Top 20 Lakes around Worth
Best lakes around Worth offers access to a variety of natural and man-made water bodies, primarily located in the Sussex area of the UK. The region features reservoirs, lakes, and fishponds, providing diverse outdoor experiences. These areas are characterized by their natural habitats, historical significance, and opportunities for watersports and walking. The landscape around Worth includes both protected nature reserves and areas developed for recreational use.
Best lakes around Worth
- The most popular lakes is Ardingly Reservoir, a lake…
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Ardingly Reservoir
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Ardingly Reservoir Activity Centre
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Tilgate Lake
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Ifield Mill
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Weir Wood Reservoir Local Nature Reserve
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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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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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Also a Local Nature Reserve, Ardingly Reservoir was built in the 1970s. It is a wildlife haven with Ospreys even seen here. There are two bird hides on this eastern shore while the south eastern end is a hive of watersports activity.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find around Worth in Sussex?
Around Worth in Sussex, you'll find a variety of water bodies including reservoirs, natural lakes, and fishponds. These range from wildlife havens like Ardingly Reservoir to historical sites with adjacent lakes such as Ifield Mill, offering diverse experiences for visitors.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the Worth area?
Yes, several lakes around Worth are great for families. Ardingly Reservoir and Tilgate Lake are both listed as family-friendly, offering activities and easy access. Ifield Mill also provides a family-friendly historical experience.
Which lakes are best for watersports near Worth?
For watersports, Ardingly Reservoir is a popular spot, known for its watersports activity. Tilgate Lake is also a major watersports center, offering canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and open water swimming. Additionally, the western end of Weir Wood Reservoir Local Nature Reserve is home to a sailing club.
Where can I go for wildlife observation around Worth's lakes?
Both Ardingly Reservoir and Weir Wood Reservoir Local Nature Reserve are excellent for wildlife observation. Ardingly Reservoir is a designated wildlife haven with two bird hides, and Weir Wood Reservoir is a Site of Special Scientific Interest known for its bird populations, also featuring a bird hide.
Are there historical sites associated with the lakes near Worth?
Yes, Ifield Mill is a notable historical site, featuring a 19th-century weatherboarded watermill with a large adjacent lake, demonstrating ancient water power use. Tilgate Lake also has a rich history, with human presence dating back to the Mesolithic period and its past as a royal deer park.
What kind of walking trails can I find near the lakes?
You can find various walking trails near the lakes. The walk around Ardingly Reservoir is described as very nice with easy access. Horsted Keynes Fishponds offers a lovely gravel section and an off-road route through a secluded valley.
Can I go cycling near the lakes around Worth?
Yes, the area around Worth offers several cycling opportunities. You can explore routes like the 'Worth Way – Crawley Down Pond loop' or the 'M23 Bridge Crossing (Crawley) – Worth Way Forest Section loop'. For more options, check out the Cycling around Worth guide.
Are there options for gravel biking near Worth's lakes?
Absolutely. The region provides routes suitable for gravel biking, such as the 'Forest Way – Forest Way Cycle Path loop from East Grinstead' or the 'Worth Way – Forest Way Country Park loop from Three Bridges'. Discover more routes in the Gravel biking around Worth guide.
Where can I go running near the lakes in Worth?
There are several running trails available. Consider routes like the 'Rowfant Station – Crawley Down Pond loop from Worth School' or the 'M23 Bridge Crossing (Crawley) – Cows at High Weald Farm loop from Worth'. For a comprehensive list, refer to the Running Trails around Worth guide.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes around Worth?
Visitors appreciate the natural beauty and diverse activities. Many enjoy the pleasant walks around reservoirs like Ardingly Reservoir, the opportunities for watersports at Tilgate Lake, and the tranquil scenery found at places like Horsted Keynes Fishponds. The historical aspect of sites like Ifield Mill is also a highlight.
Are dogs allowed at the lakes around Worth?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome. For instance, the walk around Ardingly Reservoir is popular with dog walkers, indicating a dog-friendly environment.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gem' lakes in the area?
While not explicitly 'hidden,' Horsted Keynes Fishponds offers a secluded hidden valley and an off-road route, providing a quieter, scenic experience away from more bustling watersports centers.
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