Top 5 Lakes around Angmering
Best lakes around Angmering offer picturesque settings and recreational opportunities in West Sussex. The region features a mix of natural and man-made lakes, providing diverse experiences for visitors. These bodies of water are often surrounded by woodland and walking trails, making them suitable for outdoor activities. The area's natural landscape contributes to its appeal for those seeking lakeside exploration.
Best lakes around Angmering
- The most popular lakes is Swanbourne Lake, a forest that is rich with wildlife and overlooked by Arundel Castle. It offers walking paths, rowing boat hire between March and October, and a tearoom.
- Another must-see spot is Patching Pond, a historic, man-made lake in West Sussex. It is a well-known fishing spot, stocked with carp since the 1960s.
- Visitors also love WWT Arundel Wetland Centre, a nature reserve supporting myriad species of wildlife. The center features lakes, reed beds, and channels.
- Angmering is known for natural lakes, historic ponds, and wetland centers. These offer diverse environments for recreation and wildlife observation.
- The lakes around Angmering are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 100 upvotes and over 30 photos shared.
Last updated: August 22, 2026
Swanbourne Lake
Highlight • Forest
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Patching Pond
Highlight • Lake
It was stocked with carp in the 1960s by Donald Leney, and a number of these original fish are still present.
It is a well-known fishing spot with a mix of carp, including the historic Leney fish and more recent additions.
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NCN2 Cycle Path Along Widewater Lagoon
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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WWT Arundel Wetland Centre
Highlight • Lake
Entry costs £10.88 per adult, £5.85 per child and £28.43 for a family (two adults, two children). For opening times and more information, visit: wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/arundel.
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Tips from the Community
It is currently fenced off with goats grazing around it. The goats for sure are curious of visitors.
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A historic, man-made lake in West Sussex, mentioned in the Domesday Book. It was stocked with carp in the 1960s by Donald Leney, and a number of these original fish are still present. It is a well-known fishing spot with a mix of carp, including the historic Leney fish and more recent additions.
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A beautiful lake in a tranquil setting with benches and a gorgeous lodge tea room on site. Such a nice place to visit and to take some time out at.
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This is a great tarmac cycle path part of NCN2 which passes Widewater Lagoon on the Lancing/Shoreham-By-Sea boarders. It can get quite busy with pedestrians in the summer months. No lights here so lights are definitely needed when dark.
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Good place to go with the kids to feed the swans and ducks.
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Beautiful lake. Only 1 mile (1.6 km) walk alongside a small stream from Arundel. Has some free parking nearby. Cafe in the Lodge.
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In a picturesque setting, overlooked by Arundel Castle, Swanbourne Lake is a beautiful place that's rich with wildlife. You can take a leisurely saunter around the lake and woodland, relax on the banks and even hire a rowing boat between March and October. Swanbourne Lodge Tearooms, opposite the boathouse, offers a range of food and drink.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What lakes around Angmering are suitable for families?
Several lakes near Angmering offer family-friendly experiences. Swanbourne Lake is ideal for leisurely strolls, feeding ducks, and even rowing boat hires. Patching Pond, while known for fishing, can also be a quiet spot for a family visit. The WWT Arundel Wetland Centre provides an educational wildlife experience, and the NCN2 Cycle Path Along Widewater Lagoon is great for family cycling.
Are there opportunities for walking and hiking near the lakes?
Yes, the area around Angmering's lakes offers various walking and hiking opportunities. You can enjoy a leisurely walk around Swanbourne Lake, which has a footpath extending into the adjacent woodland. For more extensive options, explore the easy hikes around Angmering, which include routes like the 'Angmering Village – View of the Pond loop'.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes?
The lakes are rich in wildlife. Swanbourne Lake is home to ducks and swans, making it a popular spot for bird feeding. The WWT Arundel Wetland Centre is a dedicated nature reserve supporting a myriad of species, including bats, grass snakes, kingfishers, newts, various songbirds, damselflies, dragonflies, and water voles.
Are there any historic lakes in the Angmering area?
Yes, Patching Pond is a historic, man-made lake in West Sussex, notable for being mentioned in the Domesday Book. It has a long history, including being stocked with carp in the 1960s, with some of those original fish still present today.
Where can I find refreshments or cafes near the lakes?
Near Swanbourne Lake, you'll find the Swanbourne Lodge Tearooms, located opposite the boathouse. They offer a range of food and drink options. There's also a café and an ice cream kiosk available for visitors.
What activities are available on the lakes themselves?
At Swanbourne Lake, you can hire rowing boats between March and October. Patching Pond is a well-known fishing spot, particularly for carp. For cycling enthusiasts, the NCN2 Cycle Path Along Widewater Lagoon offers a dedicated tarmac route.
Is there parking available at the lakes?
Yes, there is some free parking available near Swanbourne Lake. For other locations, it's advisable to check local signage or specific venue information.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Angmering?
The spring and summer months (March to October) are ideal for visiting, especially if you plan to hire rowing boats at Swanbourne Lake. The NCN2 Cycle Path Along Widewater Lagoon can get busy with pedestrians in the summer. For wildlife spotting, the WWT Arundel Wetland Centre offers year-round interest, with specific bird species like Bewick’s swans and pochards present in winter.
Are there cycling routes near the lakes?
Absolutely. The NCN2 Cycle Path Along Widewater Lagoon is a popular tarmac route for cyclists. For mountain biking, you can explore the MTB Trails around Angmering, which include routes like the 'Barpham Hill Summit loop'.
Can I go running near the lakes?
Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity. You can find various options within the Running Trails around Angmering guide, with routes ranging from moderate to difficult, such as the 'Wephams Wood Bluebells – Seldon Lane loop'.
Are the lakes accessible for visitors with limited mobility?
Swanbourne Lake features a footpath that allows for walks around the lake, which may offer some accessibility. For specific details on terrain and suitability for wheelchairs, it's best to check the individual location or contact them directly.
What is the WWT Arundel Wetland Centre?
The WWT Arundel Wetland Centre is a significant nature reserve near Angmering. It features lakes, reed beds, channels, and waterfalls, providing a habitat for a diverse range of wildlife. It's an excellent place for nature observation and learning about wetland ecosystems. Entry fees apply, and it's recommended to check their official website for current opening times and prices.
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