Buchan Country Park
Buchan Country Park is set in 170 acres of beautiful countryside right on Crawley's doorstep and has won the Green Flag Award, which recognises the best green spaces in the UK, every year since 2010.
The park is an excellent place for walking, watching wildlife or enjoying a picnic. We also have a number of sculptures dotted around the park which families can have fun hunting for.
Visitor information
Photo gallery
Photography and filming
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Buchan Country Park is a popular place to take photos and videos. People come here to capture its beautiful scenery, wildlife and sculptures.
You are welcome to take photos and videos for your own use.
Personal photography
You can take photos or videos for personal, non-commercial use, such as:
- family photos
- social media posts for personal use (not for business use)
- nature and landscape photography
When taking photos or videos, make sure you:
- keep paths clear and avoid disturbing other visitors
- avoid disturbing wildlife or damaging the environment
- follow the Countryside Code
Commercial photography and filming
You must get permission from the council before taking photos or filming for business purposes in the park.
This includes:
- paid photoshoots, such as family, wedding, branding or portrait photography
- photography courses, workshops or group sessions
- filming or creating content for marketing, advertising or promotion
- any activity where money changes hands or services are offered
Our byelaws do not allow people to sell services in the park without permission.
Apply for permission
You must apply for a permit if you want to carry out commercial photography or filming.
As part of your application, we may ask for:
- details of your shoot, including the date, time, location and number of people involved
- a risk assessment
- proof of public liability insurance, usually with at least £5 million cover
We recommend applying at least 10 working days before your planned shoot.
We may refuse an application or change its conditions to:
- protect wildlife and habitats
- reduce disruption to other visitors
- manage events or busy times in the park
To apply for permission or find out more, contact: countryside@westsussex.gov.uk.
Fees
We charge a fee for commercial photography and filming. This covers administration costs and the use of the park.
Fees may include:
- small commercial photoshoots (1 to 2 people): £75 to £100
- group sessions or workshops: £100 to £250
- annual photography licence for regular use: £150
Fees may vary depending on the size and type of activity.
The money we receive helps us maintain and protect Buchan Country Park for everyone to enjoy.
Conditions of use
Anyone carrying out approved photography or filming must:
- keep public access open at all times
- avoid disrupting other visitors
- protect wildlife and sensitive areas
- use equipment safely and responsibly (restrictions may apply)
- follow instructions from park staff
Additional conditions may apply depending on the activity.
Important information
If you carry out commercial photography or filming without permission, park staff may ask you to stop. You may also be breaking West Sussex County Council byelaws.
Buchan Country Park has a Green Flag Award. This award recognises high-quality parks and visitor experience.
By following these rules, you help keep the park safe and enjoyable for visitors and wildlife.
Countryside Code
When visiting the countryside and using Public Rights of Way, be respectful of the needs of others and always follow the Countryside Code.