Overview
This unassuming community woodland nestled in the heart of Cooden, Bexhill, is ideal for a short walk following one of its many meandering paths, or taking part in community conservation and learning events which are held here.
Perfect for a pause in nature, the reserve holds quiet sensory surprises and wonder whatever the season; featuring the scent of Bluebells and Wild Garlic in spring, flashes of Firecrests, Treecreepers and Pipistrelle Bats, and the calls of resident Sparrowhawks and Tawny Owls.
Abi Weeden Head of Wilder LearningGillham Wood feels like a secret sanctuary – as you walk up the ride, you’re immediately immersed in woodland and you forget you’re in the middle of a residential area!
Know before you go
Opening times
The reserve is open at all times
Free to visit
All our open reserves our free to visit, but if you enjoy your visit please consider donating to Sussex Wildlife Trust to help us manage these special places
Reserve size – 3 hectares
How to get here
Gillham Wood Nature Reserve, Hawkhurst Way, Bexhill, Bexhill-on-Sea, TN39 3BA
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A five-minute walk from Cooden Beach Train station.
There is a bus stop outside of the entrance on Hawkhurst Way / Withyham Road.
There is a small lay-by and free on-street parking on Hawkhurst Way / Withyham Road.
Getting around
There are no hard standing paths on this reserve.
Paths can get muddy during wet weather.
Dogs
Dogs are welcome, but please keep them under close control and clean up after your dog.
Nearest toilet
Check Toilet Map for a range of options.
Dos and don’ts
- Keep your dog under close control
- Take your litter home
- Don’t pick flowers or forage
- No camping
- Tell us what nature you’ve found via iRecord
A space for community
This is a Community reserve, with events and activities focused on engaging local schools, teachers and residents to this important green space.
If you’re interested in being involved in volunteering events at the reserve
If you’re part of a school community and want to learn more about how this green space can support learning.
Gillham Wood Conservation day Holly management March 2026
Bluebell © Sue CurnockThe story of the reserve
The woodland came into Sussex Wildlife Trust care in 1973, after it was bequeathed to us by Dorothy and Philip Constant ‘for a lasting wildlife refuge’.
After the Great Storm of 1987, Friends of Gillham Wood were formed in 1988 and assisted in the clearance of the site from storm debris. The Friends continued daily maintenance and care of the reserve, alongside our reserves team, for many years.
Gillham Wood is now in the care of our Communities team, who have ambitious plans to engage the surrounding schools and community with the reserve.
Did you know?
Bexhill smuggling trail
The Gillham Family, leaders of the ruthless ‘Little Common Gang’, used the wood – once part of a much larger wooded area – as a hideout until the 1830s.
Wildlife refuge
The area east of the main path (ride) is a non-intervention area, reserved for wildlife only, with no accessible paths.
WW2 bomb crater
This fills with water seasonally and supports a range of wildlife.
