Just over an hour out of London it’s possible to visit a number of locations that are featured in the Winnie the Pooh books, written by A.A.Milne. Many of the locations in the books, were based on real places near to where the real Christopher Robin lived as a child. What’s surprising is how these places remain a great day out for both kids and adults, without too many tourists. Well at least most of the time.
For Winnie the Pooh fans, adults who want to relive childhood memories or just those that enjoy a day in the outdoors, a Pooh sticks day trip is a must. In fact, you don’t have to travel to Ashdown Forest in the UK for this. Just find a bridge, with water and a stick and play the game with a friend. This post has some other Uk bridge suggestions.
History
The original bridge on the site of the Pooh Sticks Bridge was built in 1907, rebuilt in the late seventies and subsequently replaced in 1979. The original style remains but the number of visitors over the years has required some improvements and a substantial donation from Disney and the members of the public.
How to find Pooh Sticks Bridge
It’s best to drive and park up at one of the many spots around Ashdown Forest or alternatively head for Pooh Corner in Hartfield. However, if you don’t have a car, you can visit on the train from London Victoria or London Bridge, to either East Grinstead or Tunbridge Wells and then get a taxi or take the bus to Hartfield Village.
Sites to visit
Aside from Pooh Sticks Bridge, depending on your chosen walk, you may visit a number of spots which provided inspiration for the books. Gills Lap (Galleons Lap in the books), the Heffalump Trap, 100 Aker Wood and even Eeyore’s Gloomy Place.
There are many routes to take from the various different car parks. We walked from Gills Lap down to Pooh Sticks Bridge and then on to Hartfield and the Pooh Corner shop which was around 8km in total, but there are shorter options.
I recommend you take a picnic and a friend or two and enjoy the area on a Pooh sticks day trip, whatever the time of year.
Looking for other recommendations for day trips in the UK – check out my other posts here.
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