Best lakes around East Horsley are situated within and around this Surrey village, offering natural beauty and historical interest. The area is characterized by its position within the Surrey Hills, featuring diverse landscapes from tranquil ponds to historically significant mill ponds. These water bodies contribute to the scenic beauty and provide opportunities for exploration along local walking routes and trails.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
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To a passerby, a mill pond like the one presented here might seem ordinary, but there is another point of view: For example, in the story world of Otfried Preußler (1923 to 2013), who became famous with the imaginative children's books he wrote, things look quite different: Here, such a mill pond is also the extremely exciting habitat of a water sprite family. His still popular book "Der kleine Wassermann" tells wonderful stories of the adventures experienced by the family's offspring. On an audio book CD, the water sprite mother sings her son to sleep for the winter: "Little water sprite, close your eyes and get some rest, I'll sit here for a while and watch you sleep. May your dreams guide you and touch you wonderfully, and when you wake up again, a new year will begin for you."
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The tow path in the Basingstoke canal, from Woking to the junction with the Wey, it is paved and smooth. The tow path in the Wey Navigation canal is more bumpy, roots etc. Apt for a gravel bike, perhaps not so for a road bike.
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The lakes are just as beautiful as the pleasant wooden path through the marshland. It's very quiet here, although you can hear the noise of the nearby highway. Nevertheless, you can find and enjoy the silence here - we were thrilled by this little paradise!
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Indian cafe/shop very much present & seems worth trying. If you're into gin, there's also a distillery with bar (booking might be needed).
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...many feel an eerie stillness looking out over the still water surrounded by the evergreen box trees. Legend has it that this is due to the fate of a woodcutter's daughter who was surprised by a nobleman on a horse as she bathed in the pool. Having failed to lure her to the bank, he rode his horse into the water and caused the girl to move out to deeper water where she drowned. When the woodcutter returned and found her body, he also found the nobleman's hat floating on the water. It bore the crest of none other than Prince John! Source: https://www.visitsurrey.com/listing/silent-pool/66361101/
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Pretty pond with loads of white ducks who came to say hello through the fence. Pond is private and in accessible
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Among the popular choices are Friday Street Mill Pond, known for its blend of natural beauty and industrial history, and Silent Pool, a spring-fed lake with tranquil waters and a nearby distillery. Black Pond is also a favored spot, offering a calm oasis with historical ties to Claremont Gardens.
Yes, several lakes boast historical importance. Friday Street Mill Pond historically powered a hammer mill until the 18th century. Coxes Lock and Mill Pond on the Wey Navigation has a mill dating back to the 18th century and showcases one of the UK's earliest river navigations. Black Pond was originally dug to supply water to the nearby Claremont Gardens.
The lakes offer diverse natural beauty. At Silent Pool, you'll find tranquil, kaleidoscopic waters surrounded by evergreen box trees. Pennymead Lake contributes to scenic walking routes, while Black Pond is a calm oasis. Coxes Lock and Mill Pond is a haven for birdwatchers, with sightings of herons, kingfishers, and various waterfowl.
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Friday Street Mill Pond and Silent Pool are both categorized as family-friendly. Coxes Lock and Mill Pond also offers an engaging experience for families with its historical lock and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Yes, many areas around the lakes are welcoming to dogs. Black Pond is particularly popular with dog walkers, offering a peaceful setting for you and your canine companion.
The area around East Horsley's lakes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on easy trails, cycling, and gravel biking. For detailed routes, explore the guides for Easy hikes around East Horsley, Cycling around East Horsley, and Gravel biking around East Horsley.
Yes, there are numerous hiking routes. For example, you can find easy hikes like the 'Yew Tree Walk – Raven Arch (Lovelace Bridge) loop from West Horsley' or the 'Sheepleas Information Board – Coronation Meadow loop from East Horsley'. More options are available in the Easy hikes around East Horsley guide.
Absolutely. The region offers diverse terrain for cycling and gravel biking. Routes like the 'Diana Fountain, Bushy Park – Coxes Mill Pond loop from Horsley' are available for gravel biking, and various cycling routes can be found in the guides for Cycling around East Horsley and Gravel biking around East Horsley.
Yes, you'll find amenities near some lakes. Near Silent Pool, there's an Indian restaurant and cookery school, a gin distillery with a bar, and a cheese shop. The Stephen Langton pub is located near Friday Street Mill Pond, though it's currently closed and for sale.
Visitors appreciate the tranquil beauty and historical charm of the lakes. Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, the opportunity for scenic walks, and the chance to observe wildlife. The blend of natural landscapes with historical sites like old mills and locks is also a significant draw, as are the local amenities such as the Silent Pool Distillery.
The lakes are beautiful year-round, each season offering a different charm. Spring and summer provide lush greenery and warmer weather for walks and outdoor activities. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, while winter offers a serene, quiet atmosphere, perfect for peaceful strolls. Check local conditions for specific events or opening hours, especially for attractions like the Silent Pool Distillery.
While some lakes, like Friday Street Mill Pond, have signs indicating no bathing, wild swimming is generally not permitted in the privately owned or protected lakes in the immediate vicinity of East Horsley. It's always best to respect local signage and regulations regarding water access.
Parking availability varies by location. For popular spots like Silent Pool, there are designated parking areas, though they can fill up quickly during peak times. For other lakes, parking might be available in nearby village car parks or along public roads where permitted. Always check local signage for restrictions.


Still not found your perfect lake around East Horsley? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.