Ashenground & Bolnore Woods Local Nature Reserve

The woods south of Hassocks are proper woodland walking territory - ancient trees, proper footpaths, and the kind of quiet that makes you remember why you came to Sussex in the first place. Ashenground and Bolnore Woods Local Nature Reserve spreads across decent acreage with mixed woodland that's actually managed for wildlife rather than left to go wild. You'll find yourself walking through beech and oak, past the occasional pond, spotting birds if you're lucky and keeping an eye out for the butterflies that love these spots in summer.

This is one for people who actually want to walk rather than just tick a box. There's no visitor centre, no facilities to speak of, and you need to know roughly where you're going - it rewards those with a map and proper shoes. Families will manage fine on the main paths, though you'll want kids old enough to walk a couple of miles without complaining. Naturalists and serious birdwatchers will spend hours here. In autumn the colours are decent, but spring brings more wildlife activity.

It's free access and takes as long as you fancy - most people spend an hour to ninety minutes. The nearest campsite is Wild Boar Wood just 3.9 miles away, making this an easy morning outing if you're based in the area. Worth combining with a walk to Ditchling Beacon or the South Downs if you want a full day out.