Friezland Wood, which covers almost 8 hectares, is situated on the Kent and East Sussex border just to the south-west of Tunbridge Wells and features an unusual geology full of high sandstone rocks which provide a home to a variety of ferns, lichens and bryophytes.
Most of the site lies on a steep, north facing slope within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Small but packed with interest, Friezland is something of a rarity in Britain due to the rock formations at its western end. These Ardingly sandstone formations are so unusual that part of the site has Site of Special Scientific Interest.
The path through Friezland wood takes you underneath and into close contact with these seemingly sculpted rocks hanging with ferns which create a dark, damp environment surrounded by yews and sessile oaks.
The path leads on to a cascading stream and beyond this, the upper slopes of the woods feature oak ash, alder and birch trees.
The woods are a tranquil and sheltered place to walk, but this sheltered and damp nature means that the paths through the wood can often become very muddy in winter.
Trains operated by the Spa Valley Railway run from Tunbridge Wells old West Station to Groombridge, stopping at High Rocks on route. Passengers can alight here and walk along High Rocks Lane to enter Friezland Wood. Check the website for train timetables and schedules.
Situated just next to Friezland Wood, The High Rocks are a popular, world renowned location for rock climbing. Daily entry to the rocks for climbers and boulderers currently costs £10, or regular visitors may wish to take advantage of an annual membership fee, currently £45. Further information from The High Rocks
Easy access information
This park and open space contains uneven trails, un-surfaced or narrow pathways. Also, there are width restricting features, such as stiles and narrow gaps making it difficult for visitors with pushchairs and/or wheelchairs to access some parts of the site.
