Ashdown Forest
Six and a half thousand acres of enchanted forest and heathland, the Ashdown Forest is one of England's surviving primeval wonders. Rich in heritage, the forest lays claim to an array of treasurers from medieval pottery to the first ever blast furnace in Britain as well as playing a vital role in training Canadian troops stationed nearby during WW2.
Originally a deer hunting forest in Norman times, Ashdown Forest is now the largest free public access space in the South East. It is a great place for walking and enjoying spectacular views over the Sussex countryside and is known the world over as the 'home' of Winnie-the-Pooh.
From deep within the ferns and heather spring streams, enjoyed by the wildlife and providing inspiration for artists, authors and lovers of the countryside. Walkers enjoy the tranquillity of tiny villages with their traditional Sussex pubs serving hearty food and local ale. The Ashdown Llama Park, Barnsgate Manor Vineyard, the Bluebell Railway and Sheffield Park Gardens are just some of the local attractions.
The Forest is at the heart of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has national and international protection because of its wildlife. Nearly two thirds of its 6500 acres (2500 hectares) are heathland, amounting to 2.5% of the UK's extent of this rare habitat. The Forest Centre is the headquarters of the Conservators of Ashdown Forest who are responsible for the managing the Forest.
The Forest Centre acts as both an information centre for visitors and also an office for the Conservators of Ashdown Forest. The Information Centre often has exhibitions of all sorts including local artists, photographers and other events.
