Who owns Ashdown Forest?


Who owns Ashdown Forest? Ashdown Forest is owned by the Ashdown Forest Trust and managed by the Conservators of Ashdown Forest.


How is the Ashdown Forest funded?

Two independent charities raise funds to help the Conservators' work – The Ashdown Forest Foundation and the Friends of Ashdown Forest. The Ashdown Forest Foundation (TAFF) is an independent charity and is not involved in the day-to-day management of the Forest.


Is the Ashdown Forest private land?

In 1693, more than half the forest was taken into private hands, with the remainder set aside as common land. The latter today covers 9.5 square miles (25 km2; 6,100 acres; 2,500 ha) and is the largest area with open public access in South East England.


How much are the charges at Ashdown Forest?

The car parks will be managed by Horizon Parking and visitors will be charged £2 for one hour, £2.50 for up to two hours, £4 for up to four hours and £5 to park all day. An annual pass is also available for £80 and a 6 month 'Winter pass' is £50 (both these passes cover 2 vehicles from the same household).


Why is Ashdown Forest called a forest?

The word 'forest' does not actually imply covered with trees but derives from the name for a royal hunting area with special laws to protect deer. Ashdown Forest became part of the Duchy of Lancaster when Edward III granted the hunting park to his son, John of Gaunt in 1372.


Who lives in Ashdown Forest?

Living in the Forest There are more than 700 'commoners' – people who have ancient rights, such as grazing animals or wood cutting, attached to their land or property. In addition, there are many more residents with access tracks that cross the Forest to reach their homes, and lots of small businesses.


Can you walk around Ashdown Forest?

There are ten walks of 2-3 miles to choose from and, for the more adventurous hikers, there is a 14 mile circular route which visits the iconic Scots Pine clumps across the Forest. The walks leaflets and Forest map are available from the Forest Centre or can be downloaded HERE.


Can I take my dog to Ashdown Forest?

Well behaved dogs ARE welcome on the Forest. We ask however, that certain guidelines are followed. A Board of Conservators manages Ashdown Forest as a quiet, natural place for you to enjoy and also as a refuge for wildlife.


How do I pay for car parking on Ashdown Forest?

  1. To buy an Ashdown Forest parking pass:
  2. Step 1 – Click on the button below.
  3. Step 2 – Register an account.
  4. Step 3 – Login using the details emailed to you.
  5. Step 4 – Go to “My Account” to add additional vehicles and your payment card. ...
  6. Step 5 – Click on “Apply for Permit” and choose the pass you need.


Can you ride in Ashdown Forest?

Having an Ashdown Forest Riding Permit gives you access to over 75 miles of varied and beautiful riding. You can easily ride all day. Riding is by permit only, and every horse must display a valid badge.


Do you have to pay to park on Ashdown Forest?

Ashdown Forest has introduced paid parking on all our car parks. For some years we have experienced increasing numbers of visitors and decreasing levels of funding.


Is Ashdown Forest the 100 acre wood?

Ashdown Forest is the legendary Hundred Acre Wood and draws visitors from across the world, inspired to follow in Pooh's footsteps.


How do you become a commoner in the new forest?

To become a commoner you essentially have to buy some land that comes with the right to common on the new forest. Commoners are those who occupy land or property to which privileges known as 'rights of common' are attached, which includes the right to graze stock on the Open Forest.


Is Ashdown Forest common land?

In 1693, more than half the forest was taken into private hands, with the remainder set aside as common land. The latter today covers 9.5 square miles (25 km2; 6,100 acres; 2,500 ha) and is the largest area with open public access in South East England.