Near Eastbourne on the fringes of the South Downs National Park, there’s a gorgeous forest waiting to be discovered.

Friston Forest is a vast woodland full of beautiful beech trees with fantastic views of Cuckmere Valley, and it’s the perfect place for an outdoor adventure.

Fun at Friston

There are so many ways to explore Friston Forest. You won't want to miss the two walking trails here, Butchers Trudge and White Horse View.

Butchers Trudge will take you on a mile-long loop around the beech forest, so it’s ideal if you're looking for a short and easy stroll where you can take in the beautiful surroundings.

White Horse View, meanwhile, is a wee bit longer but well worth it for the view at the end - a massive horse that's been carved into the hillside.

While you’re here, why not also try your hand at orienteering? Download the challenge on your phone, and with your map in hand, see if you can follow the clues and complete the challenges.

You’ll feel like a proper explorer trawling through the woods in search of treasure!

After all that excitement, we'd definitely recommend grilling up a meal at one of Friston Forest’s own barbeque spots. These are free to use and are sure to be a delicious way to close off your day.

Brilliant biking and relaxing riding

If the sort of horses you’re interested in are less giant and more real, Friston Forest is also a great place to go riding. There are plenty of trails to choose from, and many of them connect to the rest of the South Downs.

This is one of the best places in the area to go cycling as well.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or you just want a more relaxing bike ride, the Family Cycle trail is for you, while thrill-seekers should try their hand at the Jeremy Cole mountain biking trail.

You’ll feel unstoppable as the fresh air rushes across your face while you zoom past trees and glide alongside the river.

Friston Forest really is a fantastic place to go for a day out. There are so many different ways to see this place, and no matter which you choose, we promise the views along the way will be to die for.

Get your outdoor kit on and check it out for yourself!