Frith Wood

A proper beech and oak woodland just outside Petworth, Frith Wood is the sort of place you stumble upon rather than plan for - which is entirely the point. The trees are tall enough to make you feel properly away from things, and on a decent day the light filters through the canopy in that golden, almost cathedral-like way that makes you understand why people bang on about forests.

Walking here is genuinely pleasant. The paths are well-maintained without being over-trodden, and there's enough variety in the terrain to keep it interesting without requiring serious boots. You'll find yourself passing through denser sections where the woodland floor is thick with moss and leaf litter, then opening into breezier spots where you can actually see some distance. Most people give it an hour to ninety minutes, though you can easily stretch that if you're in no hurry.

Historically minded types will appreciate that this is proper Sussex woodland - the kind that's been here for centuries - though there's nothing particularly dramatic to see in terms of ruins or markers. It's more subtle than that. If you're based at Wakestone & Wild Glamping nearby, this makes an excellent morning walk without needing to drive far. Families with young kids will manage fine on the main paths, though it's not the sort of place with play equipment or facilities, so come prepared.

Worth visiting? Yes, but manage expectations. This isn't a spectacle. It's a wood that does what woods do quietly and well.