New and improved Forest Centre opens at Ashdown Forest

The new and improved Forest Centre is in Ashdown Forest, one of the largest public access spaces in the South East, and now includes the Gateway to Nature entrance with a decked area, panoramic windows and accessibility features designed to improve the visitor experience.

A newly opened Volunteer Hub has also been unveiled, providing improved amenities for the dedicated team who support the forest year-round.

Cllr Christina Coleman, who represents the Danehill and Fletching ward at Wealden District Council, said: "It is always a treat to visit Ashdown Forest, but with this newly refurbished visitor centre welcoming you, you have a beautiful, cosy space to make your time in the Forest even more inviting.

"The new fully accessible decking area and 'Changing Places' toilet facility means that we can welcome even more visitors and ensure that everyone can access the Forest and all the benefits that come from being close to nature."

The upgraded visitor centre was made possible by funding from the Friends of Ashdown Forest, a charity that supports the Forest through preservation and conservation projects.

Pat Arnold, chairman of the Friends of Ashdown Forest, said: "The Friends of Ashdown Forest are delighted to be funding the newly extended and refurbished Visitor Centre.

Cutting the ribbon. (Image: Peter Lindsey)

"We think this will make the Centre a welcoming location for both visitors and volunteers who support the Forest.

"A big thank you must go to all our members for making this possible."

The Volunteer Hub now includes a drying room, changing area, kitchen, and social space.

The new facilities were officially opened on Thursday, December 4 to coincide with the Friends’ annual general meeting.

Mark Pearson, chief executive of Ashdown Forest, welcomed the improvements.

He said: "I am delighted that visitors, volunteers, and staff can benefit from the improved facilities at the Ashdown Forest Centre.

"This has been made possible thanks to generous funding from the Friends of Ashdown Forest – an incredibly supportive organisation that has donated more than a million pounds in total over the years to support this very special place."