Nestled in East Sussex, Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club offers a storybook escape, drawing inspiration from the landscapes that A.A. Milne immortalized in his Winnie-the-Pooh stories. Set on 186 acres of lakes, gardens, and woodland trails, the hotel provides a blend of historic grandeur and contemporary comfort.
The mansion itself dates back to 1815 and has served various roles, including a convalescent home for World War I officers, a convent, and a school before opening as a hotel in 1993. This rich history is evident in the building's gothic architecture, the on-site chapel, and the sweeping sense of arrival.
Accommodations and Grounds
Ashdown Park features 106 bedrooms and suites, each named after a tree species found on the property, reinforcing the connection to the surrounding landscape. The rooms are situated within the historic mansion, offering views of the gardens, woodland, and grazing land where wild deer roam. Dog-friendly rooms are available, making it a suitable choice for guests traveling with pets, given the proximity to woodland trails and Ashdown Forest.
IMAGE6 The hotel's extensive grounds include a lake with fountains, woodland trails leading to the fictional homes of Pooh Bear and friends, secret gardens, a walled garden, and mature trees, including the tallest Wellingtonia tree in Sussex.
Dining and Activities
The hotel offers two distinct dining experiences. The Anderida Restaurant, an AA Rosette-awarded establishment, provides formal dining with seasonal à la carte and tasting menus, including vegetarian and vegan options. For a more relaxed atmosphere, the Forest Brasserie overlooks the 18-hole par-three golf course and gardens, serving dishes inspired by local produce.
Afternoon tea is a notable highlight, served in the lounges, on the terrace, or as a picnic. A special Winnie-the-Pooh themed afternoon tea, the Hunny Pot Afternoon Tea, features honey-laced cakes and sandwiches, running until November 30. This theme will be further celebrated in 2026, marking 100 years of Winnie-the-Pooh with year-long programming.
The refurbished Country Club includes a fitness studio, an updated indoor pool, and treatment rooms. Outdoor activities include tennis, a putting green, jogging and cycling routes, and extensive walking opportunities within the hotel's grounds and the adjacent Ashdown Forest.
Nearby Attractions and Packages
Ashdown Forest is a primary draw, offering direct access to woodland and forest trails for walkers and families embracing the Hundred Acre Wood connection. The hotel also provides a "Storybook Stay" package, which includes a visit to Pooh Corner and guided walks in the Hundred Acre Wood.
Seasonal events, such as garden trails, cocktail masterclasses, and themed suppers, are also hosted throughout the year. Overnight stays at Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club start from £199 per room for two people, including breakfast options.
IMAGE1 IMAGE3 IMAGE5 IMAGE4