18TH SEPTEMBER 2024

Living near Ashdown Forest

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Looking for a home in the heart of South East England? Let us show you Ashdown Forest, nestled in between Haywards Heath and Royal Tunbridge Wells, this is the perfect area to settle into your new home. With our upcoming homes in Crowborough and Maresfield, let's take a look at this outstanding location.

The history of Ashdown Forest

Covering over 10 square miles, Ashdown Forest is known for being the magical landscape that inspired the creation of Winnie the Pooh. A.A Milne the creator of this beloved children's tale, lived on the edge of the forest, and has inspired the hundred-acre woods to become a landmark in the South East. Home to rare and threatened species, this adds to the deep history of the forest, making it a stunning natural reserve.

Lifestyle and community

The community around Ashdown Forest allows you to enjoy a wide range of amenities, from the independent stores, nearby towns, shopping centres, pubs and restaurants, parks and woodland trails, it makes it a perfect place to live.

Of course, the area is known for its stunning forest, but let's discuss its rich community events, specifically the Elderflower Fields family festival held for 2 days every year, this is one for the diary. Ashdown is known for its vibrant cultural atmosphere, and welcoming community, blending the charm of rural living with the convenience of nearby amenities.

Outdoor spaces and nature

If you love the outdoors, Ashdown Forest is for you. With its incredible trails and stunning views, it makes it hard to miss. Ashdown’s Five Hundred Acre Wood is ideal for walks, with trails winding through enchanting woodland scenes, whether you’re taking a walk, cycling or even horse riding. It has it all.

Restaurants and pubs

Ashdown has an active and highly rated dining scene. With a large variety of pubs and restaurants for all occasions.

The Hatch Inn: With its stunning views and inclusive menu, this provides a great opportunity for a cosy and quaint pub in the heart of Ashdown.

Forest Brasserie: When it comes to birthday celebrations, or maybe date night, this stunning upscale restaurant boasts beautiful interiors and a deluxe menu. It’s one to visit!

The Swan at Forest Row: From breakfast to dinner, they have menus for everything. Whether you’re looking for a stack of American pancakes or a pan-fried gnocchi, this restaurant has it all.

Some other gems are The Old Dunnings Mill, The Bear Inn and Thai Time @ Forest Row. Lots of new food places to add to your list!

Wineries and breweries

With its award-winning Hindleap sparkling wines and Ashdown still wines, Bluebell Vineyard Estate is the perfect place to tour and taste a huge range of products. Oh and don’t forget, they offer ‘Tour and Tasting’ sessions too.

If wine isn’t your passion, there could be another option for you. Missing Link Brewing is the ideal visit for any beer connoisseurs, whether you explore the making and packaging process of their beers, or take a visit to their taproom, you will be impressed. With 10 beers and gins on tap, there's an option for everyone.

Theatre and cinema

Nearby Tulleys Farm drive in cinema, is perfect for a relaxed night to see one of their range of films from the comfort of your car. It’s an experience to remember.

Or if you are looking for a walk in experience, choose from the large number of cinemas; Scott cinemas, Cineworld Crawley, Picture house cinema and restaurant, Orion cinema and Odeon Tunbridge Wells.

Sports clubs and leisure centres

Take a trip to East Grinstead Sports Club, located on Saint Hill Road, just 6 miles from Ashdown Forest. PureGym is a short distance away in the town centre, making it easily accessible, while other fitness options like Nuffield Health are also available in the area. Or a little closer to home Forest Row gym is just 8 minutes away, perfect for your weekly gym sessions.

Spas

Ashdown Park Hotel and Country Club has everything you could need, with treatments specifically tailored to you. From facials, aromatherapy massages and all body treatments, this place is a gem you should not miss out on. The facilities include; indoor heated swimming pool, 6 beauty rooms, 18 Hole, Par 3 golf course, driving range, two all-weather tennis courts and a fully equipped gym.

Nearby towns

15 minutes east of Ashdown lies Crowborough, whether it’s visiting the Beacon Golf Club or the manor gardens, it’s the place to visit.

It’s also 15 minutes to East Grinstead where you can visit the Bluebell Railway, or take a walk along the old high street, taking you back through 800 years of Sussex heritage.

Only 25 minutes away is Royal Tunbridge Wells known for its world-famous gardens, outstanding castles and country manors. For a slightly longer trip, you can visit the enchanting Scotney Castle or the beautiful Sissinghurst Castle Garden, both of which are sure to impress.

Maresfield

Maresfield is a picturesque village located just 12 minutes away from Ashdown Forest, known for its historic buildings, charming countryside, and close-knit community. The town has an array of local shops and the beautiful St Bartholomew's church in the centre. Maresfield is known for its village fêtes and Christmas markets, and has roots dating back to the Anglo-Saxon period. It also has military significance, with Maresfield Camp established during World War I as a training ground for troops.

Healthcare and services

In Ashdown Forest you have access to comprehensive healthcare, most notably Ashdown Forest Health Centre and Woodhill surgery. From routine checkups to specialised referrals, don’t worry they have you covered.

When in need of urgent medical care the Princess Royal Hospital is just a 20-minute drive. away from Ashdown. This hospital provides you with the facilities you need including an emergency department, outpatient services and specialised surgical units.

Ashdown includes a variety of health clinics and services in the local area, including dental practices, physiotherapy clinics and mental health services.

Transport links

Whether you prefer public transport or driving, Ashdown Forest is in an ideal location, making it convenient for commuting or exploring. Several bus services operate in and around Ashdown Forest, connecting residents to nearby towns such as East Grinstead, Crowborough, Forest Row, and Tunbridge Wells.

For train services, residents can access several nearby stations: East Grinstead Station just a 15-minute drive from Ashdown Forest, it offers direct trains to London Victoria and London Bridge, making it ideal for commuting into London. There are direct trains from East Grinstead and Haywards Heath to Gatwick Airport, making international travel convenient and stress-free.

Another option is Crowborough Station: Approximately 10 minutes from the forest, this station provides services on the Uckfield Line, with connections to London Bridge. Haywards Heath Station is a bit further away but still accessible, offering frequent trains to London, Brighton, and the South Coast.

Living near Ashdown Forest offers the best of both worlds: a serene environment away from the hustle and bustle of urban life, while still being conveniently located near major transportation links.

Education and schools

Living near Ashdown Forest offers residents a range of education opportunities for your family. Schools are available in East Grinstead and Crowborough under 15 minutes away from Ashdown. Greenfields Independent Day & Boarding School, Forest Row C of E Primary School are perfect for your children to get a well-rounded education. There are education options available for all ages, the University of Sussex is an excellent option for university, with the beautiful city of Brighton on your doorstep.

Child-friendly activities

Ashdown Forest is perfect for children with events such as Animal Adventure, and other activities, such as Llama Park and Pooh Corner. It is a great destination for birthday parties.

Some other activities include Knockhatch Adventure Park, The Doves Play Barn Play Town Group and the deer park on Chuck Hatch Lane. All are fun options for your children or grandchildren to enjoy.

Other activities

If you’re looking for something fun to do, take a walk around Hever Castle, or Kingscote Estate and Vineyard. These are ideal day trips for families and couples. On the other hand take a trip to Tulleys Escape Rooms & Games, for a fun family day out or celebration.

Tunbridge Wells Sand, is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as sandcastle building and beach volleyball, boasting a fun day out for all to enjoy.

Brookworth homes

At Brookworth we are delighted to announce our new homes in Maresfield coming soon. If you’d like to come along to one of our showrooms, our Gallica development in Sissinghurst boasts premium and luxurious 3 & 4-bedroom homes for you to come and view. If you are looking at our housing developments, Warren Grove could be perfect for you, located in the heart of Crowborough, these 3-4 bedroom detached private properties are launching imminently and are the epitome of luxury.