A Local Woodland with a Wild Heart
Nestled on the edge of Hastings, St. Helen’s Woods offers over 100 acres of meadows, ponds and ancient woodland. Managed by the St. Helen’s Park Preservation Society, the area is a sanctuary for local wildlife and a peaceful escape for the community. Whether you’re here to walk the dog, picnic with the family, or simply enjoy the quiet beauty of nature, your support helps keep this space thriving for generations to come.
Wild beauty, right on your doorstep.
Ancient Woodland & Meadows
A rare mix of lowland meadow and centuries-old trees, home to diverse wildlife.
Community-Led Conservation
Maintained by volunteers and supported by local donations—your help makes a difference.
A Place to Connect with Nature
Peaceful walks, seasonal beauty, and a moment of calm on your doorstep.
Support Through Events
Attend or contribute to fundraising activities that keep the woods thriving.
Support That Lasts
Every donation helps preserve this special place for future generations to enjoy.
Discover How You Can Get Involved
From ensuring you take care of the nature reserve when visiting, to volunteering, fundraising or donating, there are many ways to support St Helen’s Woods.
Taking care of the woods, when you visit
Frequently asked questions?
St. Helen’s Woods is open all year round for walkers, families and nature lovers. Below are answers to common questions to help you plan your visit and enjoy the space responsibly.
There isn’t a carpark, only on-street parking. Please park with consideration for our neighbours. Walk or take public transport if feasible.
Well-behaved dogs are welcome! Please ensure you follow our dog-walkers code of conduct.
Yes, you can bring a picnic, but please take your litter home.
Fires and BBQs are not permitted.
We are currently working on plans for the BBQ area (the BBQ itself is not currently operational), so please sign up to our mailing list for updates.
Read more here.
Please contact the RSPCA.
The nature reserve is not currently wheelchair accessible. Some people find it possible to bring pushchairs into the woods but you may have to carry them over the gates.
Read more about the Hastings Borough Council/DEFRA byelaws for the St. Helen’s Woods nature reserve here.
Entrance to St. Helen’s Woods is free. However, donations towards the cost of upkeep of the nature reserve and paths will be gratefully received. Click here to Donate now
We are currently reviewing our policy on this. Please join our mailing list for updates.
Depending on the nature of the problem, please contact us via our contact form, or contact the relevant authorities e.g. Community Police, Hastings Borough Council Dog Warden, or the RSPCA. Please note our emails are not monitored every day.
Latest Information
Stay up to date with the latest News and Events from St. Helen’s Park Preservation Society.
This is where we share updates on our conservation projects, upcoming fundraising events, and the ongoing work of the charity. You’ll also find news about community involvement and the latest ways you can support our efforts. Live social media feeds are included here too, so you can follow our latest posts and photos as they happen – from wildlife sightings, to events and volunteer days in the nature reserve.
Help Care for and Protect St. Helen’s Woods
Your donation helps us safeguard the nature reserve, support conservation projects, and keep St Helen’s Woods thriving for everyone to enjoy.
Join our Mailing List
Sign up to our mailing list and we’ll send you an occasional newsletter with the latest news, information about fundraising and volunteering, and how you can help us protect and preserve St. Helen’s Woods