Brickhurst Wood

The woodland path into Brickhurst opens up suddenly - one minute you're on the road near Robertsbridge, the next you're surrounded by tall conifers and the sound of birdsong. It's a proper forest walk rather than a manicured nature reserve, which is exactly what makes it worth the trip.

The trees here are dense enough that even on a bright day there's a green twilight feel underneath the canopy. You'll find yourself on well-trodden trails that wind through the wood, with patches of bracken and the occasional clearing where light floods through. It's the kind of place where you genuinely might spot a deer if you're quiet and lucky.

Walkers will get the most from Brickhurst - this isn't a destination for a quick half-hour stroll but rather somewhere to lose a couple of hours properly exploring. Families with young children should manage the main paths fine, though buggies would struggle. The woodland has that authentic, slightly wild quality that makes it more interesting than the manicured country park experience.

Access appears to be free and unrestricted, which is refreshing. There's no visitor centre or facilities to speak of, so come prepared. If you're staying at Wheatfields Luxury Glamping just down the road, Brickhurst makes an excellent morning walk to work up an appetite for whatever they're serving for lunch. Go when it's not raining - the paths get properly boggy otherwise.