Leechpool and Owlbeech Woods

About

Leechpool and Owlbeech woods is a 53-acre site in Horsham that's home to a rich mix of ancient woodland and restored heathland. The woods were named as one of the best travel discoveries of 2O17 by Guardian writers; having been listed alongside sites such as Shell Beach in Western Australia and Lake Gaube in the French Pyrenees. Leechpool woods was once part of St. Leonard's Forest, a former hunting ground in medieval times. As you weave between the ancient Ash, Hazel, Hawthorn, Holly and Blackthorn trees it helps to evoke feelings of oneself traveling through time. Owlbeech boasts of 55 acres of heathland which has been restored to its former glory after the Great Storm of 1987 that caused wide-spread destruction of the forest. The area also supports a rare selection of flora and fauna such as Nightjars and Emerald Dragonflies. Both sites are open all year round and are free to enter. Free parking is available in the main car park off Harwood Road and at Southolmes Play Area.

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes