Little Shaw

A proper woodland walk rather than a destination in itself, Little Shaw sits just outside Hailsham in Sussex and offers a straightforward forest experience without any fuss. You're looking at managed woodland with decent footpaths - the kind of place where you can actually navigate without getting hopelessly lost, which is more than can be said for some of the Sussex forests. There's no visitor centre, no gift shop, no admission fee to speak of. Just trees, paths, and the occasional bit of birdsong if you time it right.

Walkers will get genuine value here, particularly those who want a proper leg-stretch without committing to a full day in the countryside. An hour or so does it justice, though you could easily linger if the mood takes. Families with young kids might find it a touch dull after the first half-hour - there's limited drama, no playground nonsense, just woodland. Dog owners, however, will find this place absolutely ideal.

The beauty of Little Shaw is its proximity to the holiday parks dotted around Hailsham. Golden Cross is barely over a mile away, making this a genuine option for morning walks during a park holiday. If you're staying at Warren Wood Country Park or Horam Manor Country Park further out, it's worth a visit on a day you fancy something close by without driving far. Early morning trips tend to be best - fewer people, better light filtering through the canopy, and a genuine sense of the place before the day gets going.