Hemsted Forest

Visitor information

Located to the west of Ashford, Hemsted Forest offers approximately 398 hectares of woodland for you to explore!

With around five miles of hard surface road and great networks of unsurfaced tracks, Hemsted Forest makes for a great day out, whatever the season!

The forest houses a mixture of conifer and broadleaf woodland and is rich in different bird species.

Parking at Hemsted Forest

Parking at Hemsted Forest has been free of charge for many years. Unfortunately, as our operational costs keep rising, this is no longer sustainable and parking charges will apply from June, 2026. 

Money from car parking is essential to help us continue caring for the nation's forests, including Hemsted Forest and making them welcoming places to visit.

Alternatively, become a member with our Forestry England national membership. Find out more. 

 

At a glance

  • Walking
  • Horse riding
  • Dogs welcome 

 

Things to do

Horse riding at Hemsted Forest

Hemsted Forest offers equestrians a chance to ride off the bridleway on gravel tracks to explore almost 400 hectares of woodland. No permit is required from Forestry England or...

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Walking at Hemsted Forest

Walking is the perfect way to get some fresh air and explore some of the area's most beautiful landscapes.

Hemsted has around five miles of hard surface road around the forest...

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