Chawton Park Woods

Visitor information

Follow in the footsteps of Jane Austen at Chawton Park Wood...

Chawton Park Wood sits just beyond the village of Chawton and within the South Downs National Park. Containing some mighty beach trees, ravishing Norway maples and more recently planted Whitebeam trees, the woods boast a beautiful setting for a peaceful walk along accessible paths. 

These picturesque woods are also the home to a hidden literary secret, for these were the woods in which Jane Austen took her regular strolls.

Edward Austen Knight, brother of the famous novelist, provided a house in Chawton for his mother and sisters, and it was here that Jane spent her most productive literary years. It was from this red brick house that the tales which would so dazzle the world emerged, and from the local surroundings that Austen would draw much of her inspiration and ideas, including the Chawton Park Woods.

Chawton Woods provides some fantastic places to ride your horse.  Shared use of the forests requires patience and respect for fellow visitors. Please adhere to any signed no go areas.

At a glance

  • Walking trails 
  • Small car park 

Things to do

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

Chawton Park Woods offers informal walking opportunities starting...

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Solo mountain biker in a forest

The area on Combe Hill has a dedicated bike park, which is open to mountain bikers, please visit this website for more information and to book in advance.

The woodland offers a...

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