Great Otehall Wood

The woodland floor here is thick with leaf litter and moss, the kind that deadens your footsteps and makes you feel properly removed from the world. Great Otehall Wood near Hassocks is a genuine old-growth forest where you can actually lose yourself for a couple of hours without seeing another soul.

It's managed woodland rather than wilderness - the Forestry Commission keeps things tidy - but there's real character in the mature trees and the network of paths that wind through without being over-groomed. You'll spot beech, oak, and sweet chestnut throughout. The walk itself is straightforward enough for families with school-age kids, though younger ones might struggle with the uneven ground after rain.

History enthusiasts will find this interesting chiefly for what it represents: Sussex's dwindling ancient woodland. It's not packed with visible ruins or plaques, but the forest itself is the story. Walkers get the most out of it - there's no visitor centre or facilities, just trees and quiet. Allow two to three hours if you're exploring properly.

If you're camping at Wild Boar Wood just up the road, this makes a natural morning outing before heading elsewhere. It's free to access, though you'll want decent boots and a map. The South Downs aren't far if you want bigger views later, but this wood works best if you're after something slower and less showy.