Hemsted Forest

Forest machinery will be operating onsite from January 2nd - Click here for more information on why these works are necessary

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.

 

At a glance

  • Walking 
  • Horse riding
  • Dogs welcome 

 

Things to do

From May 2025 equestrians can enjoy riding off bridleway on gravel tracks only throughout Hemsted Forest without requiring any permit from Forestry England or TROT.

 

De-boxing

We are...

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...

Nearby forests

Autumn Leaves

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...

Forest floor covered in bluebells at Abbot's Wood

Located near Polegate, Abbot's Wood is a great place for a stroll at any time of year, with walking trails, a medieval lake, play area, barbecues and picnic tables.

This ancient...

Early morning mist rising up above the lake in autumn

Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest is an award-winning visitor attraction with something for everyone. Open all year, Bedgebury is the perfect place for healthy outdoor activity...

Two ladies enjoying a dog walk at Jeskyns Community Woodland

Jeskyns is home to 360 acres of newly planted woodlands, meadows and orchards. With a good network of surfaced walking trails, children's play areas, café and even a dog activity...

Membership invitation - click to find out more about membership
Volunteer with us invitation - click to discover volunteer opportunities across England