The key landscape characteristics are winding valleys and streams which converge in the Combe Haven basin. There are numerous ancient woodlands, ghylls and small irregularly shaped fields. One distinctive feature is the strong visual connectivity between the village and the landscape, offering uncluttered long and shorter distance views from the built-up area. Farmland also surrounds much of the village.
Outdoor Spaces
Local Green Spaces
The Neighbourhood Plan designated four Local Green Spaces:
- The Recreation Ground
- St George’s Church Churchyard
- Quarry Wood – https://talesfromquarrywood.wordpress.com/tags-events/the-story-of-crowhurst-nature-reserve/
- RSPB Forewood Nature Reserve – https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/fore-wood/
Sites of Special Scientific Interest
- Forewood SSSI
- Combe Haven SSSI
- Marline Wood SSSI
Public Rights of Way
There are many wonderful Public Rights of Way (https://row.eastsussex.gov.uk/standardmap.aspx) in the Parish, including the 1066 Countryside Walk – Bexhill Link. In 2021 “10 Village Walks – Crowhurst and its footpaths” was re-printed with profits supporting the Youth Club.
Combe Valley Countryside Park
The Combe Valley Countryside Park is to the south of the village and includes part of the Recreation Ground. http://combevalleycountrysidepark.com. A Parish Councillor sits on the Board of Directors for the Community Interest Company that runs the Park.
High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
The northern part of Crowhurst Parish is part of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Much of the design guide for the Crowhurst Neighbourhood Plan was based on the High Weald Design Guide. https://www.highweald.org/