Park & Woodlands
A Tour Around the Woods
Two circular trails invite you to explore the woods – keep to the paths to help us in our efforts to preserve and protect the natural landscape. The 2 km (1 1/4 mile) yellow arrow trail guides you through sweeping landscapes, while the shorter 1 km (1/2 mile) green arrow trail offers a gentler route. Be mindful that the paths can be muddy underfoot and moderately steep in places, though the green route is more accessible for those with limited mobility.
Wild beauty, right on your doorstep.
Springs, Ponds and Wet Woodland
The springs and seeps that issue from fissures in the local sandstone topped with wadhurst clay, feed the streams and ponds present in these rare wet woodland habitats.
Golden-ringed dragonfly can be seen acrobatically manoeuvring in the nearby meadows and glades. Boardwalks and bridges allow access to the wetter areas, whilst protecting the woods from trampling. The seasonality and variability of the water flow, heavier rainfall and longer droughts create unique challenges in the management of this aspect of the reserve.
The stream as it continues down the valley provides connectivity from the High Weald to the centre of Hastings eventually feeding into the water course in Alexandra Park.
Hillside Fields
These steep, sun-drenched slopes are brimming with life. Goldfinches flit between grasses, harvesting seeds. The land teems with ants, grasshoppers, and butterflies, while on warm summer evenings, you may be lucky enough to see glowworms flickering across the fields.
Careful management of this grassland encourages the growth of unique flowers like Yellow Rattle and Red Bartsia, as well as clovers and trefoils, providing abundant nourishment for the insects that call this place home.
This ancient semi-improved meadow has sweeping views.
A rare mix of lowland meadow and centuries-old trees.
Arboretum & Gowers Field
Formally allotments, this area now boasts an impressive collection of rare trees from around the globe, including a striking Magnolia tree. Late summer brings the sound of grass being mown, encouraging the growth of wildflowers and, with luck, the return of a rare orchid that once graced these meadows.
Also here stands the commemorative Princetown Gold tree—a Canadian Golden Maple, planted to mark the Society’s 50th anniversary in 2010, its golden leaves shimmering in the sunlight.
De Roemer Field
Offering sweeping views over the estate towards the distant sea. In spring, the ground is carpeted with the delicate blues and violets of Bluebells, Common Milkwort, and Dog Violets. By summer, the landscape shifts, with the pink spikes of Common Spotted Orchids and the bright yellow of Yellow Rattle taking centre stage.
To the west, a copse has been planted in memory of Alderman Arthur Blackman, the father of Isabel, the estate’s principal benefactor. In 1987, an oak tree was planted to the east of Carp Pond to commemorate the centenary of Grey Owl’s birth.
A serene meadow, dotted with mature trees.
In every corner of the estate, nature reveals itself in stunning detail.
Bill Vint Meadow
This semi-improved grassland meadow, once grazed by ponies, evokes the reserve’s past as part of the grand Ore Place estate. Remnants of an old orchard speak to its history, while the now-dense vegetation provides a refuge for a multitude of insects. Butterflies like the Gatekeeper and Meadow Brown flutter among the grasses, while the air hums with the life of this thriving ecosystem.
From the flutter of wings to the quiet rustle of leaves, it is a world of wonder, preserved for all to experience.
Barbecue Site
Nestled within the heart of the woods, this charming glade lies beneath the towering Oak and Beech trees.
A wide avenue, stretching from north to south, meanders through the site, connecting with the full network of trails. The sun-dappled glade provides a perfect haven for woodland flowers and insects, flourishing in this sheltered spot.
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