Top 14 Lakes around East Grinstead
Best lakes around East Grinstead are found in the wider local area, including within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This region features several notable bodies of water, ranging from large reservoirs to smaller, historic lakes. These locations offer diverse opportunities for outdoor activities and nature observation.
Best lakes around East Grinstead
- The most popular lakes is Ardingly Reservoir, a lake that serves as a vital drinking water reservoir and a 74.5-hectare Local Nature Reserve. It is known for watersports activities and a 7-kilometer Kingfisher walking trail.
- Another must-see spot is Tilgate Lake, a viewpoint and the largest of three lakes in Tilgate Park. It is a popular watersports center offering activities like canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
- Visitors also love Hever Castle Gardens and Lake, a historical site with an ornamental lake fed by the River Eden. Visitors can enjoy lakeside walks and hire rowing boats or pedalos on the lake.
- East Grinstead is known for reservoirs, ornamental lakes, and fishing lakes. The area offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, catering to different interests.
- The lakes around East Grinstead are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 290 upvotes and 50 photos shared.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Ardingly Reservoir
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Ardingly Reservoir Activity Centre
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Tilgate Lake
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Human history here goes back to the Mesolithic period when flint tools were made here. More recently, the area was a royal deer park in the 1600s and then Tilgate Manor Estate from 1647. More recently, BT owned it and the lake was sold for private fishing. Crawley Urban District Council purchased the area in the 1960s, and it's now open to the public.
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Weir Wood Reservoir Local Nature Reserve
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Horsted Keynes Fishponds
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Tips from the Community
From here, whichever route you choose it will involve a climb. Pick wisely
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There is a local car park at the Activity Centre leading straight onto the walk around the reservoir. Currently the foot path is very wet and muddy in places but would be a nice walk spring/summer/ autumn. There are a few benches around the reservoir for stopping and taking in the view.
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The perimeter path around the reservoir is very muddy in places currently due to the amount of rain. Welly boots needed in some places.
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Tilgate Lake is the largest of the three lakes in Tilgate Park and remains a popular watersports centre and tourist attraction in Crawley, West Sussex. Tilgate Lake offers the public a wide range of outdoor activities including archery, canoeing, fishing, kayaking, mountain biking, raft building, rowing, running, sailing, standup paddleboarding, open water swimming, team building,
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Tilgate Lake is the biggest of the three lakes in Tilgate Park. It's a popular watersports lake with lots of other activities happening on and around it. Human history here goes back to the Mesolithic period when flint tools were made here. More recently, the area was a royal deer park in the 1600s and then Tilgate Manor Estate from 1647. More recently, BT owned it and the lake was sold for private fishing. Crawley Urban District Council purchased the area in the 1960s, and it's now open to the public.
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This is the location of the only (single) public toilet on this route, and there’s also a kiosk for hot and cold drinks and ice creams. Long queues for both.
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Apart from a café bar where you can stop for a break, this center offers a variety of activities at Ardingly Reservoir, including junior and adult sailing, paddleboard rentals, and the opportunity to try windsurfing, among others.
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The tranquil Ardingly reservoir can be found 3 miles north of Haywards Heath. It is home to a number of bird species which can be identified with panels situated within bird hides around the reservoir. Walk the Kingfisher Nature Trail around the eastern shores and for the more adventurous, the Ardingly Activity Centre provides sailing, canoeing and windsurfing opportunities. Unfortunately most if not all access to the waterside is restricted to anglers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What lakes near East Grinstead are best for watersports?
For watersports, Ardingly Reservoir is a popular choice, offering windsurfing, kayaking, powerboating, paddleboarding, and dinghy sailing. Tilgate Lake also serves as a watersports center with activities like canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Which lakes offer good opportunities for fishing?
Several lakes near East Grinstead are excellent for fishing. Ardingly Reservoir allows freshwater fishing for carp, tench, pike, and bream. Weir Wood Reservoir is known as an excellent coarse fishery with large carp and pike. Hedgecourt Lake is also a notable destination for anglers, stocked with bream, roach, tench, pike, perch, and eels, and offers platforms with disabled access. Horsted Keynes Fishponds also provide good angling opportunities.
Are there family-friendly lakes to visit around East Grinstead?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Ardingly Reservoir has picnic areas and a 7-kilometer Kingfisher walking trail. Tilgate Lake, within Tilgate Park, offers various activities and open spaces. Hever Castle Gardens and Lake provides lakeside walks, rowing boats, and pedalos, alongside the historical castle grounds. Horsted Keynes Fishponds are also considered family-friendly.
Where can I go for nature observation and birdwatching?
Ardingly Reservoir is a 74.5-hectare Local Nature Reserve, home to over 60 bird species, with two bird hides available. Weir Wood Reservoir is also a Local Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest, known for its significant bird populations and a dedicated bird hide.
What historical sites are associated with the lakes in this region?
Hever Castle Gardens and Lake is a significant historical site, being the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. The castle grounds feature an ornamental lake and beautiful gardens. Chelwood Vachery also has historic water gardens, with some original features dating back to 1906, including an Edwardian infinity swimming pool and a folly bridge.
Are there walking or hiking trails near the lakes?
Yes, there are many walking and hiking opportunities. Ardingly Reservoir features a 7-kilometer Kingfisher walking trail and public rights of way. You can also enjoy lakeside walks at Hever Castle Gardens and Lake. For more extensive options, explore the hiking routes around East Grinstead, which include trails like the 'Kingscote Wine Estate – Bluebell Railway loop'.
Can I cycle or mountain bike near these lakes?
While specific cycling paths directly around all lakes might vary, the wider East Grinstead area offers excellent cycling opportunities. You can find numerous MTB trails and gravel biking routes, such as the 'Forest Way – Forest Way Cycle Path loop' or the 'Jules Wood loop from East Grinstead - Ashurst Wood'.
Which lakes are good for a less crowded experience?
For a potentially less crowded experience, Chelwood Vachery offers a unique, somewhat overgrown atmosphere within its historic water gardens and arboretum, providing a tranquil walk. Horsted Keynes Fishponds also offer a secluded, hidden valley feel.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around East Grinstead?
The best time depends on your interests. Spring is beautiful for seeing bluebells at Chelwood Vachery. Summer is ideal for watersports at Ardingly Reservoir and boating at Hever Castle Lake. Autumn offers scenic views with changing foliage, and winter can provide peaceful, crisp walks, especially around Ardingly Reservoir.
Are there any lakes with disabled access for visitors?
Hedgecourt Lake offers platforms with disabled access at its eastern end, along with nearby parking, making it more accessible for visitors with mobility needs.
What natural features can I expect to see at these lakes?
The lakes offer diverse natural features. Ardingly Reservoir is within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and features ancient woodland and gill streams. Weir Wood Reservoir is a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its bird populations. Chelwood Vachery boasts a spring-fed gorge with waterfalls and an arboretum with rhododendron walks.
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