The Secret Campsite: Where nature leads the way
In the heart of Sussex, tucked away near Lewes, lies a place where nature thrives and people reconnect with the wild. The Secret Campsite isn’t just a place to...
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The People’s Park for Nature (PPN) in the lower Ouse Valley, East Sussex, is a network of interconnected spaces managed by or for local communities to restore nature and foster a deeper connection with it. The Park incorporates a patchwork of spaces, including community and privately owned land, nature reserves, farmland, playing fields, gardens, ponds, and allotments, all committed to our collective values of nature restoration and community engagement. The PPN is a culturally driven, positive and inclusive movement of people focusing on creative engagement, with locations full of art and activities that ensure that visitors gain a deeper connection with nature.
Available for sponsorship
Available for sponsorship
Stories
Saving Lewes' Swifts: A community taking flight
Swifts have graced the skies of Lewes for generations, filling summer evenings with their joyful screeches and breathtaking aerial displays. But these...
Laughton Greenwood: An inspirational working woodland
Laughton Greenwood, nestled in the rolling landscapes of East Sussex, has a story as rich and deep as the ancient trees that once dominated its land. For...
Experiences
Secret Wildlife Festival
Celebratory events or festivals
The Secret Wildlife Festival is a magical weekend of nature, creativity, and adventure taking place at the Secret Campsite every June. Expect hands-on bushcraft sessions, small mammal and moth trapping, guided owl and glow worm walks, and the chance to spot the legendary Purple Emperor butterfly. The Seven Sisters Astronomy Group have led stargazing sessions, while artists and chefs add colour and flavour to the experience. With family-friendly activities, inspiring wildlife encounters, and a warm festival spirit, it's a joyful celebration of all things wild.
Laughton Greenwood Monthly Volunteering Day
Celebratory events or festivals
Monthly Volunteering Day First Sunday of every month 10am-lunchtime Carpenter’s Hut, Laughton Greenwood Join our monthly volunteering day and help maintain the woodland. Our volunteering sessions are open to everyone of all ages, experiences and abilities. Meet at the Carpenters Hut (Keepers Gate entrance).
Peverells Community Garden
Celebratory events or festivals
The garden is currently open for volunteer mornings on Tuesdays and Fridays from 10 am to 12 pm when Dan gives horticultural advice. Miriam convenes a women's day focused on permaculture on Wednesdays from 10 am to 12 pm. There are plans to extend opening hours once the final infrastructure is in place. The team regularly shares updates on their progress via their Facebook page, inviting the wider community to get involved.
Species & habitat
The People’s Park for Nature is a mosaic of wildlife gems set in the biodiverse and historically rich lower Ouse Valley. This landscape of wetlands, rivers, and floodplains teems with life, from darting kingfishers to elusive sea trout. These wetlands also reduce flooding and purify water.
The River Ouse acts as a vital wildlife corridor, linking grasslands, woodlands, and scrub, while nearby coastal habitats provide refuge for migratory birds. Shaped by centuries of traditional practices, this landscape offers endless opportunities for nature restoration, rewilding, and community-driven nature projects that will drive a nature-based economy benefitting local people.
Did you know?
Threats
According to the State of Nature Report 2023, across the UK species studied have declined on average by 19% since 1970. Nearly one in six species are threatened with extinction in Great Britain. The report states that changes in the way we manage our land for farming, and climate change were the biggest causes of wildlife decline on our land, rivers and lakes across the country and this is likely to have had the biggest impact across the lower Ouse Valley, around 70% of which is farmland. Industrial and housing development are also major threats to an area which is already densely populated.
Supporters & Assessors
Why visit a Wildlife Heritage Area?
Trustworthy
Visitors to Wildlife Heritage Areas can take part in outstanding wildlife watching experiences that put wildlife first. Staying in a Wildlife Heritage Area helps local communities invest in animal welfare and wildlife conservation, benefitting community well-being and driving forward sustainable practices.
Designated for excellence
Communities achieve Wildlife Heritage Area designation by playing a central role in protecting wild animals and their habitats. With support from responsible travel organisations and wildlife experts, these communities are committed to help turn the tide on biodiversity loss and the climate crisis, adopt a zero tolerance for wildlife suffering in tourism, and advocate for positive change through a willingness to collaborate.
Supported by Sussex Dolphin Project
Looking for more in-depth information?
Explore more Wildlife Heritage Areas
Each Wildlife Heritage Area is designated by experts who advise dedicated local people passionate about preserving their unique wildlife and natural heritage.
Helpful links
Apply to become a Wildlife Heritage Area
