Step off Brighton’s lively streets and into the calm woods that inspired Winnie the Pooh. This day trip with Brighton & Beyond brings you to Ashdown Forest, where you’ll visit iconic Pooh sites and hear the stories behind A.A. Milne’s beloved characters.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with basic fitness; the guided walks are gentle with plenty of stops.
Wildlife
History
Ashdown Forest has been common land since medieval times and played a role in regulating timber and grazing rights, enriching its cultural landscape.
Conservation
Active heathland management helps preserve rare habitats and species, making visitor respect for the trails crucial to long-term sustainability.
Brighton & Beyond
Step off Brighton’s lively streets and into the calm woods that inspired Winnie the Pooh. This day trip with Brighton & Beyond brings you to Ashdown Forest, where you’ll visit iconic Pooh sites and hear the stories behind A.A. Milne’s beloved characters.
Brighton & Beyond is a guided-tour operator based in Brighton and Hove, England, specializing in day trips across Sussex and the South Downs. The company runs a range of departures from both London and Brighton that showcase iconic coastal and countryside attractions, including the Seven Sisters cliffs, Devil's Dyke, Middle Farm, and the Cuckmere River. Several tours are small-group experiences; one South Downs itinerary from Brighton is described as an intimate small-group tour limited to ten participants. Brighton & Beyond also operates guided visits to Ashdown Forest — the inspiration for A.A. Milne’s Hundred Acre Wood — with routes that include landmarks such as Pooh Bridge and Galleons Lap and typically feature a farm-to-table lunch on specific departures.
Day trips vary in length and format: examples include approximately 6.5-hour tours from Brighton, nine-hour departures from London, and specialized themed outings like the Winnie the Pooh experiences. Many itineraries combine nature, history, and local cuisine with guided commentary and scheduled stops in Sussex villages such as Rottingdean and Alfriston. Tours depart from recognizable meeting points including London Bridge Station and central Brighton locations. Information about each trip is available by name and summary, enabling travellers to choose between coastal cliff walks, village visits, and literary-themed forest walks. Brighton & Beyond presents experiences suitable for families, walkers, and visitors seeking accessible excursions from London or Brighton, emphasizing curated routes and local insight.
Bookings are organized with clear itineraries, meeting points, and timing information to help travellers plan. Suitable for small groups.
Tours Offered
7
Day trips from London & Brighton
Small Groups
Selected
Small-group options available
Trip Lengths
6.5–9 hrs
Typical day trip durations
Key Sights
Seven Sisters + Ashdown
Coastal cliffs and forest
Choose from coastal cliff walks, village tours, and Winnie the Pooh excursions — check availability and meeting points to reserve.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes
Paths through Ashdown Forest include uneven terrain and some soft heathland, so proper footwear is key for an enjoyable walk.
Bring water and snacks
While there’s a lunch break in Hartfield, it’s wise to carry water and light snacks during the forest walk to stay energized.
Carry weather-appropriate gear
Ashdown Forest is exposed in places; bring rain protection or sun protection depending on the season.
Keep to designated trails
Respect local conservation efforts by staying on marked paths to protect the fragile heathland ecosystem.
Comfortable hiking shoes
Protects feet and provides traction on uneven forest trails.
Weatherproof jacket
Keeps you dry against sudden rain and wind common in Sussex.
spring|fall|winter
Sunhat and sunscreen
Critical for protecting skin during exposed summer walks.
summer
Water bottle
Staying hydrated is important, especially during longer walks.