Nestled in the heart of the Ashdown Forest, escape to Ashdown Park Hotel this summer and enjoy an array of local events and activities. Whether you’re looking to be at one with nature, have family-friendly fun, or simply find somewhere new to explore, we have compiled the perfect list of things to do in Sussex this summer.
Ashdown Forest Centre – Wild Wednesdays
0.3 miles from Ashdown Park | Wych Cross
Every Wednesday during the school holidays, the Conservators of Ashdown Forest host ‘Wild Wednesdays’, giving families the opportunity to learn more about the countryside that surrounds us. Sessions involve outdoor exploring, games, a walk, and a making activity, allowing children to get stuck in nature with the guidance of wildlife experts.
Wild Wednesday Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite
Good Vibrations Society Festival – 2nd to 4th August
2.8 miles from Ashdown Park | Nutley
A three-day festival, Good Vibrations Society, is hosted just along the forest on the Pippingford Park Estate. The festival caters to all ages and promotes wellness, making the surroundings of the Ashdown Forest the perfect location. Alongside the musical entertainment, there are regular walks, talks on conservation, and an array of food and drink stalls for festivalgoers to enjoy.
Good Vibrations Society Festival - Good Vibrations Society Festival
Winnie the Pooh
No further than 4 miles from Ashdown Park | Ashdown Forest & Hartfield
You’ve read the stories; now discover the ‘100 aker wood’, home of Winnie the Pooh, yourself. The Pooh Treks offer a guided tour of the key spots around the Ashdown Forest that you may recognise from the adventures of Christopher Robin and his friends. For visits a little shorter, pop down to Hartfield and explore Pooh Corner Café, home to the Pooh-themed sweet treats and their very own ‘Pooh-seum’!
Pooh Trek tours of Ashdown Forest home of Winnie-the-Pooh
Pooh Corner Hartfield Homepage - Pooh Corner Hartfield
The Bluebell Railway
7 miles from Ashdown Park | Uckfield
The Bluebell Railway is a preserved railway, providing 11 miles of Sussex scenery. The steam train and its carriages make four stops, including their start at Sheffield Park and end in East Grinstead, allowing you to hop on and off. During your visit, learn about the history of the industrial age through interactive exhibitions, stop for picnics in the play areas, and enjoy getting up close to a working locomotive.
About Bluebell Railway - Bluebell Railway in Sussex (bluebell-railway.com)
Nymans
14 miles from Ashdown Park | Haywards Heath
Explore National Trust location, Nymans, a garden lover's home in all seasons (but, in our opinion, best enjoyed in the summer!) With an extensive yet intimate garden, set around a romantic house and ruins, the historical estate is full of hidden spots to discover. Don't miss their seasonal events, with an outdoor theatre and The Tiger Who Came to Tea trail on the calendar for the upcoming months.