The Clumps Challenge is ON!
Although Ashdown Forest might be most famous for its precious and rare heathland, just as noticeable when you visit for a walk are its lumps and bumps. On many of the highest areas of the Forest are small copses of Scots Pine trees known as “Clumps”.
There are 12 primary Clumps in total, each with an interesting story to tell. Some of the Clumps date back to 1825 when they were first planted by Countess De La Warr; the most recent was planted in 2000 to mark the Millennium and can be seen just a short walk from the Forest Centre in Wych Cross.
Visiting all 12 of the Forest’s historic Clumps on foot in one day has always been considered somewhat of a challenge – and not one to be undertaken lightly! It is
therefore with a mix of trepidation and excitement that a team of walkers will come together to take on the challenge on Saturday 27th September.
The team, representing the Conservators of Ashdown Forest and The Ashdown Forest Foundation, will set off from Friends car park at 8am and – some 32km and 12 Clumps later – will finish back at the same spot by 6pm.
The team will stop off for a well-earned lunch break at the Forest Centre in Wych Cross, where a much shorter “Mini Clumps Challenge” will take place throughout the day. This self-guided walk around a set trail is just 3km, with the opportunity to learn about the history of the 12 clumps and the wildlife on Ashdown Forest along the way – perfect for those with little legs or anyone with a preference for more of an amble than a hike.
Both challenges will raise funds for The Ashdown Forest Foundation in support of developing the next generation of aspiring young nature lovers and conservationists.
The challenges are in part inspired by former CEO James Adler, who successfully undertook the Clumps Challenge with his partner Jenny in 2023. James was also a passionate advocate for supporting young people to come to know and love Ashdown Forest and the wider world of nature and conservation in general.
There are limited spaces available for anyone to take part on the 32km walk for just £30 (places must be booked in advance using the link below). Join members of the Ashdown Forest team who will share their knowledge of the Forest along the way.
Once your registration has been processed, we will send you further information about sponsorship and what to expect on the day.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Clumps Challenge 2025 – thank you for your support!
If you have any questions, please contact us.
The Mini Clumps Challenge
For those wanting to enjoy a shorter walk, sign up instead for our fun, self-guided Mini Clumps Challenge starting at the Forest Centre in Wych Cross. Collect stamps on a certificate as you visit all 12 “mini Clumps” and get a photo at the end to celebrate your achievement! Choose to start your walk anytime between 11am and 3pm and follow a 3km marked trail, which will visit 12 “mini Clumps”.
Registration for the Mini Clumps Challenge is £5 per adult (children are free). You can register in advance or when you arrive on the day. The trail
will be open between 11am and 4pm, starting from the Forest Centre (Coleman’s Hatch Road, Wych Cross, RH18 5JP).
Parking is free all day for all participants of the two challenges.
Donate to support our walkers
If you would like to help raise funds and cheer all the walkers on their way, you can make a donation or start your own fundraising page using the button below.
