Welcome to Ashdown Forest

The Ashdown Forest is located between London and the South Coast on the High Weald and covers 6,500 acres of stunning heathland, which stretches across Surrey, Sussex and Kent. It is an area of special scientific interest and an area of outstanding natural beauty, providing a unique habitat for a wide range of rare plants (including orchids), birds and wildlife. Ashdown Forest has had a fascinating and varied history from the early production of iron to its use as King Henry VIIIth’s royal hunting ground. Deer still roam freely across the area and there are now sheep and cattle grazing within the fenced boundaries. Local villages such as Chelwood Gate and Chuck Hatch take their names from the old entrances to the forest which used to be closed to “commoners”.

Across the Forest there is a superb variety of accommodation from camp sites and small bed and breakfasts to 5 star international hotels, country pubs and Michelin star restaurants. There are antique shops, arts centres, farm shops, unique retail outlets, National Trust sites, tea shops and various large attractions to explore. The extensive range of activities available include walking (with or without a llama), orienteering, cycling, bushcraft, golf, climbing, archery and even milking cows. In fact there is something for everyone whether your stay is for a day, a weekend, or much longer.

Take some time to explore the many exciting activities that are listed on this website. Whether you are looking for a romantic weekend away, an opportunity to relax and unwind or a family activity holiday, there is something for everyone in the Ashdown Forest. If you are stuck for ideas, explore ‘Plan Your Stay’ which provides a range of suggested days out. Visit the Events listing to find out what is happening across the Forest or use the extensive search facility to find a range of information from what is available within a specific location to which accommodation accepts dogs.

Enjoy your visit. Ashdown Forest is so much more than a walk in the country!