Cool spot: Wilderness Wood

 

Another Sussex gem this week – perfect if you need to cool off in the deliciously hot weather we’ve been having. Wilderness Wood (even the name is fab) is situated deep in the countryside near Uckfield and is just a brilliant place to take the kids for the day. As we have a dog that needs a fair amount of exercise, we’re no strangers to woodland walks, nature trails and ‘bug explores’, but on Alfie’s birthday we decided to venture to Wilderness Wood for  a Woodland Monsters experience. It was great fun.

One of the rangers read The Gruffalo to the group of children while we sat on logs in a circle, we camouflaged ourselves with charcoal and leaves (yes, even the parents) then we set off to follow clues to find the owl, fox, snake and, ultimately, Gruffalo. Once we had unearthed them all we set about building a Gruffalo shelter from twigs, making pine cone necklaces, then played a fairly manic game of hide the Gruffalo. While the special Woodkids events are fab (Fairy/Elf gardens, creepy crawlie hunts, wildlife safaris, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt), you could easily just spend the day exploring the wood of your own accord.

There are I Spy activity sheets available from The Barn, which also serves delicious home-cooked food, and an amazing wooden playground – the fireman’s pole was Alf’s favourite. There are also camping, glamping and party options on offer, all of which I’m planning to try. A fantastic day out.  Wilderness Wood is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5.30pm. Admission is £4.80 per adult, £2.95 per child – event tickets include admission to the wood.

Tagged days out, events, half term ideas, Sussex, The Gruffalo, Wilderness Wood, woodland