Ansty And Staplefield
Ansty And Staplefield
Top 20 Lakes around Ansty And Staplefield
Best lakes around Ansty And Staplefield offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities in the surrounding region. While the immediate parish features water bodies primarily on private land, nearby areas provide publicly accessible lakes. The region is characterized by its natural beauty, with efforts to protect its natural treasures amidst development. These lakes serve as significant wildlife havens and popular spots for outdoor activities.
Best lakes around Ansty And Staplefield
- The most popular lakes is Ardingly Reservoir, a lake that is a wildlife haven and a hub for watersports activities. It is also designated as a Local Nature Reserve with two bird hides.
- Another must-see spot is Dew Pond with Lone Tree, a dew pond. These ponds were historically dug to collect rainwater for animals. They are often located on hills, providing scenic views.
- Visitors also love Tilgate Lake, the biggest of three lakes in Tilgate Park. It is a popular watersports center offering a range of outdoor activities.
- Ansty And Staplefield is known for reservoirs, natural lakes, and historic estate ponds. The area features a variety of lakes to see and explore, suitable for different outdoor interests.
- The lakes around Ansty And Staplefield are appreciated by the komoot community. The community has contributed over 290 upvotes and 50 photos, showcasing the appeal of these locations.
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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Ifield Mill
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Dew Pond with Lone Tree
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Tips from the Community
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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Using the power of moving water to drive a mill wheel is an ancient invention of the human spirit of discovery, the origins of which can be traced back to times long past. Thanks to such a construction, human or animal muscle power could be easily replaced by the power of the natural elements through a watercourse - natural or artificially created - in order to grind grain into corn or press oil from fruit, for example. There are essentially two different ways of driving watermills: * Either the flowing water simply hits the blades of the water wheel from below to set it in motion; or * the water is guided above the wheel - usually through a so-called "mill channel" - and falls onto the blades; this type of construction is more efficient due to natural gravity.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular lakes to visit near Ansty and Staplefield?
The region offers several popular lakes. Ardingly Reservoir is a significant wildlife haven and a hub for watersports. Tilgate Lake in Tilgate Park is known for watersports and its historical significance. The picturesque Sheffield Park and Garden Lakes are renowned for their stunning scenery and historic design.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Ansty and Staplefield?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Ardingly Reservoir, Tilgate Lake, and Sheffield Park and Garden Lakes are all listed as family-friendly. Tilgate Park, in particular, offers a wide range of activities for all ages.
What kind of wildlife can I see at the lakes?
Many lakes in the area are significant wildlife havens. Ardingly Reservoir is designated as a Local Nature Reserve, where Ospreys have been sighted, and it features two bird hides for observation. The ancient woodlands around Nymans' Lakes also offer opportunities for nature spotting.
Are there opportunities for watersports on the lakes?
Absolutely. Ardingly Reservoir is a hub for watersports activities. Tilgate Lake is a popular watersports center where you can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Can I go fishing at any of the lakes?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity in the region. More House Farm Fishery near Wivelsfield features three lakes, including Kingfisher Lake, known for specimen carp fishing. Balcombe Lake is another popular estate lake for angling, and Deaks Lane Ponds are recognized for match and pleasure angling.
Are there walking trails around the lakes?
Many lakes offer excellent walking opportunities. The walk around Ardingly Reservoir is popular, and Sheffield Park and Garden Lakes provide tranquil walks through meticulously designed landscapes. Nymans' Lakes also offer sociable walks with rangers through ancient woodlands.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
Beyond lake-specific activities, the surrounding area offers various outdoor pursuits. You can explore MTB trails, enjoy gravel biking routes, or go cycling on routes like the Brighton Street Art Murals loop or the Ardingly Village loop.
Are there any historic lakes or water features in the area?
Yes, the region has a rich history reflected in its water features. Tilgate Lake's area has human presence dating back to the Mesolithic period and was once a royal deer park. Sheffield Park and Garden Lakes are part of a historic garden designed over centuries. Additionally, Ifield Mill features a 19th-century watermill with a large lake, showcasing ancient engineering.
Are there dog-friendly lake walks?
Many areas around the lakes are dog-friendly. The walk around Ardingly Reservoir is popular with dog walkers. Dew Pond with Lone Tree is also noted as a place where dogs love to dip into the water.
When is the best time to visit the lakes?
The lakes offer beauty throughout the year. Summer is ideal for watersports and picking berries around Ardingly Reservoir. For horticultural beauty, Sheffield Park and Garden Lakes are particularly stunning from spring to early summer with daffodils, rhododendrons, and azaleas in bloom.
What is a 'Dew Pond' and where can I find one?
A dew pond is a historically significant water feature, often found on hills, designed to collect rainwater for animals before modern water channeling. They are sometimes called mist or cloud ponds and often offer beautiful views. You can visit the picturesque Dew Pond with Lone Tree in the area.
Are there places to eat or drink near the lakes?
While specific establishments vary by lake, popular areas like Tilgate Park and the vicinity of Ardingly Reservoir often have cafes or pubs nearby. It's advisable to check local listings for options closest to your chosen lake.
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