High Weald Aonb Map

Introduction

High Weald AONB is a beautiful countryside area in South East England, covering parts of Kent, East Sussex, and West Sussex. This area is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and diverse culture. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, High Weald AONB has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, and much more!

Top Attractions

High Weald AONB is home to many fascinating attractions that are sure to leave you spellbound. One of the top attractions is Bodiam Castle, a 14th-century castle that’s surrounded by a moat and set in beautiful grounds. Another must-see attraction is Scotney Castle, a 14th-century castle that’s set in a picturesque estate with a moated manor house, gardens, and woodland walks.

If you’re interested in history and want to learn more about the area’s past, head to the Weald and Downland Living Museum, where you can immerse yourself in rural life from the past 1,000 years. For a taste of modernity, visit the vibrant seaside town of Hastings, which is known for its fishing industry, quirky shops, and pebble beaches.

Hidden Gems

High Weald AONB is also home to some hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. One of them is Bateman’s, a 17th-century house that was once the home of Rudyard Kipling, the famous author of The Jungle Book. The house and gardens are open to the public and offer a fascinating insight into Kipling’s life and work.

Another hidden gem is Groombridge Place, a beautiful country estate that’s home to a moated manor house, enchanting gardens, and an award-winning treetop walkway. For a unique experience, head to the Chalybeate Spring, a natural spring that’s believed to have healing properties. The spring is located in the village of High Hurstwood and is a great place to relax and unwind.

Food Scene

High Weald AONB is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of culinary delights on offer. The area is known for its local produce, including cheese, wine, and beer. One of the best places to sample these delights is at the farmers’ markets, which take place regularly throughout the AONB.

If you’re looking for a more formal dining experience, head to The Beacon, a Michelin-starred restaurant that’s located in the town of Tunbridge Wells. The restaurant offers a seasonal menu that’s inspired by the local area and is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Budget-Friendly Tips

High Weald AONB can be an expensive destination, but there are ways to save money and still have a great time. One of the best ways to save money is to take advantage of the free attractions, such as the countryside walks and the museums that offer free entry.

You can also save money by staying in a budget-friendly accommodation, such as a hostel or a campsite. Another great way to save money is to bring your own food and drinks, especially if you’re planning on hiking or camping.

Outdoor Adventures

High Weald AONB is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploring the great outdoors. One of the best hiking trails is the High Weald Landscape Trail, which covers 146km and takes you through some of the AONB’s most beautiful landscapes.

If you’re looking for a more adrenaline-fueled adventure, head to Go Ape, a treetop adventure park that offers zip lines, rope bridges, and other thrilling activities. You can also try your hand at kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and other water sports at Bewl Water, a beautiful reservoir that’s surrounded by stunning scenery.

Family-Friendly Activities

High Weald AONB is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that will keep both kids and adults entertained. One of the best family-friendly attractions is Drusillas Park, a zoo and adventure park that’s home to over 100 different animal species.

You can also take a ride on the Bluebell Railway, a heritage railway that offers a unique way to explore the AONB’s beautiful landscapes. For a more active experience, head to Bedgebury Pinetum, a forest park that’s home to miles of cycling and walking trails, as well as a Go Ape treetop adventure park.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for a more unique experience, High Weald AONB has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. One of them is the Vineyard Experience at Hush Heath Estate, where you can learn about the wine-making process and sample some of the estate’s award-winning wines.

You can also take a tour of the historic oast houses, which were once used for drying hops. The oast houses are a unique feature of the Kentish countryside and offer a fascinating insight into the area’s agricultural history.

Natural Wonders

High Weald AONB is home to some of England’s most beautiful natural wonders. One of the most stunning is the Seven Sisters, a series of chalk cliffs that rise up from the English Channel and offer breathtaking views of the coastline.

You can also visit the High Rocks, a beautiful area of sandstone outcrops that’s surrounded by woodland and offers some of the best climbing and bouldering in the area. For a more peaceful experience, head to the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, a beautiful wetland area that’s home to a wide range of bird species.

Vibrant Nightlife

High Weald AONB may be a rural area, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking in nightlife. There are plenty of pubs, bars, and restaurants that offer a lively atmosphere and a chance to meet locals and visitors alike.

One of the best places to experience the nightlife is in the town of Tunbridge Wells, which is known for its vibrant music scene and quirky bars. The Forum is a popular music venue that hosts a range of live music events, while The Pantiles is a historic colonnaded walkway that’s lined with bars and restaurants.

Local Markets

High Weald AONB is home to some fantastic local markets, where you can sample the area’s delicious produce and buy unique gifts and souvenirs. One of the best markets is the Tunbridge Wells Farmers’ Market, which takes place on the second and fourth Saturday of every month.

You can also visit the Rye Farmers’ Market, which takes place every Wednesday and offers a wide range of local produce, including fresh fish, meat, vegetables, and fruit.

Beaches and Mountains

High Weald AONB may not be a coastal area, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking in beaches. The area is home to some stunning pebble beaches, including Hastings Beach and Winchelsea Beach, that offer a great place to relax and unwind.

If you’re looking for a more mountainous experience, head to the Ashdown Forest, a beautiful area of heathland that’s surrounded by rolling hills and offers some of the best hiking and cycling in the area.

Cultural Immersion

High Weald AONB is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich history and a diverse community. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the area’s culture is to attend one of the many festivals and events that take place throughout the year.

One of the most popular events is the Hastings Seafood and Wine Festival, which takes place every September and offers a chance to sample some of the area’s best seafood and wine. You can also attend the Tunbridge Wells International Art Fair, which showcases some of the best contemporary art from around the world.

Walking Tours

High Weald AONB is a great place to explore on foot, with a wide range of walking tours that offer a chance to discover the area’s rich history and stunning landscapes. One of the best tours is the Tunbridge Wells Circular Walk, which covers 27km and takes you through some of the area’s most picturesque villages and countryside.

You can also take a guided tour of the historic town of Rye, which offers a fascinating insight into the area’s medieval past. For a more adventurous experience, head to the Ashdown Forest and take a guided walk that will take you through some of the area’s most beautiful landscapes.

Architectural Marvels

High Weald AONB is home to some stunning architectural marvels, including historic castles, manor houses, and churches. One of the best examples is Penshurst Place, a beautiful stately home that’s set in stunning gardens and has been owned by the same family for over 460 years.

You can also visit the 12th-century Bayham Old Abbey, which is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers a