Ashdown Park Hotel Sussex sits in the heart of Ashdown Forest — the real-life landscape that inspired A.A. Milne’s Hundred Acre Wood. In 2026, Ashdown Park Hotel Sussex is marking 100 years of Winnie-the-Pooh with a year-long calendar of events that blends woodland nostalgia with genuine luxury.
For Brighton residents, this is one of the most compelling day trips and overnight escapes within easy reach — approximately 40 minutes by car through the East Sussex countryside.
The Setting
Visitors to Ashdown Park Hotel Sussex will discover a destination that is as magical as the stories inspired by this enchanting location.
Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club is a Victorian Gothic mansion set in 186 acres of grounds on the edge of Ashdown Forest. The forest itself — 6,500 acres of ancient heathland and woodland — is where A.A. Milne walked with his son Christopher Robin and their bear. The landscape directly inspired the stories. Pooh Sticks Bridge is a short walk from the estate.
The grounds of Ashdown Park Hotel Sussex offer a spectacular backdrop for exploring the wonders of the nearby forest, making it a perfect getaway.
It is one of those rare places where the literary and the real are genuinely inseparable.
Ashdown Park Hotel Sussex: The 2026 Winnie-the-Pooh Calendar
At Ashdown Park Hotel Sussex, guests can immerse themselves in events that celebrate the legacy of Winnie-the-Pooh throughout the year.
The Hunny Pot Afternoon Tea — ongoing until 30 November A woodland-themed feast of honey-laced cakes, choux and picnic sandwiches — from classic scones to a Woozle Cheese & Ham Bake. £38 per adult, £16 per child.
A Storybook Stay — ongoing until 22 December Overnight package including a trip to Pooh Corner, guided walks in the Hundred Acre Wood, dinner, stay and breakfast. One of the most distinctive family breaks in Sussex.
This experience at Ashdown Park Hotel Sussex guarantees fun for families and a chance to create memories in the Hundred Acre Wood.
The Hundred Aker Trail — 14 April A new garden trail through landscapes inspired by Pooh and friends, celebrating National Gardening Day.
Botanical Art Class — 17 April At nearby Borde Hill Garden — 17 acres of Edwardian splendour — a two-hour watercolour workshop with botanical artist Penny Sanderson. £45 per person including garden admission and refreshments.
The Hunny Pot Cocktail Masterclass — 13 May Honey-inspired cocktails for World Cocktail Day. Three handcrafted drinks, expert bartenders. £25 per person.
Hanging Basket Workshop & Afternoon Tea — 26–27 May Hands-on with spring blooms while sipping afternoon tea. £52.50 per person.
Sip, Paint & Celebrate the Hundred Aker Wood — 10 & 30 July / 11 & 18 September A relaxed evening of painting with local artists, Prosecco and nibbles. Take home your own artwork. £55 per person.
Honey-Themed Supper Club — 30 September Four-course menu paired with fine wines at the Anderida Restaurant. £80 per person.
Dining at Ashdown Park Hotel Sussex is a treat, with seasonal menus inspired by the surrounding landscapes.
Winnie-the-Pooh 100th Anniversary — 14 October The milestone anniversary of A.A. Milne’s original publication, marked throughout the estate with events and exhibitions.
Ass=”font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]”>The anniversary celebrations at Ashdown Park Hotel Sussex will engage visitors in the magic of A.A. Milne’s stories.
An Evening with Gyles Brandreth — 17 October Broadcaster, author and Pooh expert Gyles Brandreth joins for dinner, storytelling and a charity raffle in the hotel chapel. £195 per person.
Also Near Brighton: The Grand Hotel Eastbourne
Ashdown Park Hotel Sussex is also a gateway for exploring East Sussex’s scenic splendour.
For a classic Sussex seaside escape, The Grand Hotel Eastbourne overlooks the seafront and the South Downs. Spring 2026 highlights include Sip & Paint evenings from 1 May (£55), a Cocktail Masterclass on 15 May (£25) and a Community Beach Clean on 8 June — free and open to all.
Up to 25% off spring stays at both properties until 31 May 2026.
Practical Details
The tranquillity found in Ashdown Park Hotel Sussex makes it a desirable destination for relaxation and exploration.
Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club 📍 Wych Cross, Forest Row, East Sussex RH18 5JR 🚗 Approx. 40 minutes from Brighton 🌐 ashdownpark.com
The Grand Hotel Eastbourne 📍 King Edwards Parade, Eastbourne BN21 4EQ 🚂 30 minutes from Brighton by train 🌐 grandeastbourne.com
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