Overview
Stroll the trails running over heath and grasslands dotted with dense clumps of yellow Gorse and swaying stands of Birch, Oak or pines. The paths that criss-cross the hills and valleys of this 74-hectare reserve are steep in places, carpeted in pine needles in others.
Streams, small ponds and muddy bogs in the valleys are a haven for birds and insects, and you may spot Roe or Fallow deer at dusk. Expect cooler fresh air because of the slight altitude, plenty of birdsong, and calm beauty all year round. Keep an eye out for sheep, cattle and Exmoor Ponies grazing as part of our conservation strategy.
Mark Monk-Terry Site ManagerI never get tired of watching the little Redstarts with their ‘twanging’ tails that look like they’re on springs. It’s a real joy to see them here on the heathlands.
Know before you go
Open at all times
The reserve is open at all times
Reserve size – 74 hectares
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
How to get here
Old Lodge is set in the middle of the much larger Ashdown Forest – on the west side of the B2026 between Maresfield and Hartfield, about a third of a mile north of the junction with the B2188 at Kings Standing.
Access is directly from the small car park, just north of the Old Lodge private road. The Conservators of Ashdown Forest own the car park, and car parking charges now apply (not set by or collected by us).
Getting around the reserve
- There is a trail around the reserve
- Wide unsurfaced paths
- Some steep slopes and some steps at the entrance
- Can get very muddy in the winter
- Not suitable for wheelchairs or buggies
Dogs welcome on leads
This reserve is a refuge for rare animals and birds, many of which live on the ground and are easily disturbed by dogs. We ask that dogs are kept on short leads at all times of the year.
Nearest toilet
At the Ashdown Forest Centre
Dos and don’ts
Keep your dog on a lead
No fires or barbecues
Take your litter home
Smell the pine trees and enjoy the view
Male Redstart © John LauperThe story of the reserve
People first settled around Old Lodge in the Bronze Age, when bears, wolves and wildcats still roamed these forested hills. In medieval times, it became a royal hunting ground where nobles came to hunt the deer. In the Second World War the hills of Old Lodge were used for military exercises. After the war, it became public access land to be conserved
Did you know?
Grey area
The Ashdown Forest is named after the fine, greyish sand in the area.
Rich in fungi
Nearly 250 species of fungi have been recorded at Old Lodge.
Lost predators
Wildcats and wolves lived here thousands of years ago.
