Explore ancient woodlands and diverse wildlife in this free-to-visit nature reserve perfect for family walks and outdoor discovery.

Hargate Forest is a woodland nature reserve managed by the Woodland Trust, offering visitors the opportunity to experience natural woodland habitats and observe diverse wildlife in their natural environment. The forest provides an excellent destination for families seeking outdoor activities without admission costs, with pathways suitable for walking and exploration across the woodland landscape. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities including walking, wildlife spotting, and nature observation throughout the seasons. The reserve is designed to be accessible to families of all ages, with pushchair-friendly routes available and a dog-friendly policy welcoming pet owners. Children and families can engage in nature discovery and seasonal woodland experiences, making it an ideal location for educational outdoor visits and active family time. As part of the Woodland Trust's network of accessible woodlands across the UK, Hargate Forest represents a commitment to protecting natural habitats while providing free public access to nature. The site encourages visitors to engage with woodland ecosystems, observe seasonal changes, and develop a deeper appreciation for trees and wildlife conservation.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

A

Andy Story

2 years ago

Fairly recently discovered this place, and it has zoomed in as my new number one walking/dog walking spot in TW. Wonderful that this is on our doorstep.

S

Sam Liddicoat

3 years ago

One of my favourite walking spots in Tunbridge Wells. It's full of different kinds of trees, which are beautiful to look at and walk through. You can stick to the beaten track or walk through the trees, both of which are lovely. There are plenty of different paths and routes to take, so each walk can be a different experience. Be warned it does get very muddy in places, so wear appropriate shoes!

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mark Prysor-Jones

4 years ago

Lovely woods, plenty of paths to follow and some hidden things to stumble across. Can be muddy in places. Great for dog walking.

P

Peter Hall

5 years ago

Really good place for a walk. Good paths. And a geocache to find too.

C

Chloe Simmons

5 years ago

Tunbridge Wells hidden gem! Watch out for deer, especially if your dog loves to chase, they'll be missing for ages!!

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026