In the heart of an area rich in nature – the estate itself is teeming with life. Deer hide in the dappled light amongst the Oak trees, and dart across the meadows. In April our ancient wood is carpeted with bluebells. Listen out for woodpeckers, and keep your eyes on the skies for buzzards and red kites. The river Medway runs through our land bringing dragonflies, butterflies, kingfishers, and migratory birds.

As a designated area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB), the High Weald’s hedgerows, hammer ponds and heaths create a patchwork of habitats for wildlife to thrive. Follow the ancient river Medway in search of kingfishers, wagtails, herons and otters. Discover dense woods with ancient roots, sacred springs and hidden wells – like stepping into a fable.

The heathland and woodland of Ashdown forest supports a whole community of small mammals including deer, foxes, badgers and even a herd of wild ponies. The forest is a haven for birdwatchers listening for the eerie mechanical churring of the Nightjar, or the eccentric call of the Yellowhammer requesting ‘a little bit of bread and no cheese’. Birds of prey are there for the keen eyed sky watcher – while buzzards are more common, you may get a sighting of a barn owl hunting in the heather, or a peregrine falcon as they pass through in winter.

See our Local Walks page for suggested walks in the area.