Top 13 Lakes around Cowfold
Best lakes around Cowfold, a village in West Sussex, England, offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The area is characterized by its numerous lakes, many of which are set within country parks or rewilding estates. These bodies of water provide settings for various outdoor activities and opportunities to observe local wildlife.
Best lakes around Cowfold
- The most popular lakes is Knepp Estate Lake, an other natural area that is part of a rewilding project. This estate has successfully…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Ardingly Reservoir
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Tilgate Lake
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Southwater Country Park
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Knepp Estate Lake
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Southwater Lake
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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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Southwater Country Park was formed after the closure of the brickworks and quarry in 1981. The area is now a thriving wildlife and leisure area with woodland, grasslands and a lake. There are children's playgrounds, a beach for paddling, watersports, fishing, bike trails and a café.
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Wonderful dinosaur themed park that is along the cycle route and trackway way, sells hot food and ice cream so well worth taking a break here.
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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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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
Which lakes near Cowfold are best for watersports?
For watersports, Tilgate Lake is a popular choice, offering activities like canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and open water swimming. Ardingly Reservoir also has watersports activities at its southeastern end, while Southwater Lake within Southwater Country Park is designated for canoeing, sailing, and fishing.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Cowfold?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Tilgate Lake in Tilgate Park offers a range of activities suitable for all ages. Southwater Lake, part of Southwater Country Park, provides a large country park setting with facilities and designated water activities. Knepp Estate Lake is also family-friendly, offering a beautiful place to hike and observe wildlife.
Where can I find good hiking trails near the lakes?
You can find excellent hiking opportunities around the lakes. The Knepp Estate Lake is part of a rewilding project with beautiful trails. The perimeter path around Ardingly Reservoir is also popular for walks. For more options, explore the various routes in the Hiking around Cowfold guide, which includes trails like the 'Crabtree Fishing Lake – Jobs Castle Bridleway loop'.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes?
Ardingly Reservoir is a designated Local Nature Reserve and a wildlife haven, known for attracting Ospreys and featuring two bird hides. The Knepp Estate Lake, part of a rewilding project, has successfully restored nature, attracting rare species such as nightingales, peregrine falcons, and turtle doves, along with deer and many birds and dragonflies.
Are there any historical sites or interesting facts about the lakes?
Yes, Tilgate Lake has a rich history dating back to the Mesolithic period, with flint tools found in the area. It was a royal deer park in the 1600s and later part of the Tilgate Manor Estate. Ardingly Reservoir, while more recent, was built in the 1970s and quickly became a significant wildlife habitat.
Can I go cycling or gravel biking near the lakes?
Absolutely. The area around Cowfold offers great opportunities for cycling and gravel biking. The Downs Link path follows the eastern boundary of Southwater Country Park and is accessible from the car park. You can find detailed routes in the Cycling around Cowfold and Gravel biking around Cowfold guides.
Are there cafes or facilities available at the lakes?
Southwater Country Park, which includes Southwater Lake, features a large café with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating overlooking Cripplegate Lake. This makes it a convenient spot to start or end a visit.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Cowfold?
Visitors frequently praise the diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The rewilding efforts at Knepp Estate Lake are highly appreciated for their success in restoring nature. The pleasant walks, wildlife spotting, and the range of watersports available at places like Tilgate Lake and Ardingly Reservoir are also popular highlights.
Is public transport available to reach any of the lakes?
While specific public transport routes can vary, Tilgate Lake is located within Tilgate Park, which was acquired by Crawley Urban District Council in the 1960s and is now open to the public, suggesting accessibility. For Southwater Country Park, the visitor centre and car park are easily accessible.
Can I fish in the lakes near Cowfold?
Fishing is a popular activity at some of the lakes. Southwater Lake within Southwater Country Park is designated for fishing, among other water activities. Tilgate Lake was historically owned for private fishing before becoming publicly accessible. It's advisable to check local regulations and permit requirements for specific lakes.
Are there less crowded lakes for a quieter experience?
While popular spots like Tilgate Lake and Southwater Lake can be busy, exploring the wider trails around areas like Knepp Estate Lake or the less frequented paths around Ardingly Reservoir, especially during off-peak times, can offer a more tranquil experience.
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