Duke's Rough

Duke's Rough sits on the outskirts of Pulborough as a proper slice of Sussex woodland - the kind of place where you can actually hear yourself think. It's a modest forest that doesn't demand hours of your time, which is precisely why it works so well as a half-morning stop if you're camping nearby at Cattlestone Farm or Goweco Glamping.

The woodland itself is straightforward: wooded paths, open glades, and enough space to let kids burn off energy without worrying about them getting lost. Dog walkers get the most out of it, frankly. There's something uncomplicated about Duke's Rough - no visitor centre, no café, just trees and paths. Access appears to be free, and you can wander for anything from 20 minutes to an hour depending on how thorough you're being.

It's not dramatic. Don't come expecting Ashdown Forest levels of open views or the grandeur of Knepp Wildland Safaris just down the road - though Knepp's actual safari experience does make for a cracking day out if you've got the budget. Duke's Rough is more of a pocket-sized local resource, the sort of place you pop into while camping in the area rather than planning an afternoon around.

Best visited early morning or late afternoon when Pulborough's walkers aren't out in force. Suit yourself for mud if there's been rain. Families with young children will find it manageable; teenagers might find 30 minutes is plenty. It's well worth the walk from your campsite if you're staying close by.