Curteis Wood

Walking into Curteis Wood feels like stepping into a different Sussex entirely. The trees here are tall, densely packed, and old enough that you forget there's a world outside the canopy. It's proper woodland - not a theme park version, not a manicured nature reserve, just acres of forest where you can actually get lost if you're not paying attention.

The main appeal is straightforward: woodland walking. Paths wind through beech and oak, and in autumn the floor is thick with leaves that muffle your footsteps. There are clearings if you need a breather, and the whole thing has that quiet, slightly damp smell that makes you understand why people bother with forests at all. You're near Tenterden, which helps with logistics, and it's the kind of place that works brilliantly alongside a glamping stay at Wheatfields - a proper walk to work off whatever you've eaten the night before.

Who gets most from it? Walkers, mainly. Families with older kids who can manage a couple of hours without complaining. Not ideal for buggies or very small children. There's no visitor centre, no facilities that we could find, so come prepared.

Allow two to three hours depending on how thoroughly you want to explore. Go in autumn when the light's golden and the place feels properly atmospheric, or spring when everything's green and loud with birds. It's free to access, no charges, no admission fees - just turn up and walk.