Sussex is blessed with an extraordinary variety of landscapes, from chalk downs and ancient woodlands to wetlands and reedbeds. The Wildlife Trust manages a network of reserves that protect these habitats and offer wonderful opportunities for visitors to experience wildlife up close. Here’s your guide to some of the best reserves in East and West Sussex.
From 25th December to 5th January each year you can take part in the Wildlife Trust '12 Days Wild' festive nature challenge. In those quiet days between Christmas and New Year, spotting wildlife in Sussex is the perfect excuse to get outdoors! Sign up for a free activity pack and get exploring this Winter.
East Sussex
Seaford Head
Famous for its views of the Seven Sisters cliffs, this reserve combines chalk grassland and coastal habitats. Look out for rare butterflies, wildflowers and seabirds. Parking: Free parking at Seaford Head car park (near South Hill Barn). Nearest town: Seaford. Nearest station: Seaford railway station (approx. 1.5 miles).
Filsham Reedbed
Near Hastings, this is one of Sussex’s largest reedbeds. It’s a haven for reed warblers, water rails and dragonflies, with boardwalks for easy access. Parking: Limited parking on roadside near reserve entrance. Nearest town: Hastings. Nearest station: Hastings or West St Leonards.
Southerham Farm
Just outside Lewes, Southerham Farm offers flower-rich chalk grassland and sweeping views of the South Downs. Skylarks and butterflies are common here in summer. Parking: Small lay-by on Southerham Lane. Nearest town: Lewes. Nearest station: Lewes railway station (approx. 2 miles).
Malling Down
Another chalk grassland gem near Lewes, Malling Down is home to orchids, glow-worms and a variety of butterflies. Parking: Limited roadside parking on Mill Road. Nearest town: Lewes. Nearest station: Lewes railway station (approx. 1 mile).
Selwyns Wood
Close to Heathfield, this tranquil woodland reserve is perfect for spotting woodland birds and spring wildflowers. Parking: Small car park at reserve entrance. Nearest town: Heathfield. Nearest station: Buxted (approx. 6 miles).
West Sussex
Waltham Brooks
Set in the Arun Valley, this wetland reserve attracts wintering wildfowl and waders. In summer, orchids and dragonflies add colour to the landscape. Parking: Small car park off Greatham Lane. Nearest town: Pulborough. Nearest station: Pulborough railway station (approx. 3 miles).
Amberley Wild Brooks
A vast floodplain that supports lapwings, snipe and teal. Seasonal flooding creates a dynamic habitat for wildlife and a picturesque setting for walks. Parking: Limited parking near Amberley village. Nearest town: Amberley. Nearest station: Amberley railway station (approx. 1 mile).
Ebernoe Common
An ancient woodland near Petworth, renowned for its veteran trees and rare fungi. It’s also a hotspot for bats. Parking: Small car park at reserve entrance. Nearest town: Petworth. Nearest station: Pulborough (approx. 6 miles).
The Mens
A large expanse of ancient woodland near Billingshurst, rich in birdlife including woodpeckers and nightingales. Parking: Limited roadside parking near entrance. Nearest town: Billingshurst. Nearest station: Billingshurst railway station (approx. 4 miles).
Levin Down
A small but beautiful chalk grassland reserve near Singleton, dotted with wildflowers and offering views across the Downs. Parking: Lay-by on Charlton Road. Nearest town: Singleton. Nearest station: Chichester (approx. 7 miles).
