The Lost Woods

Explore ancient woodlands, discover cultural and wildlife treasures and learn how we can restore and protect our woods for future generations. Join us for inspiring events that reconnect people and nature, bringing the Lost Woods back to life. With special events for hearing impaired community and people with learning disabilities.

Visit lostwoods.org.uk to find out more about the project, and click here to find out more about the events.

The Lost Woods project is reconnecting people with the ancient woodlands of the Sussex Low Weald and Downs landscapes that have shaped our history for centuries. 

These ancient woodlands, rich in wildlife and cultural heritage, are under threat: fragmented, forgotten and in need of care. Many of us have lost touch with these special places, unaware of how vital they are or what we can do to help protect them.

Come and help us to bring the Lost Woods back to life, creating a thriving network of woodlands and be part of the community that cherish them.

Events

Sensory Nature Wander for those with hearing impairments

Mon 4 May, 10am–12pm, £5

As part of this year’s Brighton Festival, the Lost Woods team warmly invites members of the hearing‑impaired community to experience the sights, smells, and sensations of one of Sussex’s beautiful ancient woodlands alongside a sign language interpreter.

Click here to book your place on the Sensory Nature Wander for those with hearing impairments

Please note: These walks are designed for and welcome people with hearing-impairments and their friends, families and or carers. Booking essential as spaces are limited, we cannot accept walk-ups. Please leave dogs at home to help us focus on connecting with nature. Butchers Woods which is owned by the Woodland Trust has uneven terrain, kissing gates and is prone to seasonal water-logging. Therefore the route is unsuitable for wheelchairs, or buggies.Nearest toilet facilities at Hassocks train station).

Sensory Nature Wander for those with Learning Disabilities

Mon 4 May, 1–3pm, £5

This gentle, two‑hour sensory wander offer a chance to slow down, notice nature, and enjoy the woodland in a supported, accessible way. Come and explore nature using all your senses, feeling textures, observing wildlife, noticing colours and movement, and enjoying the calming atmosphere and beauty of our ancient woodland, near Hassocks.

Click here to book your place on the Sensory Nature Wander for those with Learning Disabilities

Please note: These walks are designed for and welcome people with learning disabilities and their friends, families and or carers. Booking essential as spaces are limited, we cannot accept walk-ups. Please leave dogs at home to help us focus on connecting with nature. Butchers Woods which is owned by the Woodland Trust has uneven terrain, kissing gates and is prone to seasonal water-logging. Therefore the route is unsuitable for wheelchairs, or buggies. Nearest toilet facilities at Hassocks train station.

Art from the Ashes

Wed 6 May, Session 1: 10am–12pm, Session 2: 1.30–3.30pm, Free

Join the Lost Woods of the Low Weald and Downs project for a unique, hands‑on experience learning how to make artists’ charcoal in a beautiful private woodland near Hassocks. Set within ancient woodland, this practical workshop will guide you through a simple, small‑scale charcoal‑making technique that transforms locally sourced wood into a sustainable, expressive art material.

Whether you are an artist, a woodland enthusiast, or simply curious about traditional craft skills, this session offers a rare opportunity to explore the connection between woodland management and the materials we use for creative expression. Come ready to get stuck in, learn something new, and enjoy a rewarding experience deep in the woods.

Click here to book your place on Arts from the Ashes Session 1

Click here to book your place on Arts from the Ashes Session 2