The tales of Winnie-the-Pooh written by A.A. Milne were inspired by Ashdown Forest in East Sussex. New York Times named ‘Winnie-the-Pooh’s England‘ as one of the best places to visit in 2026. He based the story in the fictional Hundred Acre Wood which is inspired on the real-life Ashdown Forest just minutes away. If you fancy, taking a gander around Ashdown Forest on your own – it’s free entry into the woodland. A.A. Milne lived at Cotchford Farm in Hartfield which is now a holiday cottage – so you can actually stay in it yourself.

Source: The Times January 09, 2026 19:41 UTC