Ashdown Forest & Nutley Windmill loop

This moderate loop trail typically takes around 1 hour and 47 minutes to complete. However, allow extra time to enjoy the scenic viewpoints and explore the historic Nutley Windmill.

Parking is generally available near the Nutley Windmill, which serves as a convenient starting point for this loop. Specific parking areas might be signposted locally.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. However, as it passes through Ashdown Forest, which is home to diverse wildlife and ground-nesting birds, it's essential to keep dogs under close control or on a leash, especially during nesting seasons.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer vibrant heathland and woodland scenery, while autumn brings beautiful colours. Winter provides crisp views, but paths can be muddy. If you want to see the small Garden of Eden Waterfall, visiting after rainfall is best.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access Ashdown Forest. It is one of the largest open access spaces in the South East of England, freely available for public enjoyment. However, please respect the natural environment and follow the Countryside Code.

The terrain is diverse, ranging from narrow woodland paths to wider tracks. While generally accessible, some sections can be quite hilly and uneven, requiring sure-footedness. It's considered a moderate hike suitable for most fitness levels.

Highlights include the historic Nutley Windmill, the oldest working windmill in Sussex. You'll also pass through Ashdown Forest with its open heathland and woodlands, offering "huge, open vistas." Don't miss the panoramic views from Camp Hill Viewpoint, and look out for the small Garden of Eden Waterfall after rain.

The Ashdown Forest is rich in wildlife. Keep an eye out for various deer species, including fallow, roe, sika, and muntjac. You might also hear skylarks and cuckoos, especially during spring and summer.

Yes, sections of this route overlap with established long-distance trails. Approximately 34% of the loop follows the Wealdway, and about 7% coincides with the Vanguard Way.

While the trail itself is primarily through natural landscapes, the nearby village of Nutley, where the Nutley Windmill is located, may offer options for refreshments or a pub stop before or after your hike.

Rated as moderate, the trail is generally suitable for most fitness levels, including beginners with some hiking experience. Its relatively short distance and manageable elevation gain make it a good option, though some uneven and hilly sections require a basic level of fitness and sure-footedness.