Dallington Forest

Dallington Forest is a protected scientific research site in East Sussex featuring a steep-sided valley carved by Willingford Stream, which creates distinct northern and southern woodland sections. The roughly 16-hectare area includes diverse habitats accessible via marked walking trails for nature observation.

Natural England designated the site as a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1985 to protect its ecological features and biodiversity. This designation recognized the forest's importance in preserving specific woodland types found in the region.

The forest reflects traditional English woodland management through its mix of beech, oak, birch, and hazel trees adapted to different slopes and conditions. Visitors can observe how various woodland sections are actively maintained and shaped by forestry practices.

The site is accessible via walking trails that wind through different habitats and offer good viewing opportunities. Visit during drier periods when possible, as some paths can be muddy given the steep terrain and moist conditions typical of the valley.

The valley creates a warm, moist microclimate that supports different tree distributions on each side. Beech and oak dominate the north-facing slope, while birch and hazel populate the south, a contrast visitors can clearly notice while walking through both woodland sections.