Orlestone Forest
A serene nature reserve in Kent, perfect for woodland walks, fungi spotting, and dog adventures with free entry.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant green colors
Orlestone Forest
Best Time
Vibrant green colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene nature reserve in Kent, perfect for woodland walks, fungi spotting, and dog adventures with free entry.
"Wow what an amazing place! So blown away by the amount of fungi and mushroom. "
🚗 Parking & Access
Free parking available, but watch for height restrictions.
🥾 Wear Wellies!
Essential after rain to navigate muddy paths.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.5 · 160 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fungi Wonderland
Discover an incredible array of fungi and mushrooms, especially in autumn. A paradise for foragers and nature enthusiasts.
Woodland Trails
Enjoy easy, quiet woodland walks with varied paths, from wide trails to smaller, intriguing routes. Perfect for families and pets.
Nature's Blanket
Experience the soft, green moss covering the forest floor, creating a beautiful, tranquil atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessibility Challenges
Embrace the Wild
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Access
Free parking available, but watch for height restrictions.
🥾 Wear Wellies!
Essential after rain to navigate muddy paths.
🍄 Foraging Fun
Great spot for mushroom hunting and observing fungi.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Walks
A popular and enjoyable place for dog walking.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Access
Free parking available, but watch for height restrictions.
🥾 Wear Wellies!
Essential after rain to navigate muddy paths.
🍄 Foraging Fun
Great spot for mushroom hunting and observing fungi.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Walks
A popular and enjoyable place for dog walking.
🦋 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for butterflies and other local wildlife.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Orlestone Forest is praised as a beautiful, quiet woodland walk, perfect for dog owners and nature lovers, especially for its abundant fungi. While entry is free and parking is available, some visitors note accessibility issues due to a height restriction barrier and potential fallen trees on paths.
"Height restriction car park... shame. The forest path are good. Wellies needed in the heavy rain. Beautiful spring green colours on May day."
sara clark
"Wow what an amazing place! Found this place by chance whilst visiting the area. So blown away. The amount of fungi and mushroom was amazing and so fun to go hunting for. The more you look, the more you come across. Great for mushroom lovers. Great for any foragers or nature lovers. Just a beautiful scene from every angle. The moss was like a soft green blanket covering everywhere. Great for dog walking. Free parking area."
Plantbased Munchies
"Lovely quiet easy woodland walk."
Denise Melton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Orlestone Forest is located in Hamstreet, Ashford, TN26 2EL. While there's free parking, be aware of a height restriction barrier that might prevent larger vehicles from accessing the main car park.
Yes, there is a free parking area available for visitors.
Unfortunately, a height restriction barrier at the entrance may prevent larger vehicles, such as Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs), from reaching the car park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Orlestone Forest is free. You can make a donation at the entrance if you wish.
As a nature reserve, Orlestone Forest is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific opening times are not usually posted, but it's best to visit during safe daylight periods.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The forest offers various routes, including larger, wider paths and smaller, more intimate trails leading off them. You can choose to stick to the main paths or explore the woods.
Yes, it's a very popular spot for dog walking, with plenty of space and varied terrain.
Some wider paths are suitable, but accessibility can be challenging due to potential fallen trees and the general nature of a forest reserve. A height restriction barrier also impacts vehicle access.
Visitors often spot a variety of fungi and mushrooms, especially in autumn. Butterflies are also common, and the mossy ground creates a unique habitat.
Yes, there are picnic benches available, making it a great spot for a sunny picnic.
📸 📸 Photography
The forest offers beautiful scenes from every angle, with lush moss, diverse fungi, and sun-dappled woodland paths. It's particularly photogenic in spring with vibrant green colors and in autumn for fungi.
One visitor shared a drone video of Orlestone Forest, suggesting it can be a scenic location for aerial shots. Always check local drone regulations before flying.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit