St Leonard's Forest

Visitor information

Discover tales of hermits and dragons at St Leonard's Forest!

Part of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, located east of Horsham, St Leonard's Forest isn't short of fascinating history. 

Legend has it that a French hermit once lived here in the sixth century. He famously fought and killed a dragon in the forest and it is from him, St Leonard, that the forest takes its name! 

Visit the forest to immerse yourself in the cultural history, discover rich wildlife and take a peaceful woodland walk. 

If you want to do your bit for the forest, the Friends of St Leonard’s Forest work with Gatwick Greenspace to restore and manage the heathland in the forest. 

At a glance 

  • Walking trails 
  • Horse riding 
  • Dogs welcome 

Things to do

Horse riding at St Leonard's Forest

St Leonards offers a network of riding which include a diverse and beautiful range of woodland habitats. Off-bridleway riding is restricted to specific routes and only permitted if you are a TROT member.

There is no public bridleway. There are no waymarkers for the routes.

Further details can be found by calling TROT on 01622 735599 or visiting the TROT website. When riding you must be display your TROT permit. A map will be given to you after purchasing a membership.

For more information on our facilities, opening times and contact details, please see our visitor information.

 

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Walking at St Leonard's Forest

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

Discover dragon-filled myths on a range of open paths and trails starting from the Roosthole car park.

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Nearby forests

Wood white butterfly perched on a purple flower

Frillinghurst Wood

Nestled snugly into the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, about 3km north-east of  Haslemere, Frillinghurst Woods provides a pocket of peace for you to escape your everyday. Head out on the circular path for a reflective walk and make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the range of wildlife that call the wood home. 

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Houghton Forest

Houghton Forest

A treasured part of the South Downs, Houghton Forest is located north of Arundel. 

Explore Houghton Forest on foot or bring your bike for a woodland ride!

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Autumn Leaves

Birchden Wood

Come and explore Birchden Wood, south of Royal Tunbridge Wells, it's a perfect day out for families, walkers and climbers. Harrison's Rocks, a sandstone crag owned by the BMC, are right next door and Birchden makes the perfect spot to escape out of the city and into the woods. 

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Birch trees in autumn

Bourne Wood, Farnham

Located near Farnham and set above a large heathland clearing, Bourne Wood offers impressive views over the surrounding pine forests.

The sand soil provides a good walking surface, and the many public footpaths give great access to the woodland, where you can take in the beautiful natural scenery. 

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