.
🏕️ Extra comfort if the weather turns
Add the large group tent, ideal for gatherings, sleeping or simply escaping the heat.
It includes a yoga deck / flat outdoor space, perfect for truly unwinding.
Looking for a secure field kitchen? We can open the horsebox on the top field (small extra cost). It’s ideal for food storage, camp stoves and gear while you explore beaches and trails.
🌟 Special Exclusive Rental
Hire the entire campsite area for your group
£250 for up to 10 people
up to 10 additional guests at £20 pppn
Make the farm yours.....
🌄 Views worth waking up for:
From the fire pits you’ll see far-reaching countryside views, and just a short walk away on Mountain Field or at The Balehouse (Hastings Country Park café) you’ll find truly breathtaking scenes over Rye Bay.
Nature is the heartbeat here—bluebells in May, orchard blossoms, butterflies drifting through the herbs, and birdsong that wraps around the woodland. At night, the skies open up to the stars; in the morning, you’ll wake to dew-kissed grass and the first rays of sun.
🧘♀️ A slower kind of camping
Bring a yoga mat, greet the day on the deck, cook outdoors, walk the cliffs, or unwind under the trees.
Gather friends and family for a fire, BBQ, or a giant picnic—this field was made for simple, shared moments.
📌 Practical Notes
Working farm: the farmer and WWOOFers are on site in areas separate from camping facilities.
Exclusive use refers to the campsite areas, not the entire farm.
Please bring your own drinking water.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£25
/ night
Littleton Farm Campsite
6. Littleton Farm Campsite
94%
(27)
52km from Ashdown Forest · 20 units
Nestled in a valley on the South Downs Way, Littleton Farm Campsite offers a secluded spot for enjoying the countryside. Welcoming tent campers only, the site offers non electric pitches with plenty of space for everyone to have some peace and quiet. Grab breakfast from the onsite Cadence Cafe, spend days exploring picturesque walking routes and evenings by the campfire. Arundel and Chichester are within 20 minutes drive.
A great base for exploring the South Downs and all that West Sussex has to offer. For events at Goodwood or for walkers and cyclists on the South Downs Way, the site is also an ideal spot for escaping the crowds.
There are 20 non electric grass pitches onsite, each welcoming tents only. Each pitch allows up to six guests, with plenty of space for tents and gazebos with no extra charges other than on a per-person basis. Unloading is allowed by the pitches with parking in the designated car park.
Wake up to fantastic rural views and grab a bite to eat from the onsite cafe, which also serves a delicious cup of coffee. Days can be spent enjoying long walks in beautiful open countryside, exploring the charming nearby towns and villages, or down by the coast, only 25 minutes away.
In the evenings, guests can cook up a BBQ or relax by the campfire.
Please note, the site is dog free.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£17
/ night
The Sunnyfield Campsite
7. The Sunnyfield Campsite
94%
(99)
69km from Ashdown Forest · 24 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Looking for a place where you can camp, glamp and campervan together with friends? The Sunnyfield is the place.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£38
/ night
Old Litten
8. Old Litten
99%
(60)
71km from Ashdown Forest · 1 unit
Nestled atop a serene hill, this idyllic field offers a perfect escape for campers. Blanketed in lush, green grass, the field stretches out under a vast, clear sky, providing panoramic views of the South Downs National Park. Wildflowers in vibrant hues dot the landscape. As the sun goes down, the sky transforms into a canvas of twinkling stars, untouched by city lights. This remote haven, far from the hustle and bustle, is a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility and a deep connection with nature.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
£40
/ night
Penn Meadow Farm
9. Penn Meadow Farm
91%
(233)
81km from Ashdown Forest · 50 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Penn Meadow Farm is a beautiful 145 acre, family farm, nestled perfectly into the Chiltern Hills area of outstanding natural beauty. We’re just a 5 minute walk across our grassy fields to the oldest free-house pub in England (The Royal Standard of England)
Say hello to our resident alpacas, sheep, pigs, pigmy goats, flock of 250 sheep and of course our lovely boarder collies.
We aim to be a very relaxed spot to be able to rest for a few nights and maybe enjoying a nice camp fire in the evening.
The site includes;
Showers and Toilet block with toilet paper stocked.
Open family pitches for you to choose where you want to set up
Running drinking water
Shared open kitchen
Fires allowed
BBQ's allowed
To ensure everyone’s enjoyment and safety, please follow these rules:
Supervise children: Always supervise your children and ensure they do not wander off alone.
Clean up after yourself: Dispose of all waste properly in the designated bins and leave no trace behind. Wash any items you use and return them to where you found them.
Respect other campers: Be courteous to fellow campers and respect their privacy and space.
Pets: If you bring pets, ensure they are well-behaved, kept on a leash or have impeccable recall, and cleaned up after. Do not allow your pet to enter another camper's space.
Quiet time: Maintain quiet hours between 11pm and 7am. All music must stop by 10pm, and noise should be minimal after 11pm.
Campfires: Penn Meadow Farm allows fires; please use existing scorched areas if possible rather than creating new ones. Never leave any fires unattended and ensure they are completely extinguished when finished. Wipe your feet prior to entering the Bell tents to remove any coal that may have become attached.
Cars/vehicles: Cars and vehicles can be on the field but should move minimally and always under 5mph. Car stereos should not be used for music entertainment.
Drugs and Alcohol: Drug use is prohibited, and violators will be asked to leave. Consume alcohol responsibly, and do not drive or move your vehicle after consuming alcohol.
We do not typically book Large non-family groups unless they are seeking a calm and peaceful stay. These groups must have authorization prior to the visit.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£25
/ night
Spring Hill Wild Camping
10. Spring Hill Wild Camping
97%
(89)
104km from Ashdown Forest · 15 units
Spring Hill Wild Camping is a camping site set in the beautiful Hampshire village of St Mary Bourne. Within easy walking distance of the two local pubs, the well stocked village shop and a pick-your-own fruit farm with cafe and play areas.
The campsite aims to be a low impact, environmentally friendly site, providing only the basic necessities for camping; well maintained toilets and clean water.
If you are looking for hot showers and a pool, this is not the campsite for you. If you are looking for beautiful views, countryside walks and open fires Spring Hill Wild Camping is the campsite for you.
Campfires
Potable water
from
£10
/ night
98% (585) • 179 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Ashdown Forest
Lovebrook
1. Lovebrook
97%
(38)
23km from Ashdown Forest · 6 units
We offer peaceful, back to basics camping on 33 acres of land in the beautiful South Downs village of Kingston. Get back to nature and take in the simple pleasures of the wide-open fields and South Downs views. We have a farm shop and cafe on Saturdays 10-3 as well as Woodiref Sauna sessions from 10-11 & 11-12 and All Levels yoga at 12:30-1:30. There is a great country pub a few steps down the street and we have direct access to the South Downs Way, for amazing hiking and biking.
The 6 grassy tent pitches are spread over a large field with composting loo's, a warm shower and a sink with running water, so there’s a firm back-to-basics vibe. We also offer firepits and wood buddles,( Pre-booking only), Perfect for roasting marshmallows!
Things to do...
Wood-fired Sauna
Join us for a Saturday sauna session or drop us a message for private hire and enjoy some real TLC with facemasks, salt scrubs and if you are feeling brave cold plunge pool.
Events
Join us for one of our retreats or Saturday pop-up events while camping at Lovebrook
See our full calendar via the website
The local pub
The Juggs is our local village pub on The Street, perfect for a bite to eat and a drink in the beer garden
The South Downs Way
Keep walking up The Street and the lane turns into a public footpath that steeply ascends to join the stunning South Downs Way. We love the app Komoot for findng the perfect trail.
Lewes
Lewes is lovely for shopping, cafes and mooching about. Take a scenic walk or call a taxi.
The standing stone
You may have spotted the standing stone on our top field. Feel free to wander up for a panoramic view, and ask us about its story.
Get involved...
We run a quarter acres market garden with regular volunteer days and wellbeing activities, so you may well see us out on the land, and are welcome to join us. Kingston is a peaceful village, so it’s well-suited to quiet, family-friendly breaks with plenty of birdsong and wildlife. check out our website or Instagram for more information
Lovebrook is an ecological community project, so all profits from camping go towards running activities on the land, for underserved or vulnerable groups.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£15
/ night
Chalky Downs
2. Chalky Downs
96%
(605)
26km from Ashdown Forest · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Traditional tent camping in a stunningly-located South Downs farm, just down the road from buzzing Brighton
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£16
/ night
Glassenbury Camping
3. Glassenbury Camping
99%
(65)
31km from Ashdown Forest · 33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Eco camping in the heart of the High Weald and Kent's castle country
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£14
/ night
The Barn KT9
4. The Barn KT9
97%
(271)
40km from Ashdown Forest · 16 units · Tents, Glamping
A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£12
/ night
Small Meadow Campsite
5. Small Meadow Campsite
100%
(18)
45km from Ashdown Forest · 4 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Reconnect with nature, gently.
Welcome to our low-impact, off-grid campsite nestled within a working permaculture fruit and herb farm. Here, a small flock of sheep graze as part of an ongoing project to restore a wildflower meadow. The land is alive with colour, birdsong and butterflies—and you’re invited to experience it at your own peaceful pace.
🌿 Space to breathe
Only two pitches are available at any time (up to 8 people per pitch). Each pitch has:
Private fire pit overlooking wide countryside views
Camping area (with views) on the lower slope near the shower and main compost toilet
Retreat into the woodland strip at the top of the field—perfect for hammocks, hammock tents, shade in summer, quiet chats and listening to the wind through the trees.
🏕️ Extra comfort if the weather turns
Add the large group tent, ideal for gatherings, sleeping or simply escaping the heat.
It includes a yoga deck / flat outdoor space, perfect for truly unwinding.
Looking for a secure field kitchen? We can open the horsebox on the top field (small extra cost). It’s ideal for food storage, camp stoves and gear while you explore beaches and trails.
🌟 Special Exclusive Rental
Hire the entire campsite area for your group
£250 for up to 10 people
up to 10 additional guests at £20 pppn
Make the farm yours.....
🌄 Views worth waking up for:
From the fire pits you’ll see far-reaching countryside views, and just a short walk away on Mountain Field or at The Balehouse (Hastings Country Park café) you’ll find truly breathtaking scenes over Rye Bay.
Nature is the heartbeat here—bluebells in May, orchard blossoms, butterflies drifting through the herbs, and birdsong that wraps around the woodland. At night, the skies open up to the stars; in the morning, you’ll wake to dew-kissed grass and the first rays of sun.
🧘♀️ A slower kind of camping
Bring a yoga mat, greet the day on the deck, cook outdoors, walk the cliffs, or unwind under the trees.
Gather friends and family for a fire, BBQ, or a giant picnic—this field was made for simple, shared moments.
📌 Practical Notes
Working farm: the farmer and WWOOFers are on site in areas separate from camping facilities.
Exclusive use refers to the campsite areas, not the entire farm.
Please bring your own drinking water.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£25
/ night
Littleton Farm Campsite
6. Littleton Farm Campsite
94%
(27)
52km from Ashdown Forest · 20 units
Nestled in a valley on the South Downs Way, Littleton Farm Campsite offers a secluded spot for enjoying the countryside. Welcoming tent campers only, the site offers non electric pitches with plenty of space for everyone to have some peace and quiet. Grab breakfast from the onsite Cadence Cafe, spend days exploring picturesque walking routes and evenings by the campfire. Arundel and Chichester are within 20 minutes drive.
A great base for exploring the South Downs and all that West Sussex has to offer. For events at Goodwood or for walkers and cyclists on the South Downs Way, the site is also an ideal spot for escaping the crowds.
There are 20 non electric grass pitches onsite, each welcoming tents only. Each pitch allows up to six guests, with plenty of space for tents and gazebos with no extra charges other than on a per-person basis. Unloading is allowed by the pitches with parking in the designated car park.
Wake up to fantastic rural views and grab a bite to eat from the onsite cafe, which also serves a delicious cup of coffee. Days can be spent enjoying long walks in beautiful open countryside, exploring the charming nearby towns and villages, or down by the coast, only 25 minutes away.
In the evenings, guests can cook up a BBQ or relax by the campfire.
Please note, the site is dog free.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£17
/ night
The Sunnyfield Campsite
7. The Sunnyfield Campsite
94%
(99)
69km from Ashdown Forest · 24 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Looking for a place where you can camp, glamp and campervan together with friends? The Sunnyfield is the place.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£38
/ night
Old Litten
8. Old Litten
99%
(60)
71km from Ashdown Forest · 1 unit
Nestled atop a serene hill, this idyllic field offers a perfect escape for campers. Blanketed in lush, green grass, the field stretches out under a vast, clear sky, providing panoramic views of the South Downs National Park. Wildflowers in vibrant hues dot the landscape. As the sun goes down, the sky transforms into a canvas of twinkling stars, untouched by city lights. This remote haven, far from the hustle and bustle, is a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility and a deep connection with nature.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
£40
/ night
Penn Meadow Farm
9. Penn Meadow Farm
91%
(233)
81km from Ashdown Forest · 50 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Penn Meadow Farm is a beautiful 145 acre, family farm, nestled perfectly into the Chiltern Hills area of outstanding natural beauty. We’re just a 5 minute walk across our grassy fields to the oldest free-house pub in England (The Royal Standard of England)
Say hello to our resident alpacas, sheep, pigs, pigmy goats, flock of 250 sheep and of course our lovely boarder collies.
We aim to be a very relaxed spot to be able to rest for a few nights and maybe enjoying a nice camp fire in the evening.
The site includes;
Showers and Toilet block with toilet paper stocked.
Open family pitches for you to choose where you want to set up
Running drinking water
Shared open kitchen
Fires allowed
BBQ's allowed
To ensure everyone’s enjoyment and safety, please follow these rules:
Supervise children: Always supervise your children and ensure they do not wander off alone.
Clean up after yourself: Dispose of all waste properly in the designated bins and leave no trace behind. Wash any items you use and return them to where you found them.
Respect other campers: Be courteous to fellow campers and respect their privacy and space.
Pets: If you bring pets, ensure they are well-behaved, kept on a leash or have impeccable recall, and cleaned up after. Do not allow your pet to enter another camper's space.
Quiet time: Maintain quiet hours between 11pm and 7am. All music must stop by 10pm, and noise should be minimal after 11pm.
Campfires: Penn Meadow Farm allows fires; please use existing scorched areas if possible rather than creating new ones. Never leave any fires unattended and ensure they are completely extinguished when finished. Wipe your feet prior to entering the Bell tents to remove any coal that may have become attached.
Cars/vehicles: Cars and vehicles can be on the field but should move minimally and always under 5mph. Car stereos should not be used for music entertainment.
Drugs and Alcohol: Drug use is prohibited, and violators will be asked to leave. Consume alcohol responsibly, and do not drive or move your vehicle after consuming alcohol.
We do not typically book Large non-family groups unless they are seeking a calm and peaceful stay. These groups must have authorization prior to the visit.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£25
/ night
Spring Hill Wild Camping
10. Spring Hill Wild Camping
97%
(89)
104km from Ashdown Forest · 15 units
Spring Hill Wild Camping is a camping site set in the beautiful Hampshire village of St Mary Bourne. Within easy walking distance of the two local pubs, the well stocked village shop and a pick-your-own fruit farm with cafe and play areas.
The campsite aims to be a low impact, environmentally friendly site, providing only the basic necessities for camping; well maintained toilets and clean water.
If you are looking for hot showers and a pool, this is not the campsite for you. If you are looking for beautiful views, countryside walks and open fires Spring Hill Wild Camping is the campsite for you.
Campfires
Potable water
from
£10
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
c
chris
3 weeks ago
Tent
A quiet and relaxing location..... exactly what I was looking for!
See more
S
Siubhan
November 2025
Tent
Amazing views over the hills with red kites, gorgeous horses in the next door field and really friendly sheep dogs. Gorgeous shower block which make you feel like you’re in a boutique hotel! 200m walk to fantastic pub with great food and fires. Can’t wait to go back
See more
O
Oscar
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
Charlotte’s land was a brilliant spot perfectly located with a beautiful view. Had everything we needed for our one night stay and we had a great time thanks to it.
See more
I
Ian
October 2025
Tent
With pets
What an incredible find!
Lovely views, lovely people nearby and the host was so friendly and welcoming.
We will absolutely be back!
See moreH
Harry
October 2025
Tent
A great camp and we would definitely stay here again!
See more
G
Geert
October 2025
Tent
A truly beautiful place to stay – so charming and full of character. And then there’s Charlotte, the hostess: such a warm and welcoming person, with a genuine passion that shines through in her wonderful camper spot. The surrounding region is perfect for both walking and gravel riding. For food and drinks, head to the pub just around the corner (“The Pub with No Name” aka The White Horse). It’s incredibly authentic and serves excellent cuisine.
See more
A
Andrew
October 2025
Tent
Excellent spot. Big field with individual plots, most had benches. Excellent pub a short walk down the hill.
See more
T
Ty
October 2025
Tent
Great views, simple back to basic's camping. Friendly host, would highly recommend
See more
K
Katie
October 2025
Tent
The space is really beautiful and the views are great. It has very basic amenities but it’s the kind of place I like. Being next door to the animals was also a great and entertaining bonus. It’s a short walk to the local village entirely down forest paths if you wish, with a fantastic pub.
It’s a particularly nice place to stay out of season when the autumn colours settle in.
See more
R
Ross
October 2025
Tent
Lovely site for nearly wild camping, had the place all to ourselves, and the view was incredible. Charlotte was a lovely and helpful host, would definitely recommend.
If it helps anyone find the site in future, the what3words is ///deeper.perfumes.hiked
See more
C
Charlie
September 2025
Tent
Excellent site, so relaxing and beautiful: just as described. Cannot recommend highly enough, will definitely return and highly recommend
See more
M
Mark
September 2025
Tent
Beautiful, landscape and views. In a very friendly rural farm environment. One gets a great feeling of back to nature. I shall be a regular visitor there, when I need to escape. Each pitch is well spaced out, so very private.
See more
R
Ryan
September 2025
Tent
Group trip
It is well organised, easy to access and you really do feel you are in the countryside/out in the wide open spaces. I highly recommend this site and aim to be back very soon!
See more
P
Paul
September 2025
4 m Class B
With pets
Our host was very friendly and helpful. Facilities were fine, clean and tidy. You will probably need some ramps if you want to be completely level but wasn’t a problem for us.
See more
S
Suzie
September 2025
Tent
We had an amazing weekend at lovebrook, everything was super easy and the views were amazing! We loved the sauna session too and would highly recommend! Would love to come back
See more
L
Liam
September 2025
Tent
Had such a great stay at The Barn!!
Such a lovely campsite and it has everything you need for a relaxing stay! There are great walks in the local area and the on site cafe had amazing pastries!
Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a peaceful break!
See moreM
Millie
September 2025
Tent
Great campsite, really peaceful, beautiful views and great amenities.
See more
E
Emily
September 2025
Tent
I loved the location and that their is loads of space to pitch your tent. It is really emmersed in nature, you wake up to the birds chirping and pheasants. I love that you can have a campfire and that they even supply the wood logs to you att a cost!
The evening sky was beautiful and the grass is lushes and green.
There are porta loos and sinks spaced out around the camping area with drinkable water but the showers are right near the car park, which is a bit of walk.
It rained when I was there but it didn't ruin my experience, it was quite nice being in my tent hearing the rain outside.
The cars are parked in the car park, once you have unloaded and set up.
I would definitely recommend Tania's place to stay.
See more
N
Nina
September 2025
Tent
Me and my partner stayed at Chalky downs for 2 nights for a little get away ✨. Sharen’s land is beautiful, everyone is so friendly and we even got to order a sausage bacon and egg bap with tea and coffee in the morning! ☀️. We went into Brighton town for a bit of shopping and to see the sea, only a 14 minute drive and we parked in the station car park 👏🏼. Would 100% recommend and will definitely be going back! Thank you so much. 🫶🏼
See more
Marie
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Great campsite pub walking distance. We had a great time. Farm for kids.
See moreAshdown Forest camping guide
Where to go
Wych Cross & West Ashdown Forest
Whether you fancy cycling over the hills, tracking down Roman ruins, or a long hike with a country pub at the end, Ashdown Forest is a back-to-nature delight. The villages of Wych Cross and Crowborough mark its western and eastern flanks. The perfect place to start your explorations is the official Forest Centre near Wych Cross, which has the lowdown on the best woodland walking and archaeology routes, as well as paths weaving straight out into the heath with its dazzling North Downs views.
North Ashdown Forest
Renowned English author AA Milne once lived on the northern fringes of Ashdown Forest, near Hartfield and Forest Row, and campers will love following in his footsteps through its eerie wooded expanses. Some of Milne’s most popular “Winnie the Pooh” locations dot the area, including a bridge across the River Medway and the misty 500 Acre Wood, with walking trails meandering between them. In addition, local operators also offer horse rides, cycling routes run through beech forests, and delicious farm shops sit ready for stocking up on local treats.
South Ashdown Forest
Some of Ashdown Forest’s most thrilling hiking trails sprawl around the villages of Duddleswell and Nutley, on the southern fringes. History lovers will want to tackle the route to a World War II memorial, while photographers should take in the fabulous panoramas across the South Downs to the chalk-cliff coastline. The camping and glamping sites sprinkled near here are among the area’s best—set up camp on an organic farm or a cider orchard, or book into an off-grid yurt.
High Weald AONB
Beyond Ashdown Forest, the High Weald AONB sprawls from Winchester in Hampshire to Hastings on the East Sussex coast. It’s packed with adventure activities, whether you’re keen to hike around the heathlands, kayak across a lake, or try some SUP yoga.
