Walking

Welcome to our collection of self-guided walks in Kent and Sussex, showcasing the very best of this outstanding landscape.

The High Weald has an amazing network of footpaths, bridleways and byways to explore – 2,570km in total!

From families with young children to avid ramblers and everyone in-between, this precious landscape has something for everyone to enjoy.

You can explore the area’s ancient woodland, fields and heaths at your own pace with a range of downloadable self-guided walks, including easy-access routes that are both buggy and wheelchair friendly. If you’re after a challenge, why not take on the iconic 95-mile High Weald Landscape Trail?

In September, join our annual High Weald Walking Festival and choose from a programme of free themed walks led by knowledgeable guides.

The AONB is also home to a number of tranquil nature reserves, owned and managed by the RSPB, Wildlife Trusts, Woodland Trust, National Trust and local community groups.

Use the interactive map to explore a specific area or choose from the options below.

Happy walking!

2,570km

of public rights of way in the High Weald AONB!

FILTER

Things to do


Places to visit

Holmbush Game

Boxed venison Fallow/Muntjac/Roe. Butchered, boxed and labeled.

Sterling Venison

Introducing Sterling Venison. A small meat business committed to supplying local customers with top quality meat. All our meat is hand processed throughout and produced to an exacting standard. Sterling Venison believes in responsible and sustainable harvesting that prioritise the welfare of wild animals, environmental stewardship, and the health of our customers. Wild deer are fed a natural diet, and are never subjected to hormones or antibiotics. Deer harvested in their natural environment don’t suffer the associated stress of the abattoir. We ensure transparency and traceability throughout our food chain ‘from field to fork’. By choosing Sterling Venison, you can savour delicious, high-quality meat while supporting a business that prioritises ethics, sustainability, and the well-being of wild animals. Visit website

M & M Venison

Supplier of Fallow Deer venison that has been culled in the Ashdown Forest area and butchered in Sussex ready for eating.

Our Butcher can cut the animal as you wish and many buyers take the whole animal, cut to their requirements and vacuum packed.

Buying the whole animal is very cost effective and only takes one vehicle trip so good for the planet .

Otways Meat and Game

Our wild venison is ethically sourced by our in-house deer management team from a number of estates in the South East.

Since we opened our doors, Otways Meat and Game has become an integral part of the local community. We started the business after realising it wasn’t always easy to source the highest-quality fresh, local venison. We’ve worked hard to build strong relationships with our incredible clients; come and explore our busy butchery and discover the true meaning of delicious.

Ali Otway
07827 932 155
Contact: alison@otwaysmeatandgame.com

Visit website

Kieron’s Game

Independent local stalker. Can provide sustainable local game, butchered and delivered. Venison, Pheasant, Rabbit, Pigeon and more. Find me at Groombridge Farm Shop, Fridays 9am-12 noon. Can supply direct to Tonbridge, Fordcombe, Penshurst, Groombridge, Hartfield, Forest Row, East Grinstead.

Penns Estate Venison LTD

Deer Management Provider with two deer larders; one at Crowborough and the other Turners Hill.

Eridge Park Venison

Eridge Park Venison is a venison business supplying both wild and park deer at Eridge Park, belonging to Lord Christopher Nevill. The deer park is the oldest deer park in England, recorded as King Henry VIII’s favourite hunting ground. For enquiries please contact Scott at sbenton997@gmail.com Insta: @eridgeparkvenison Visit website

Holmbush Game

Boxed venison Fallow/Muntjac/Roe. Butchered, boxed and labeled.

Halfway to a homestead

A smallholding run by Cameron and Jess who supply high quality wholesome venison sourced from the local area as part of ongoing management plans. Our goal is to encourage a low waste system using as much of the animal as possible, and to encourage venison as a healthy and readily available source of meat available to everyone. As well as the venison, we are growing their own garden vegetables and flowers, which they also hope to provide to customers in the future. For all the latest news follow us on Instagram at @halfwaytoahomestead. Visit website

Sustainable Meat Eater

Wild venison harvested in the Kent, Sussex and Surrey countryside. Expertly prepared and delivered to your door.
Contact 07733278574

Visit website

Yew House Bed & Breakfast

Bed and breakfast accommodation in Crowborough, East Sussex. 

Visit website

Wowo campsite

Yurt camping at Sheffield Park in mid Sussex

Visit website

White Vine House

Restaurant with bed and breakfast accommodation in Rye, East Sussex

Visit website

White Lion

Luxury Inn accommodation in Tenterden

Visit website

White Horse Inn

Bed and breakfast accommodation in Cranbrook, Kent

Visit website

Wheatsheaf Inn

Inn accommodation in Cuckfield, West Sussex

Visit website

Well Cottage

Bed and breakfast accommodation near Hawkhurst in Kent

Visit website

Waters End Farm

Self catering and bed and breakfast accommodation near Cranbrook, Kent

Visit website

Three Chimneys Farm

Oast house bed and breakfast in Goudhurst, Kent

Visit website

The Stables, Home Farm

Self catering farm stay near Uckfield, East Sussex

Visit website

The Regent Motel

Accommodation in the centre of Rye, East Sussex

Visit website

The Regency Hotel

Hotel accommodation in Worth, near Crawley

Visit website

The Queens Inn

Inn accommodation in Hawkhurst, Kent

Visit website

The Potting Shed

The Potting Shed is a small Kent barn, once used as the potting shed by Capt Collingwood Ingram

Visit website

The Playden Oasts Inn

Hotel accommodation near Rye

Visit website

The Pantiles Place

Holiday cottage in the centre of Tunbridge Wells, Kent

Visit website

The Original Hut Company

Self catering glamping huts in Bodiam, East Sussex

Visit website

The Old Workshop

Two bedroom holiday cottage in the rural heart of East Sussex

Visit website

The Mermaid Inn

Inn accommodation in the centre of Rye, East Sussex

Visit website

The Leicester Arms Hotel

Hotel accommodation in Penshurst near Tunbridge Wells, Kent

Visit website

The Holt

Bed and breakfast accommodation in Benenden

Visit website

The Hare and Hounds

A 16th century pub and restaurant with B&B accommodation

Visit website

The George

Luxury hotel in Rye, East Sussex

Visit website

The Corner House

Bed and breakfast accommodation near Rye

Visit website

The Cider House

Traditional bed and breakfast cottage near Ardingly, West Sussex

Visit website

The Chequers Inn Hotel

A Hotel in the centre of Forest Row, close to Ashdown Forest

Visit website

The Bull Inn

En suite accommodation in Brenchley, Kent

Visit website

The Bell

Luxury bed and breakfast in a pub in Ticehurst, East Sussex

Visit website

The Abbey Hotel

Inn accommodation in Battle, East Sussex

Visit website

Tanner Farm Park

A caravan and camping park near Goudhurst, Kent

Visit website

Swallowtail Hill

Tents and cottages near Rye

Visit website

St Ives Farm campsite

Campsite on a farm at Hartfield on the Ashdown Forest

Visit website

Spring Farm Alpacas

Luxury self catering on an Alpaca farm

Visit website

South Lodge Hotel

Hotel near Horsham, West Sussex

Visit website

Slides Farm

Luxury B&B accommodation

Visit website

Senlac Wood campsite

Caravan and camping site near to Battle, East Sussex

Visit website

Rye Lodge Hotel

An elegant luxury hotel in the centre of Rye, East Sussex

Visit website

Roebuck Hotel

Hotel on the edge of Ashdown Forest in East Sussex

Visit website

Powdermills Hotel

18th century country house hotel accommodation near Battle, East Sussex

Visit website

Park Farm Caravan and Camping

Caravan and campsite set in the heart of the Sussex countryside

Visit website

Owlsbury Park campsite

Quiet campsite near Crowborough for adults only

Visit website

Ostrich Hotel

B&B accommodation in a public house 

Visit website

Orchard Way B&B

Bed and breakfast accommodation in Hawkhurst, Kent

Visit website

Ockenden Manor

A spa hotel in Cuckfield, West Sussex

Visit website

Oasthouse Loft

Luxury self catering in Northiam

Visit website

Newells Farm

Three self catering holiday cottages

Visit website

Mount Pleasant Farm

Farmhouse bed and breakfast in Guestling, East Sussex

Visit website

Manor Farm

Oast house bed and breakfast near Winchelsea, East Sussex

Visit website

Lordine Court Caravan and Camping

Camping and caravan park near Hastings

Visit website

London Beach Country Hotel

Hotel and spa

Visit website

Little Tidebrook Farm

Farmhouse accommodation near Wadhurst, East Sussex

Visit website

LIttle Silver Country Hotel

AA 3 star rated hotel

Visit website

Little Halden Farm

Cranbrook Yurt holidays in Kent

Visit website

Little Dodges B&B

Luxurious and peaceful bed and breakfast near Goudhurst, Kent

Visit website

Little Dodges

Self catering holiday cottage at Goudhurst in Kent

Visit website

Little Dane Court

Bed & Breakfast in the centre of Tenterden

Visit website

Leggs Field Barn

Country Holiday lets near to Crowborough, East Sussex

Visit website

Kingshoath Cottage

Self catering cottage for up to 8 people in Beckley, East Sussex

Visit website

Jeake’s House

Elegant hotel accommodation in Rye, East Sussex

Visit website

Iwood B&B

Bed and breakfast cottage in Heathfield, East Sussex

Visit website

Hook Farm camping

Farm campsite in West Hoathly, West Sussex

Visit website

Hononton Cottage

Historic bed and breakfast near Tunbridge Wells, Kent

Visit website

Holly House

Bed and breakfast on Ashdown Forest

Visit website

Hoads Farm B&B

Farmhouse bed and breakfast in Sandhurst, Kent

Visit website

Hidden Spring

Campsite on a rural smallholding near Heathfield, East Sussex

Visit website

Hawthbush Farm

Self catering farmstay in Chiddingly, East Sussex

Visit website

Hare Farm Oast/Hideaways

Sussex Oast house accommodation near Rye

Visit website

Hallwood Farm Oast House

Oast House bed and breakfast near Cranbrook, Kent

Visit website

Great Prawls Farm

Self catering cottages

Visit website

Gravetye Manor

Country House Hotel near East Grinstead, West Sussex

Visit website

Glencoe Farm

Farm bed and breakfast in Rye, East Sussex

Visit website

Forest Garden, Shovelstrode

Yurt camping set in woodland

Visit website

Flackley Ash Hotel

Country House Hotel on the outskirts of Rye, East Sussex

Visit website

Fair Oak Farm

Tree house accommodation near Mayfield, East Sussex

Visit website

Eco camp uk

Eco forest camping near Horsted Keynes, West Sussex

Visit website

Dernwood Farm

Wild camping near Heathfield in East Sussex

Visit website

Danehurst House

Bed and breakfast close to Tunbridge Wells, Kent

Visit website

Crown Inn

Bed and breakfast accommodation in a pub in Groombridge, Kent

Visit website

Crowhurst Park

Self catering holiday park in East Sussex

Visit website

Cranston House

Bed and breakfast accommodation in East Grinstead

Visit website

Cranesden Farm

Self catering barn on a farm in Mayfield, East Sussex

Visit website

Courtland Nurseries B&B

Rural bed and breakfast in Sharpthorne, West Sussex

Visit website

Coldharbour Cottage

Self catering cottage in Stone in Oxney

Visit website

Cleeve Lodge

Self catering accommodation close to Ashdown Forest

Visit website

Cisswood House Hotel

Luxury country hotel in Lower Beeding, West Sussex

Visit website

Church House B&B

Georgian house bed and breakfast in Burwash, East Sussex

Visit website

Bull Farm Oast

Bed and breakfast in an Oast house

Visit website

Brickwall Hotel

Hotel accommodation in Sedlescombe, near Battle, East Sussex

Visit website

Brantridge Park

Luxury self catering apartments in an historic building in Balcombe, West Sussex

Visit website

Brambletye Manor Barn

Converted bed and breakfast barn near Forest Row in East Sussex

Visit website

Brambletye Hotel

Bed and breakfast in a hotel with restaurant

Visit website

Brakes Coppice Park

Campsite near Battle

Visit website

Bodiam boating station

Camping by the river rother on the Kent/Sussex border

Visit website

Belle Croix

Self catering accommodation in Crowborough, East Sussex

Visit website

Bedgebury camping

Campsite near Bedgebury Pinetum

Visit website

Bathurst

Bed and breakfast

Visit website

Barons Grange B & B

Elegant bed and breakfast accommodation in Iden, near Rye

Visit website

Barefoot Yurts

Self catering in traditional Mongolian Yurts

Visit website

Bardown Farm Cottages

Stonegate self catering cottage in East Sussex

Visit website

Ashdown Park Hotel

Hotel in the heart of Ashdown Forest

Visit website

Allen’s Farm Oast

Self catering oast house accommodation near Mayfield, East Sussex

Visit website

Trails by Rail: Robertsbridge

Discover the pretty, historic village of Robertsbridge, walking across farmland and through ancient woodland with fantastic views across the High Weald landscape.

This 5-mile walks starts and ends at Robertsbridge train station. Please note this is a hilly route with 17 stiles.

Look out for an oast house, ancient trees, streams and historic buildings on the way.

  • Parking: pay and display parking at Robertsbridge Station or a few long stay places free at the public car park, Station Road.
  • Refreshments: Judges Bakery on the High Street and the George Inn. Village shop
Get walking!

Fox & Fox – Mayfield English Wine

English sparkling wines produced in the heart of the High Weald.

Visit website

Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard

Organic and biodynamic wines

Visit website

Wild Flower Barn

Wild flower plants and seeds for sale

Visit website

Wilderness Wood

Sweet chestnut products from coppice woodland

Visit website

The Weald Smokery

Top class smokery offering a wide range of products

Visit website

Sussex Smokers

Smoked meats and fish

Visit website

Tottingworth Farm Shop

Farm shop with a range of local produced meats and other products

Visit website

Tibbs Farm

Soft fruit farm offering PYO, plus a café serving farm to fork food with stunning views.

Visit website

Traditional Cheese Dairy

Award winning local artisan cheeses

Visit website

The Old Dairy Farm and shop

Farm shop selling home made and local products

Visit website

Tablehurst Farm Shop

Farm shop

Visit website

Sussex Willow

A range of willow products; baskets and garden structures

Visit website

Roundwood Construction

High quality oak craftsmanship

Visit website

Rother Valley Brewing

Local beers

Visit website

Ringden Farm

Growers of top quality fruit and juices

Visit website

Powdermill Wood

A range of coppice chestnut products, including chestnut fencing and garden products

Visit website

Plaw Hatch Farm Shop

Farm shop

Visit website

Planters Farm Shop

A farm shop and garden centre selling a wide range of products plus a café swerving delicious home cooked food

Visit website

Pippins Farm Orchards

A variety of traditional orchard fruits

Visit website

Perry Hill Orchard Farm Shop

Farm shop selling own juices and ciders and a range of other products

Visit website

Owlet

Fruit juices from own orchard fruit

Visit website

Oast Farm

Farm shop and pick your own

Visit website

Mole End Farms Ltd

Organic fruit farm

Visit website

Maynards Fruit Farm

Pick your own fruit farm

Visit website

Matthew Bayman

Original and unique pottery

Visit website

Loder Plants

Azaleas, Camellias and Rhododendron nursery

Visit website

Lambs Sussex Sandstone

Handmade bricks and natural stone

Visit website

Kelly Bronze Turkeys

Free range turkeys

Visit website

Hunts Sussex Cider

Micro brewery selling cider made from organically grown apples - vegan friendly and gluten free.

Visit website

Hoopers Farm

Traditionally reared Sussex beef

Visit website

Homestead Farm

Meat and meat products produced on the farm

Visit website

Hinxden Farm Dairy

Dairy products

Visit website

High Weald Dairy

Award-winning Organic dairy producing cheese and milk

Visit website

Hidden Spring

Smallholding producing meat and juice/cider

Visit website

Harveys Brewery

The Sussex Brewers

Visit website

Harrington Foods

Sauce and salad dressing producers - made to a secret recipe!

Visit website

Great Park Farm Nursery

Small family run plant nursery and farm shop

Visit website

Fuller’s Farm Shop

Full range of locally sourced meats and other farm shop produce

Visit website

Fridays Ltd

Fresh eggs, sandwich fillings and salads

Visit website

Firebird Forge

A traditional blacksmith offering personally designed, hand forged, ironwork for home and garden.

Visit website

Batts Farm

Free Range Eggs

Visit website

English Woodlands

Suppliers of trees, plants and planting accessories

Visit website

Davenport Vineyards

High quality and organic English wines

Visit website

Copford Farm Sawmill

Sawn green oak

Visit website

Cherry Gardens Farm

Organic farm shop

Visit website

Chapel Down Winery

Producers of wines and beers

Visit website

Carr Taylor vineyard

Still, sparkling and fruit wine producer

Visit website

Bangers Galore

Hand made sausages from twice National Sausage making champion

Visit website

Aragon Farm Lamb

Freezer lamb from a flock of Romney Marsh sheep

Visit website

Westerham Brewery

A local brewery

Visit website

The Truggery

The only remaining trugmaker in Herstmonceux, the home of trugs

Visit website

Laines Organic Farm

Organic seasonal fruit and vegetables

Visit website

Tate Fencing

Gate and fencing manufacturers

Visit website

Horsegrove Farm

Rare breed, homegrown beef, lamb and pork – only 20 food miles form start to finish!

Visit website

Silcocks Farm Shop

High quality organic meat and dairy produce

Visit website

Rustic Crafts Workshop

Quality bespoke country furniture

Visit website

Rentacherrytree

Rent a cherry tree on an annual basis from a Kent Orchard

Visit website

Ouse Valley Foods

Artisan food company producing jams, chutneys and jellies

Visit website

Old Spot Farm Shop

Farm shop

Visit website

Ockford Farm

Real Fruit - natural farming

Visit website

Northiam Dairy

Fresh and cultured dairy products

Visit website

Korker’s Sausages

Producers of local fresh pork sausages

Visit website

Green Wood Craftsmen

Rustic Garden structures made from locally cut sweet chestnut coppice Visit website

Farnell Farm

Producers of wild bluebell seed and Kentish cobnuts

Visit website

Egypt Farm Sausages

Quality pork sausages, bacon and burgers

Visit website

Elena Nature Collection

Natural organic eczema cream and psoriasis cream

Visit website

Downingbury Farm

Farm shop and pick your own

Visit website

Dernwood Farm

Farm shop selling own meat and other goods

Visit website

Cyrnel Bakery

Excellent village bakery

Visit website

Mannswood Coppice Products

A variety of coppice wood products

Visit website

Bolney Estate wines

Award winning red, white and sparkling English wines

Visit website

Bluebell Vineyard Estates

Home to the Hindleap range of internationally acclaimed English Sparkling Wines, handmade by the traditional method in East Sussex.

Visit website

Biddenden Vineyards

Vineyard shop selling wines, ciders and juices, also other local products

Visit website

Treespanner Timber Company

Woodland management and providers of timber

Visit website

The Laurels Nursery

Nursery specialising in Birch and Wisteria

Visit website

High Weald Furniture

Quality furniture from sustainable British woodlands

Visit website

Sussex Fruit Trees

Wide range of locally-grown fruit trees for sale

Visit website

Hen on the Gate farm shop

Organic farm shop

Visit website

Harbourne Vineyard

 Small family run vineyard and winery

Visit website

Charles Thomson

Fine furniture designer and maker

Visit website

Bosney Farm

Organic lamb producer

Visit website

Speldhurst Sausages

Famous sausages using quality traditional ingredients

Visit website

Renhurst Farm

Farm shop specialising in home grown meat

Visit website

Diamond Fibres

The worsted spinners in south east England

Visit website

Merriments Gardens and Nursery

Four acres of display gardens and nursery

East Hill Lift

A funicular railway from the beach to Hastings Country Park

Winchelsea Court Hall Museum

The Court Hall Museum contains displays and exhibits that illustrate the history of the ‘Ancient Town of Winchelsea’.

Winchelsea Cellars

Fascinating tours of Winchelsea's famous medieval cellars - booking essential

Union Mill

Tallest surviving 'smock mill' in the UK.

The C M Booth Collection

Unique collection of vintage Morgan 3-wheel cars and more

Stocks Mill

Grade II listed Post windmill - open by appointment

Nutley Windmill

Last open trestle post mill in Sussex - open by appointment

Brede Steam Giants

Brede Water heritage site;with two of its original triple expansion steam engines housed in Grade II listed buildings.

Battle Museum of Local History

Local town museum

Ashdown Forest Visitor Centre

Visitor centre to Ashdown Forest

The Windmill at Windmill Hill

A fully restored windmill with something for the whole family

The Amelia Scott

A newly-renovated museum, library and arts facility, with regular exhibitions and events linked to the history and heritage of the area.

The Observatory Science Centre

Astronomical science centre

Tenterden Museum

Town museum

Rye Heritage Centre

Heritage displays about Rye

Rye Castle Museum

Local town museum

Horsham Museum and Art Gallery

Local town museum and art gallery

Hastings Museum and Art Gallery

Local town museum

Eden Valley Museum

Local town museum

East Grinstead Museum

Local town museum

Cuckfield Museum

Local town museum

Wakehurst Place

Ornamental gardens, woodland and garden walks

Standen

Arts and crafts house and garden

Sissinghurst Castle

Historic castle surrounded by formal gardens

Sheffield Park and Garden

Acres of landscape garden bordered by historic parkland and woodland

Scotney Castle

Romantic garden, 14th century moated castle - all in a beautiful wooded estate

The Priest House & Gardens

15th century Wealden hall house with a traditional cottage garden

Penshurst Place and gardens

Historic house and gardens

Pashley Manor Gardens

A quintessential English garden

Nymans

20th-century garden, set around a romantic house and ruins, in beautiful woodland

Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens

Historic garden with wallaby enclosure

King John’s Nursery and Gardens

Gardens and nursery

Hole Park Gardens

15 acre privately owned garden

High Beeches Gardens

27 acres of woodland and water gardens

Hever Castle

Medieval Castle and gardens with a variety of 'things to do'

Hammerwood Park

Guided tours of house and musical events

Groombridge Place Gardens

Award winning gardens and enchanted forest

Chiddingstone Castle

Historic house filled with exotic treasures

Borde Hill Garden

Historic gardens

Bodiam Castle

Archetypal 14th-century moated castle with ruined interior - a glimpse of medieval splendour

Bayham Old Abbey

Atmospheric Abbey ruins

Battle Abbey

1066 battlefield site and abbey ruins

Batemans

Historic house and gardens

Ashburnham Place

Lake walk for Orangery Tea Room visitors

Sackville College

Beautiful Jacobean Almshouse, open to the public by pre-booked appointment

Lamb House

Georgian house with literacy associations

Spa Valley Railway

Steam railway running between Tunbridge Wells and Eridge

Bluebell Railway

Preserved steam trains running through the heart of Sussex

Wilderness Wood

Woodland attraction with lots to do

Horam Manor Farm

Farm museum, nature trails and other attractions

Chapel Down Winery

Vineyard tours

Carr Taylor Wines

Vineyard tours

Tulleys Farm

A fourth-generation family-run farm attraction and retailer, holding regular seasonal events

Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest

Forest walks, cycle tracks and other woodland activities

Bewl Water Country Park

Watersports and other activities set around a reservoir

Ardingly Activity Centre

Take part in exhilarating watersports on a picturesque reservoir

Spring Farm Alpaca walking

Alpaca walking in the High Weald countryside

Visit website

Carr Taylor Vineyard

Vineyard tours

Visit website

Wildwood Bushcraft

Bushcraft courses

Visit website

Biddenden Vineyards

Vineyards tours at one of Kent's premier wineries

Bowles Outdoor Centre

Outdoor learning centre

Visit website

East Sussex Falconry

Falconry experience days

Visit website

Nuts 4 Climbing

Rock climbing courses near Tunbridge Wells, Kent

Visit website

Bodiam Boating Station

Ferry rides to Bodiam Castle, rowing boat and kayak hire

Visit website

Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard

Tours around a biodynamic vineyard

Visit website

Allen’s Farm Oast

Self catering oast house accommodation near Mayfield, East Sussex Visit website

Gary’s Goats

These are the best goats in town! Get a goat

Worth Way – Circular routes

A selection of circular walks on the Worth Way, which runs from Three Bridges in Crawley to East Grinstead where it connects up with the Forest Way.

Get walking!

Woods Corner walk

A 3.5 mile circular walk around Woods Corner and Dallington

Get walking!

Walks in Kent – Edenbridge

A 3 mile circular route around Edenbridge

Get walking!

Walks around Rye Harbour

A selection of different length walks around Rye Harbour nature reserve

Get walking!

Trails by Rail: Winchelsea

A 6.5 mile circular walk exploring Winchelsea and surrounding farmland, starting and finishing at the train station. Enjoy fantastic views of the Brede river valley and across Pett Levels to the sea.

Please note this route includes 11 stiles.

Parking: parking bays on the A259 near the junction of Station Road. Start the walk at that junction.
Refreshments: The New Inn at Winchelsea and village store.

Get walking!

Trails by Rail: Wadhurst

Enjoy a 5.5 mile circular walk down through wooded valleys, along historic pathways and over farmland with spectacular views across the rolling hills and medieval fields of the High Weald AONB.

This walk starts and ends at Wadhurst train station. Look out for ponds, ancient woodland and sunken routeways.

  • Parking: pay and display parking at Wadhurst Station.
  • Refreshments: None nearby, lots of choice at Wadhurst
    village (1 mile)
Get walking!

Trails by Rail: Eridge

A 5.5 mile circular walk around Eridge and Harrisons Rocks, starting and ending at Eridge station. Enjoy a walk across gently rolling hills with views across wooded valleys.

A highlight is Harrisons Rocks, a spectacular sandstone outcrop which is one of the largest in the AONB. Oast houses, WW2 pill boxes and gill streams are other features to look out for.

  • Parking: pay and display parking at Eridge Station, with
    some free off-road parking outside the station.
  • Refreshments: The Huntsman.
Get walking!

Trails by Rail: Buxted

This 4 mile walks starts and ends at Buxted train station, taking in some of the best of the High Weald’s iconic scenery.

Enjoy a gentle walk across farmland, alongside Tickerage Stream and through historic Buxted Park with a circuit around the ancient woodland of Views Wood.

Look out for an historic churchyard, ornamental ponds and an ancient
yew thought to be 2,000 years old.

  • Parking: pay and display at Buxted Station or occasional
    spaces along nearby roads.
  • Refreshments: The White Hart near the station, Buxted Inn,
    Buxted Park Hotel (drinks on the veranda recommended)
    and village store
Get walking!

Trails by Rail: Balcombe

This 6-mile circular walk, starting and ending at Balcombe train station, takes you through wooded valleys and over gently rolling hills with spectacular views over the Ouse valley, the railway viaduct and the South Downs.

Look out for sunken lanes, ponds, a sandstone outcrop and historic buildings.

  • Time: approx 3 hours
  • Parking: pay and display parking at Balcombe Station
  • Refreshments: Balcombe Tea Rooms, the Half Moon Inn,
    village store.
Get walking!

Ticehurst walk

A 7 mile circular walk through Ticehurst and along part of the edge of Bewl Reservoir

Get walking!

Southborough Circulars

3 circular walks exploring Southborough Common - one of the oldest common spaces in the UK. Choose from 'Habitats Circular', 'Veterans Tour' or the 10-mile 'Secrets Circular'.

Get walking!

Sissinghurst: A Walk Through Time

This 10 mile route takes the walker northwards from Cranbrook through woods, past ancient houses and mills and over the rolling wealden landscape to Sissinghurst Castle.

Get walking!

Rushlake Green walk

A 4.5 mile circular walk around the countryside near to Rushlake Green

Get walking!

Rotherfield walk

A 5.5 mile circular route starting at Jarvis Brook railway station

Get walking!

Playden Walk

A 3 mile circular walk around the village of Playden

Get walking!

Peasmarsh walk

A 4 mile walk through the countryside around Peasmarsh

Get walking!

National Trust – Standen to Selsfield Common

An 8.5 mile walk starting from Standen and takes you to Selsfield Common

Get walking!

National Trust – Sprivers walk

A 1-mile circular walk through the woods around Sprivers Wood in Kent. Please note parking is limited at this site.

Get walking!

National Trust – Sissinghurst Castle walk

A 3 mile walk exploring Sissinghurst Castle's gardens and grounds

Get walking!

National Trust – Nymans Woodland Walks

Explore Nymans’ ancient oak and beech woodland, home to cascades, sandstone outcrops, a lake and a large variety of plants and wildlife. Can you find the tallest tree in Sussex, scurrying squirrels, birdlife on the lake, or fungi? Get walking!

National Trust – Nap walk

A 1 mile circular walk around a woodland owned by the National Trust

Get walking!

National Trust – Bateman’s

A selection of 3 walks through the beautiful 300-acre Bateman’s Estate

Get walking!

Horsmonden circular walk

A 5 mile circular walk starting at Horsmonden village 

Get walking!

Herstmonceux walk

A 4 mile circular walk around Herstmonceux Castle and the Royal Observatory

Get walking!

Hastings maritime walk

A 7 mile circular walk around the Hastings Country Park

Get walking!

Hadlow Down walk

A 6.5 mile circular walk from Buxted to Hadlow Down in East Sussex

Get walking!

Forest Row walk

A 3 mile circular walk along part of the Forest Way Country Park

Get walking!

Fairlight maritime walk

An 8 mile circular walk around Fairlight taking in the area's maritime history

Get walking!

Doleham walk

A 6.2 mile circular walk around Doleham

Get walking!

Discovering Britain: Burwash walk

The High Weald is something of a miraculous survival. While much of the rest of Britain has witnessed huge change in the past 700 years, this intricately folded landscape has kept its character astonishingly intact in so many ways. This route into the Dudwell Valley reveals many of the classic features of the High Weald - typical Wealden buildings, ancient woods and flower meadows. On the way, find out why this special evocative landscape has changed so little through the centuries. Get walking!

Danehill walk

A 2.75 mile circular walk around Danehill on the edge of Ashdown Forest

Get walking!

Crowhurst Walk

A 3.5 mile walk around the village of Crowhurst and through Fore Wood, an RSPB reserve

Get walking!

Cranbrook walk

A 3 mile circular walk around the historic market town of Cranbrook

Get walking!

Cowbeech walk

A 4.5 mile circular walk around the countryside surrounding Cowbeech

Get walking!

Cock Marling Walk

A 4 mile typical country walk with views of Brede level

Get walking!

Camber castle walk

A 4.5 mile circular route from Rye to Camber Castle

Get walking!

Burwash walk

A 7 mile circular walk around Burwash and Burwash Weald.

Please note this route has not been updated for some time so some information may be out of date. We always recommend taking an OS map when out walking in the High Weald AONB.

Get walking!

Buckhurst walk

A 5.5 mile circular walk starting from Wadhurst railway station

Get walking!

Broadwater Warren history trail

A 2 mile walk around Broadwater Warren highlighting the site’s rich history

Get walking!

Ashdown Forest Walk 6: Broadstone Amble

A 2.5 mile circular, waymarked walk starting at the Ashdown Forest Visitor Centre

Please note parking charges apply.

Get walking!

Broad Oak walk

This 3 mile walk is around Broad Oak and Brede villages.

Please note this route has not been updated for some time, so some information may be out of date. We always recommend taking an OS map with you when walking in the High Weald AONB.

Get walking!

Bodiam Castle walk

A 5 mile circular walk around Bodiam castle and along the river Rother

Get walking!

Blackboys walk

A 4.5 mile circular walk around Blackboys 

Get walking!

Beckley walk

A 3 mile walk through the woods around Beckley. This is a generally easy walk with stiles and some muddy paths (depending on weather).

Get walking!

Beaneys Lane, Hastings walk

Up to 1 mile linear walk on a track on the outskirts of Hastings

Battle walk

A 4.5 mile walk around the town of Battle and Battle Great wood

Get walking!

Ashdown Forest Walk: Forest Row

A 3.5 mile easy circular walk with some gentle hills and stiles

Get walking!

Ashdown Forest Walk 9: The Hindleap walk

A 1.4 mile circular walk on Ashdown Forest.

Please note car parking charges apply.

Get walking!

Ashdown Forest Walk 8: A walk amongst friends

A 1.7 miles / 2.8 km circular walk on Ashdown Forest taking in Friends Clump, Nutley Windmill, Millbrook Valley and Old Lodge.

Please note parking charges apply.

Get walking!

Ashdown Forest Walk 7: Eastern clumps

Two short circular walks, 1.4 or 2.2 miles from Kings Standing on Ashdown Forest.

Please note parking charges apply.

Get walking!

Ashdown Forest Walk 5: Old Airstrip

A 2.5 mile circular walk on Ashdown Forest, exploring the largest block of heathland on the West side of the forest

Please note parking charges apply.

Get walking!

Ashdown Forest Walk 4: Tabell Ghyll

1.75 mile circular walk on Ashdown Forest.

Please note parking charges apply.

Get walking!

Ashdown Forest Walk 3: Chelwood Vachery

A 2.75 mile walk around Chelwood Vachery on Ashdown Forest.

Please note parking charges apply.

Get walking!

Ashdown Forest Walk 2: Southern slopes and the airman’s grave

A 2-mile circular walk on Ashdown Forest, taking in a lonesome memorial to a WW2 pilot.

Please note parking charges apply.

Get walking!

Ashdown Forest Walk 13: The military on Ashdown Forest

A 3.5 mile circular walk on Ashdown Forest.

Please note parking charges apply.

Get walking!

Ashdown Forest Walk 12: Tabell Ghyll archaeology walk

A 2.5 mile circular walk on Ashdown Forest.

Please note parking charges apply.

Get walking!

Ashdown Forest Walk 11: Chelwood Gate archaeology walk

A 3 mile circular walk around Chelwood Gate.

Get walking!

Ashdown Forest Walk 10: Beyond the Pale

A 2.5 mile circular walk on Ashdown Forest starting from Goat car park.

Please be advised parking charges apply.

Get walking!

Ashdown Forest Walk 1: Pooh walks from Gills Lap

Two circular walks 0.6/2 miles around some of Pooh Bear’s favourite places.

Please be aware parking charges apply.

Get walking!

Ardingly reservoir kingfisher trail

A 1 or 3 mile walk beside Ardingly reservoir

Get walking!

Ardingly reservoir amble

A 8 mile walk between Haywards Heath and Balcombe railway stations

A walk through time – Goudhurst

A 10 mile circular walk from Goudhurst to Cranbrook and return

Get walking!

A walk through time – Benenden

A 10 mile circular walk around Benenden

Get walking!

A walk through time – Bedgebury

A 13 mile circular walk from Cranbrook through Bedgebury forest

Get walking!

Worth Way Country Park

7 mile track from Three Bridges to East Grinstead for walking and riding

William’s Wood

Woodland Trust woodland near Warninglid

Find out more about William’s Wood

Google Maps

Weir Wood Reservoir

Reservoir with bird hide, nature reserve and footpaths

Find out more about Weir Wood Reservoir

Google Maps link

Wealden walks

This Woodland Trust site boasts mature woodland, an amazing diversity of plants and wildlife, an intriguing history and stunning views over the surrounding High Weald countryside.

Find out more about Wealden Walks

Google Maps link

Vinehall Forest

Forestry Commission woodland south east of Robertsbridge

Find out more about Vinehall Forest

Google Maps link

Turner’s Field

Kent Wildlife Trust reserve on the western edge of Tenterden

Find out more about Turner’s Field

Google Maps link.

Tudeley Woods

RSPB woodland and heathland reserve near Tunbridge Wells

Find out more about Tudeley Woods

Google Maps link.

Tilgate Forest

Mixed conifer and broadleaf woodland owned by FC

St Leonard’s Forest

Walking, cycling and horseriding just outside Crawley and Horsham. Discover tales of hermits and dragons!

Find out more about St Leonards Forest

Google Maps link.

Snape and Birchetts Wood

Forestry commission woodland near Wadhurst. A beautiful mosaic mix of pines (old and new), coppiced chestnuts, birch, oak and other native species all criss-crossed with a network of wide sandy paths edged with heather.

Find out more about Snape Wood

Google Maps link

Sheffield Forest

A quiet woodland site owned by Forestry Commission, a haven for wildlife

Find out more about Sheffield Forest

Google Maps link.

Selwyns Wood

Sussex Wildlife Trust woodland nature reserve near Heathfield. Parking available

Find out more about Selwyns Wood Nature Reserve

Google Maps link

Selsfield Common

National Trust land with woodland and common land

Find out more about Selsfield Common

Google Maps link.

Rye Harbour Nature Reserve

An internationally important bird nature reserve managed by Sussex Wildlife Trust

Find out more about Rye Harbour Nature Reserve.

Google Maps link.

Rushlye Wood

Small local amenity woodland on the edge of Bells Yew Green

Find out more about Rushlye Wood.

Google Maps link.

Rotherfield Reserve

Powdermill Trust for nature conservation run nature reserve

Find out more about Rotherfield Reserve

Google Maps link

Powdermill Wood

A woodland reserve with historic links to charcoal and gunpowder production

Find out more about Powdermill Wood.

Google Maps link.

Parsonage Wood

Kent Wildlife Trust woodland nestling in an area of orchard and pasture

Find out more about Parsonage Wood.

Google Maps link.

Old Lodge Warren

A Woodland Trust site near Rotherfield

Find out more about Old Lodge Warren

Google Maps link

Old Lodge Nature Reserve

Sussex Wildlife Trust reserve (parking charges apply)

Find out more about Old Lodge Nature Reserve

Google Maps Link

 

Newick Wood

Permitted public access to this woodland near Heathfield

Find out more about Newick Wood

Google Maps link

Marshley Harbour & Forest Woods

Woodland close to Tunbridge Wells with nature trail.

Find out more about Marshley Harbour & Forest Woods

Google Maps link

Little Foxes Copse

Woodland Trust site near Mayfield

Find out more about Little Foxes Copse

Google Maps link

Leechpool and Owlbeech Woods

Mixed woodland and heathland habitat with walking routes

Find out more about Leechpool and Owlbeech woods

Google Maps link

 

Kiln Wood

Woodland Trust ancient woodland near Blackboys

Find out more about Kiln Wood

Google Maps link

Hastings Country Park

267 ha of ancient woodland, heathland and grassland with 3 miles of cliffs and coastline.

Find out more about Hastings Country Park

Google Maps link

Guestling Wood

Woodland Trust-owned woodland in the Brede Valley

Find out more about Guestling Wood

Google Maps link. 

Friezland Wood

A SSSI woodland site with sandrock outcrops.

Find out more about Friezland Wood

Google Maps link

Forest Way Country Park

Ten mile track used for walking, cycling and horseriding

Find out more about Forest Way Country Park

Google Maps link

Fore Wood

An RSPB owned and managed woodland with gill streams and coppice

Find out more about Fore Wood

Google Maps link

Flatropers Wood

Sussex Wildlife Trust reserve – ancient semi natural woodland with a variety of habitats

Find out more about Flatropers Wood

Google Maps link

Eridge Rocks

Sussex Wildlife Trust reserve featuring a majestic sandstone rock outcrop among mixed woodland

Find out more about Eridge Rocks.

Google Maps link. 

Crane Valley

Kent High Weald Partnership managed nature reserve south of Cranbrook

Find out more about Crane Valley.

Google Maps link

 

Collingwood Nature Reserve

3 ha woodland sanctuary near Hawkhurst in Kent

Find out more about Collingwood

Google Maps link

Cinderhill Woods

A woodland with heath and grassland managed by Kent High Weald Partnership

Find out more about Cinderhill Wood

Google Maps link

Church Covert

Woodland Trust wood in Slaugham

Find out more about Church Covert.

Google Maps link.

 

Buchan Country Park

Walking, wildlife watching around 170 acres of woodland, heath and meadow

Find out more about Buchan Country Park

Google Maps link.

Broadwater Warren

RSPB nature reserve with heathland habitat

Find out more about Broadwater Warren. 

Google Maps link. 

Brickfield Meadow

Sussex Wildlife Trust managed meadow near Fairwarp

Find out more about Brickfield Meadow

Google Maps link

Brenchley Wood

Kent Wildlife Trust woodland with archaeological trail

Find out more about Brenchley Wood

Google Maps link.

Brede High Woods

Woodland Trust owned and managed woodland

Find out more about Brede High Woods

Google Maps link

Bixley Wood

A mostly coniferous plantation, owned and managed by the Forestry Commission.

Find out more about Bixley Wood. 

Google Maps link

Birchden Wood

42ha of FC owned woodland with all weather path

For more information about Birchden Wood

Google Maps link

Big Millhole Wood

Privately owned working woodland with access near Rotherfield

More information on Big Millhole Wood

Google Maps link

Bewl Water Woods

Woodland on the north west shore of Bewl Reservoir

Find out more about Bewl Water woods

Google Maps link. 

Bedgebury Forest

National arboretum with cycling, horse riding and walking through forest area

Find out more about Bedgebury Forest. 

Google Maps link. 

Beckley Woods

Mixed woodland plantation owned and managed by the Forestry Commission

Woodland trust Beckley Wood

Google Maps Link 

Battle Great Woods

A predominately coniferous woodland with open access

Woodland Trust – Battle Great Woods

Google Maps link. 

 

Barnett’s Wood

12 ha Local Nature Reserve with trails, pond and picnic area

For more information on this walk. 

Downloadable pdf – Barnett’s Wood Nature Trail

Google Maps link. 

Parent toddler walk – Tunbridge Wells common

A circular 0.86 mile walk suitable for buggies

Parent toddler walk – Rusthall Common

A short linear walk of 0.3 miles (0.5km) through woodland with stunning views of the High Weald. Unrestricted parking and restaurant/café nearby. Suitable for toddlers and adults.

Download walk guide

Parent toddler walk – Pepenbury

A 1 mile circular walk suitable for toddlers and all terrain buggies

Parent toddler walk – Hargate Forest

A short 1 mile linear walk suitable for toddlers

Parent toddler walk – Eridge rocks

A 0.6 mile circular walk suitable for adventurous toddlers

Parent toddler walk – Dunorlan Park

A 1.6 mile circular walk around Dunorlan Park suitable for buggies

Parent toddler walk – Broadwater Warren

A 1.25 mile linear walk in Broadwater Warren suitable for buggies

Parent toddler walk – Birchden Wood

A 1.5 mile circular walk suitable for buggies round Birchden Wood

All Saints’ and St Richard’s Welly Walk

Maidenbower, Crawley Welly Walk

Ticehurst & Flimwell School welly walk

Welly walk

 

Add a link here

Stonegate School welly walk

Welly walk

Staplecross School welly walk

Welly walk

Colliers Green School welly walk

Welly walk

Buxted School welly walk

Welly walk

Burwash School welly walk

Welly walk

Brenchley and Matfield School welly walk

Welly walk

Bidborough Welly Walk

Punnetts Town Welly Walk

Welly Walk

Darwell Wood

Public access woodland with many tracks and reservoir

Ashdown Forest

Area of open heathland and woodland within 2500ha of open access land

Ash & Luckhurst Woods

Two small Woodland Trust woodlands

Ardingly Reservoir

A reservoir with marked trail and bird watching hides

RSPCA Mallydams Wood

RSPB 38 bed residential and education centre as well as a woodland nature reserve.  

Rolvenden farmers market

Farmers market

Penshurst farmers market

Farmers market

Lamberhurst farmers market

Farmers market

Horsmonden farmers market

Farmers market

Horsham farmers market

Farmers market

East Grinstead farmers market

Farmers market

Rye farmers market

Farmers market

Heathfield farmers market

Farmers market

Cranbrook farmers market

Farmers market

Crowborough farmers market

Farmers market

Brede farmers market

Farmers market

Battle farmers market

Farmers market

Bewl Water Reservoir

A 12.5 mile trail for walkers, cyclists and horse riders around the shores of Bewl Water

Penshurst Off Road Club (PORC)

PORC claims to be the best all round, off-road cycling park in the South East

Rye Rides – cycle routes for everyone

Three linked circular rides, leaving from Rye or Winchelsea that total 29 miles

The Worth Way

Crawley, Three Bridges to East Grinstead, 7 mile trail.

The Forest Way

A 9.5 mile trail from Groombridge to Forest Row

The Cuckoo Trail

14 mile trail on smooth track

1066 Circular Ride

43 mile cycle, Hastings to Robertsbridge to Brede

Brede Giants

Brede Water heritage site with two of its original triple expansion steam engines housed in Grade II listed buildings.

The Mill Toy & Pedal Car Museum

Privately owned collection of collectables and nostalgic pedal – powered toys.

Smallhythe Place

Actress, Ellen Terry's early 16th-century house and cottage

Great Dixter House & Gardens

Historic house surrounded by a plant lover's garden

Holmbush Farm World

Traditional working farm estate

Huxley’s Birds of Prey Centre & Gardens

Bird of Prey displays, experience days and gardens

Deers Leap Park

A 240 acre site with both family friendly and single track mountain bike facilities

Tilgate Park

A park with lakes, lawns and gardens, miles of woodland and bridleways for long leisurely walks

National Cat Centre

Visit the largest cat re-homing centre in the UK

Kent & East Sussex Railway

10.5 miles of light railway running from Tenterden to Bodiam

Heaven Farm

200 years of farming history set in the heart of the Sussex Weald

Spring Farm Alpaca walking

Alpaca walking in the High Weald countryside

Visit website

Carr Taylor Vineyard

Vineyard tours

Visit website

Wildwood Bushcraft

Bushcraft courses

Visit website

Biddenden Vineyards

Vineyard tours

Visit website

Bowles Outdoor Centre

Outdoor learning centre

Visit website

East Sussex Falconry

Falconry experience days

Visit website

Nuts 4 Climbing

Rock climbing courses near Tunbridge Wells, Kent

Visit website

Bodiam Boating Station

Ferry rides to Bodiam Castle, rowing boat and kayak hire

Visit website

Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard

Tours around a biodynamic vineyard

Visit website
© Crown Copyright. All rights reserved. East Sussex County Council 100019601 2022 | © East Sussex County Council 2022

Self-guided circular walks

We have curated a selection of self-guided circular routes ranging from 1 – 9+ miles, including accessible routes. Many of these walks have developed by the area’s local authorities and have been recently updated.

We have also listed walks within the AONB developed by local community groups, attractions, wildlife organisations and charities. However, as these routes have been developed without local authority involvement, there is no guarantee of standards – they should however meet the basic standards for rights of way.

We always recommend you carry an OS map with you when walking in the countryside.

 

High Weald Walking Festival 2024

Join us from Saturday 7 – Sunday 15 September and discover the High Weald in all its autumnal glory!

Our annual walking festival is a great way to explore and learn about this special landscape, with something for every age and ability.

​The programme for this year’s festival is now live; choose from an exciting programme of more than 40 FREE guided walks and talks, with a selection of downloadable self-guided routes for those who prefer to go at their own pace.

The festival is a collaboration between the High Weald National Landscape Partnership and several local branches of the Ramblers.

High Weald Landscape Trail

Looking for a challenge?

Take on our iconic 145km (90 mile) route that meanders through the AONB from east to west, linking ridge-top villages and historic gardens for which the area is famous.

QUICK LOOK:

  • Length: 145 kilometres (95 miles)
  • Start point: Railway Station, Horsham
  • Finish point: Strand Quay, Rye
  • Days to complete Trail: 7 days on average
  • Highest point: West Hoathly, 183 m (600 ft)
  • Explorer maps: 134, 135, 136, 125

Walking in the Weald

The High Weald is a working landscape and many rights of way pass through farmland – you may come across chickens, cattle, sheep, horses – or even alpacas! Please follow the countryside code and be respectful of our hardworking farmers.

Hooray for clay!

The clay paths of the High Weald can be notoriously muddy at all times of year so waterproof boots are recommended unless you’re exploring a country park.

What to wear

Be prepared for changeable weather by carrying waterproofs in a rucksack. Trousers can be useful in providing protection against any high or prickly vegetation or rain-drenched or dewy crops. They can also protect against ticks – find out how to be tick aware here.

Find your way

It’s always best to take an OS map to find your way in the High Weald. Footpaths can become overgrown quickly – or diverted – so we can’t guarantee any of the walks on our website are 100% up to date.

As the High Weald is a large area it is covered by several maps:

Explorer Series, scale 1:25,000, 2 1/2 inches to 1 mile (4cm to 1km )
123 South Downs Way
124 Hastings and Bexhill
125 Romney Marsh
134 Crawley and Horsham
135 Ashdown Forest
136 The Weald
147 Sevenoaks and Tonbridge

Keep yourself and others safe

We ask everyone to act responsibly and enjoy the benefits that nature offers, while giving it the respect it deserves.

You can also support farmers by sticking to the marked footpaths, being careful not to trample on crops, leaving gates as you find them and ensuring we all practice the countryside code values of ‘Respect – Protect – Enjoy’.

Waymarking

Where rights of way leave the road, metal or wooden finger posts, or a stone plinth indicate the way. At other points, such as field boundaries or path junctions, footpaths are marked with short posts or taller finger posts.

In addition to the posts, public rights of way in Kent and East Sussex are usually marked with small coloured arrows to show the status of the path and direction.

In West Sussex the classification of the rights of way is carved in words in the finger post. If the status of a path changes along its length, so does the colour of the arrows or the wording on the finger post. Where a right of way is a promoted path, the arrows are used in conjunction with the route’s own symbol.

A group of people walking past a castle