Bacon's Land

Bacon's Land is a proper chunk of Sussex woodland just outside Pulborough, the kind of forest that rewards a decent walk without demanding your full day. Ancient oak and beech trees form a thick canopy overhead, creating that deep-green quiet you don't get in managed country estates. The paths wind through decent enough, with plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities if you're patient - deer aren't uncommon, and you'll hear more birdsong than traffic.

This is walker territory, really. History enthusiasts might appreciate that you're treading old ground - these forests have been part of the Sussex landscape for centuries - but if you're after dramatic vistas or interpretive boards, you'll be disappointed. It's a working woodland in many respects, and that's exactly why it's worth a visit. Families with decent-legged children will manage a couple of hours without complaint; toddlers might struggle with the rougher sections.

There's no visitor centre or facilities that I'm aware of, so come prepared. It's free to access, which is the best kind of surprise when you're staying at one of the nearby parks like Honeybridge or Cattlestone Farm. Time your visit for morning light if you can - the way it filters through the canopy is genuinely lovely. Allow two to three hours for a proper wander, less if you just fancy stretching your legs. It slots nicely into a broader woodland tour of the area - the South Downs aren't far away, and Pulborough itself is pleasant enough for a post-walk pint.