Out and about in the High Weald

If you like exploring the countryside, this selection of places to visit should appeal. All set in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, they offer the chance to walk, ride or cycle.

Wilderness Wood

Wilderness Wood is a working wood covering 61 acres. It has trails, an adventure playground, picnic places, a tea room and garden, and exhibitions all about wood. In the workshop you can see garden furniture being made, and there is an opportunity to buy this from the shop. The wood is open daily all year round, from 10am to 5.30pm (or dusk if earlier).

• Where is it? On the A272 in Hadlow Down, five miles north east of Uckfield.
• How do I get there? From Uckfield, leave the A22 Uckfield bypass at the Budletts roundabout and follow signs for the A272 / Heathfield.
• Nearest train station: Buxted – approximately three miles away.
• Cost: There is an entry fee.
• More information: Wilderness Wood website

Ashdown Forest Llama Park

The Llama Park is set in 30 acres of beautiful countryside with views across Ashdown Forest to Gills Lap. It has more than 100 llamas and alpacas, as well as angora and cashmere goats, a farm trail, adventure play area, picnic area and coffee shop. You can even take a llama for a walk! The park is open daily (except at Christmas), from 10am to 5pm, or dusk if earlier. Llama walks must be booked in advance.

• Where is it? On Ashdown Forest, on the A22 approximately five miles south of East Grinstead.
• How do I get there? From Hadlow Down head west towards the A22, then north towards Wych Cross. The park is 300 yards south of the junction with the A275.
• Nearest train station: East Grinstead – approximately five miles away.
• Cost: There is an entry fee.
• More information: Ashdown Forest Llama Park website

Forest Way Country Park

A former railway line, the Forest Way is a flat tree-lined track winding through peaceful fields and small farms. The main route is nine and a half miles long, but there are also a number of shorter circular trails leading off it which vary in length and difficulty. Horse riding and cycling are allowed, and bikes can be hired at Forest Row.

• Where is it? Near the B2110, running between Forest Row in the east and Groombridge in the west.
• How do I get there? From the Llama park, head north on the A22 towards Forest Row. You can also join it at Hartfield, Withyam or Groombridge.
• Nearest train station: East Grinstead – approximately three miles to Forest Row; Groombridge – approximately half a mile away.
• Cost: Free of charge.
• More information: Forest Way Country Park page