Hartfield

The Winnie the Pooh stories were written in the 1920's by A.A. Milne to entertain his son Christopher Robin Milne.

"The Enchanted Places" are settings for the Winnie the Pooh stories where young Christopher Robin's adventures actually took place.

They are situated higher up on the Ashdown Forest and remain very much as they were in those distant days. There is "Roo's Sandy Pit" which is actually an old quarry and "Galleon's Leap" real name Gills' Lap right on top of the Forest. Across the other side of the B2026 road that runs between Maresfield and Hartfield, is the place where the "North Pole" was found, "Pooh discovered it!" The Pole itself is no longer there but if you go on an 'expotition' to find it, you will discover a pretty little pond next door to where it was.

The little wooden bridge from which the game of Pooh-sticks was played, is along a country path which in places is rather rough and steep. The lanes nearby are unsuitable for parking. There is space for 15 cars, but no coaches, at the small Pooh car park.

It is quite a long walk for small children, at least 20 minutes from the centre of Hartfield - each way. Use of the other main Forest car parks is recommended as these give access to all the sites. In winter, wellington boots are advisable.

Take only photographs - leave only footprints!