The Conservators of Ashdown Forest
Our main appeal
Support Ashdown Forest
Parking is free, however we ask that if you have enjoyed your visit, you might consider donating towards the preservation of the amenity spaces on Ashdown Forest.
Messages from supporters
What a beautiful place to sit and reflect. Very interesting centre, with very helpful and knowledgeable staff.
Since I’m using your facility, I felt it only fair to at least make a donation. Thank you
It’s very calming
Britain has lost a staggering 90% of its heathland in the last 100 years together with the extinction of species associated with that area. Ashdown Forest is the largest remaining area of lowland heathland in South East England and it's vital not to lose it.
Because the Rangers picked up our dog in the road and took it to the Centre
We love Ashdown Forest and contribute to its upkeep for us and future generations.
I set up a small business called Ashdown Botanicals and I’ve pledged that I will donate 1.5% of the proceeds every year to help support the forest. I opened a year ago today snd that was 1.5% of my takings! I hope it helps!
The Ashdown Forest is beautiful and so well looked after. I use it several times a week and now I can contribute
About The Conservators of Ashdown Forest
The responsibility for managing Ashdown Forest lies with an independent body, the Board of Conservators of Ashdown Forest.
The Conservators of Ashdown Forest are a Non Profit Making Body.
Originally set up in 1885, the Board has been regulated under a series of Acts of Parliament, the most recent being the Ashdown Forest Act 1974. There, in section 16, it is stated that:
"It shall be the duty of the Conservators at all times as far as possible to regulate and manage the forest as an amenity and place of resort subject to the existing rights of common upon the forest and to protect such rights of common, to protect the forest from encroachments, and to conserve it as a quiet and natural area of outstanding beauty".
Membership of the Board is also laid out in this Act. Eight members are appointed by East Sussex County Council, two are appointed by Wealden District Council, five are elected by local commoners and one (the Chairman of the County Council) represents the owner of the Forest which (since 1988) has been the Ashdown Forest Trust.
Ashdown Forest is a unique and special place - 6,500 acres of protected heathland and woodland, paths, rides and trails, streams and magnificent views to the North and South Downs. A recent Visitor Survey estimated that there were 4541 visits per day to Ashdown Forest with just a small staff team, supported by teams of volunteers, who work to 'regulate and manage the forest as an amenity and place of resort and to conserve it as a quiet and natural area of outstanding beauty.’
There is no charge for parking in any of the car parks on Ashdown Forest, however we ask that if you have enjoyed your visit, you would consider donating towards the up-keep of the amenity spaces on the Forest.
Thank you for your support!