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Ashdown Forest is a roughly triangular area of land with Forest Row at its apex. It is all that now remains of the once huge Wealden Forest of Anderida, which in Roman times stretched for 120 miles from Canterbury to Chichester. Sadly, much of the Forest was felled to make way for agriculture and to fuel the furnaces of the once thriving Sussex iron industry that reached its peak in the 17th century. Today the forest comprises 10 square miles of open heath and woodland and provides a unique habitat for wild animals, birds and plants. At all times of the year it is a place of stark beauty with incredible views in all directions.

The Forest is administered by a Board of Conservators that is responsible for the provision of funds for its upkeep. The public has a legal right of access to all open land administered by the Conservators who have done much to provide unobtrusive car parks and picnic areas on the edge of the Forest. No wheeled traffic is allowed on open Forest land and horse riding is by permit only, obtained from the Ashdown Forest Centre.

The Ashdown Forest Information and Exhibition Centre at Wych Cross is well worth a visit by those wishing to learn more about the Forest or to obtain details of the many walks and footpaths in the area.

For younger visitors to the area a major attraction is the haunt of Pooh Bear and his friends.

A. A. Milne, the author of the Pooh stories, lived in the nearby village of Hartfield and many of the stories were set in Ashdown Forest. "Pooh sticks" can still be played from the site of the original bridge and Pooh's Enchanted Place can be visited. Further details can be obtained from the Tourist Information Centre - Sussex Country Information Centre - North: 01825 713862 ticnorth@clara.co.uk

Whilst every care has been taken in compiling this publication and the statements contained herein are believed to be correct, the publishers and promoters cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies. Reproduction of any part of this publication in any format, without permission, is strictly forbidden. Photographs by Susie Kemp.