“Things to Do Near Chelwood Gate & Danehill”

The Quiet Acre — EVRC’s Glamping Journal

Beyond the forest on our doorstep, the villages either side of us have a fair bit worth wandering out for. Here’s what we’d point guests toward if they fancy a bit of exploring between yard visits.

Walk Between the Two Villages

There’s a lovely woodland walk connecting Chelwood Gate and Danehill — around five undulating miles through well-wooded countryside, mostly on quiet paths and tracks. Along the way you’ll pass within sight of Birch Grove House, once home to former Prime Minister Harold Macmillan (a private residence, so a respectful glance from the path is as close as you’ll get). It’s an easy, well-signed route, and a proper way to earn a pint at the other end.

A Proper Local Pub

Speaking of which — The Red Lion in Chelwood Gate and the Coach and Horses at Chelwood Common near Danehill are both solid options for exactly that. The Coach and Horses doubles as the start and end point for a well-loved local loop walk too, so it’s an easy one to build an afternoon around.

Chelwood Vachery

If you like your beauty spots a little wilder and less signposted, Chelwood Vachery is worth seeking out — a semi-abandoned forest garden with a folly bridge, tucked into the woodland and considerably quieter than the main Ashdown Forest car parks. Not manicured, but that’s rather the appeal.

Heaven Farm

Near Danehill, Heaven Farm is a handy stop for coffee or ice cream mid-walk — the kind of unpretentious farm shop stop that breaks a ramble up nicely, especially with kids in tow.

Give Bowls a Go

Slightly left-field, but the Isle of Thorns and District Bowls Club at Chelwood Gate is a genuinely friendly local club that welcomes newcomers, no experience needed. If you fancy trying something properly old-fashioned and sociable, it’s worth a look.

Worth the Wander

None of this is far — a few minutes’ drive or a decent walk from the yard — but it’s enough to fill a day either side of time spent with the horses, without ever really leaving the quiet behind.

Bookings for the bell tent are opening soon; follow along on our socials or check eastviewridingcentre.uk for updates.