RSPB Fore Wood

The woodland around Battle holds something you won't find in most Sussex country parks - a proper working RSPB reserve that's genuinely wild. Fore Wood sits just outside town and it's the sort of place where you actually see birds rather than just hearing them rustle in the undergrowth. The paths wind through mature woodland with plenty of spots to stand still and watch, especially during spring migration when the place comes alive.

You're looking at a solid two to three hours here if you do it properly, though you can knock around for forty minutes and still catch something worthwhile. The trails are straightforward enough for families, though kids will need a bit of patience - this isn't a themed attraction with play equipment. What it does offer is genuine wildlife watching. Bring binoculars and a notebook. Serious birdwatchers will lose themselves here; casual visitors might find it a touch quiet depending on the season.

It's free to roam, which is the best bit. Stiff winds can sweep through the exposed bits, so dress for weather rather than the season. If you're staying at Beech Estate Campsite just down the road, it's an easy morning visit before heading into Battle town itself. The reserve works best in dawn or late afternoon when birds are most active, so plan around that if you can. Winter brings different species entirely - worth timing your stay accordingly.