Top 8 Lakes around Crockenhill
Lakes around Crockenhill are primarily found in the surrounding areas, as the village itself is characterized by rolling hills and ancient woodlands rather than prominent natural lakes. The region is known for its scenic countryside and proximity to the Darent Valley, which features riverside paths. While large natural lakes are not a feature of Crockenhill's immediate vicinity, several notable ponds and man-made lakes are accessible nearby. These water features offer opportunities for walking and observing local wildlife.
Best lakes around…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
The Tarn
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Keston Ponds
Highlight • Natural
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Keston Common Fishponds and Heathland
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Long Pond, North Park
Highlight • Natural
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Danson Lake
Highlight • Lake
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Tips from the Community
Big lake with lots of places to sit, there’s also a cafe nearby too.
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I ride past The Tarn whilst on a couple of my regular routes to and from favourite trails and woods - there’s a no cycling sign so I never went in until today - it’s amazing. Typically there was a couple of e bikes buzzing around but if you’re passing it’s well worth looking in. The Tarn is one of Royal Greenwich's Green Flag award winning sites. The Tarn is a beautiful wildfowl and bird sanctuary set within a charming landscaped garden, a well kept secret hidden away just off Court Road in Eltham. Many of it's original features have been retained from the 1930s, as it was originally on the grounds of Eltham Palace. There's a picnic area to sit and watch the wildlife. This unique site was purchased in 1934 when it was turned into a public park, it features a distictive green coloured lake, caused by the algae that grows on it, which makes it so popular with the many species of birds it hosts. The site was purchased in 1934 and turned into a public park and features a picnic area
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Large scenic lake with a boating area and fishing spots. Woodland trails to the bottom edge.
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I grew up in Eltham, we regularly played in North Park; there was a water fountain by the duck pond - which has since been removed, as has the adjacent hut that we’d sit in when it rained. Other wildlife frequent the pond, not just ducks, terrapins, frogs, toads and all manner of water birds. I’m not sure when this North Park duck pond has been re-christened ‘Long Pond’ .. but there’s now a pub named after it in Westmount Road… which used to be a video rental place.
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Built to provide water to Holwood House, later became popular as a bathing spot in Victorian times, and now popular with fishers.
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Take route slowly first and check for logs placed to deter motorbikes
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of water features can I expect to find around Crockenhill?
Crockenhill itself is characterized by rolling hills and woodlands, so you won't find large natural lakes directly within the village. However, the surrounding areas feature several notable ponds, fishponds, and man-made lakes, offering diverse settings for outdoor activities and nature observation.
Are there any family-friendly lakes or ponds near Crockenhill?
Yes, several spots are great for families. Keston Ponds and Keston Common Fishponds and Heathland are popular choices. Additionally, Danson Park and Danson House offers an expansive English Garden with a lake, suitable for all ages.
Where can I observe wildlife around the lakes near Crockenhill?
For wildlife observation, The Tarn is an excellent choice. It functions as a wildfowl and bird sanctuary, retaining many of its original features from the 1930s. Long Pond, North Park also hosts various water birds, terrapins, frogs, and toads.
Are there historical sites associated with the lakes in the area?
Yes, there are. Keston Ponds were originally built to supply water to Holwood House and were a popular Victorian bathing spot. The Tarn was once part of the Eltham Palace grounds, and Danson Park and Danson House features an old house within its English Garden setting.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The area around Crockenhill is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, such as the 'Samuel Palmer's House – Otford Duck Pond loop from Shoreham' or the 'Polhill Bank Nature Reserve – View of Darenth Valley loop from Shoreham'. There are also dedicated MTB Trails and Gravel biking routes available in the wider region.
Are there specific hiking trails that pass by these water features?
While specific trails directly around each pond vary, the broader Darent Valley features riverside paths that are popular for walking. For example, the 'Otford Duck Pond loop from Shoreham' explores the river valley. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking around Crockenhill guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes and ponds near Crockenhill?
Visitors appreciate the tranquil settings and the opportunities for nature observation. For instance, Keston Ponds are noted for their relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a break, and are popular with fishers. The Tarn is praised as a beautiful wildfowl and bird sanctuary within a charming landscaped garden.
Are there any nature reserves or protected areas near these lakes?
Yes, Keston Common Fishponds and Heathland is registered as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and has Ancient Scheduled Monument status, also designated as a Local Nature Reserve (LNR). This area offers a near-natural landscape for exploration.
Can I find viewpoints overlooking the water features?
Yes, some of the listed highlights offer scenic viewpoints. Keston Ponds and Danson Park and Danson House are both categorized as viewpoints, providing picturesque spots to enjoy the water and surrounding landscapes.
Are the lakes and ponds around Crockenhill suitable for fishing?
Yes, Keston Ponds are particularly popular with fishers. It's advisable to check local regulations and permit requirements before planning a fishing trip.
What is the best way to get to the lakes around Crockenhill?
Access to the various lakes and ponds will depend on their specific location. Crockenhill itself is accessible by public transport, with bus routes connecting to nearby towns. For many of these sites, driving and parking nearby is often the most convenient option, though specific parking details for each location should be checked.
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