The number of times we have visited Friston Forest for some family fun is increasing, rapidly. It is within a 10 minute drive of where we live so its an easy option for when we need some fresh air and nature play but don’t necessarily have a whole day to spend out and about. Lets face it, the washing doesn’t wash itself. Wouldn’t it be lovely if it did!
Location
Friston Forest is in East Sussex. It is a great option for people that don’t have a car and are looking for things to do or a day out with the kids in Sussex and its a free day out too! It’s located within the South Downs National Park, near Seaford. You can get the number 12 buses from central Brighton or Eastbourne to the Cuckmere Inn bus stop and then its just a short walk to the start of the forest from there.
When to Go
So far, we have mainly visited in winter. Having two toddlers who have boundless energy and a constant need for entertainment has meant we have found ourselves getting out so much more these last few months, regardless of the weather. We personally find being out of the house with them so much less stressful than being indoors and if they have been out, they are far better behaved for the rest of the day. This beautiful beech woodland would be a great place to visit in all seasons though. I’m looking forward to some outdoor play in the lush green forest and I bet its beautiful in autumn.
What to do
There are several walking trails in Friston Forest, however we tend to just off road. Luckily The Husband is like a human sat nav so he always knows where we are and how to get back to the car. Its not something I would attempt alone. I have a terrible sense of direction! With toddlers, its not always that easy to follow a trail as you are kind of limited by the distance they are comfortable walking, unless yours will happily sit in baby carrier. Scarlett isn’t a huge fan now she can walk and Lockie is nearly 4 so just too big. We have noticed though that the more walks we are going on, the further their little legs can go with out complaint.
There are Cycle trails if you are in the mood for a family bike ride.
Lockie and Scarlett are generally happy collecting sticks and rocks and just walking. It being winter, Scarlett gets to splosh about in mud which is just her favorite thing. We have built a den and we have also played in dens other people have built. We found a couple of christmas themed painted rocks on our Boxing Day walk (luckily they both found one each) which made their day.
If you are accompanied by longer legs, you could combine your Friston Forest walk with the Seven Sisters Walk. The walk is 8 miles so really not a suitable walking trail for young kids.
Friston Forest Eating Options
In spring/summer you will probably find us picnicking here often. There are picnic tables dotted about near the second car park as well as toilets. Unfortunately you can’t take portable or disposable BBQ’s but you can hire BBQ’s that are suitable for large groups of family and friends for £22 on the Forestry commission (who own the forest) website. For more info click here
The beautiful Saltmarsh Farm House Cafe is open from 10am-4pm everyday. Serving hot food using local seasonal ingredients, homemade cakes and locally roasted artisan coffee. It has a pretty courtyard and dogs are welcome out there.
If you fancy pub grub with a lovely view then The Cuckmere Inn is just a short walk away from the entrance.
There is a small car park fee of £3 for up to 3 hours and £4 for the day. Parking is free with a Forestry Commission Discovery Pass.