Top 8 Lakes around Hawkhurst
Best lakes around Hawkhurst are primarily found within the tranquil Kent countryside, offering diverse experiences. The area is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly at the Hawkhurst Fish Farm complex. Beyond fishing, visitors can explore picturesque historical sites with lakes and large recreational reservoirs. The landscape provides a mix of natural beauty and managed outdoor spaces for various activities.
Best lakes around Hawkhurst
- The most popular lakes is Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, a forest that features a…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest
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Scotney Castle and Gardens
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Bewl Water
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Park Watermill Pond
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Louisa Lake
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"Spring has arrived – and the sun has melted the ice on the mill pond. Its rays reach to the bottom of the pond – and tickle awake the little water sprite, who has been hibernating with his mermaid parents. And what's the first thing a curious little water sprite does? Spring cleaning with his mother? Repairing the broken roof of the water sprite's house? Wrong! Of course, the little water sprite's first priority is to meet his old friend, Cyprinus the carp... The little water sprite isn't quite as cheeky here as in the 1955 original – but Daniel Napp's little spring story has been enchantingly illustrated. A magical, endearing, and ageless reading experience for children ages 4 and up." The Stiftung Lesen (Reading Foundation) reviews a four-volume sequel to the popular "The Little Water Sprite" by Otfried Preußler (1923 to 2013), which guides children through the seasons in this children's book series.
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Louisa Lake is a charming spot nestled within Bedgebury Forest, often encountered on the woodland bike trails. With a peaceful bench nearby, it’s the perfect place to pause and take in the scenery.
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The complex is dominated by the manor house on the hill and the ruin further down in the valley. The ruin was "created" from a functioning house several hundred years old by the owners of the manor house in order to obtain a romantic view. The two buildings are embedded in a beautiful garden. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/scotney-castle
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At the back exit of Bateman's and therefore worth visiting even if you are not visiting the park and the house. We walked a very long way around the grounds - the only benches were here 😳
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This garden, which is not so well known internationally, gave us so much joy! Incredible flowers, and that in April. The "new" house can be visited, the old one is just a very picturesque ruin. Entry per adult £17, NT members excluded. Parking was free today, the guidebook said £4 (?) Café extremely friendly and really good cake.
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Louisa Lake is a small, pretty lake within the Bedgebury forest. You pass it on a few loops of the woods and there is a nice bench if you fancy a rest.
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Parking is £7 per car for a full day. No other options for shorter periods. Cafe, toilets, bike hire, laser tag and water sport activities on site. Plenty of space to park on weekends. Great views of the reservoir and access to walking trails.
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Managed by Forestry England, the National Pinetum is home to over 12000 specimens of trees and is a great place to visit for anyone interested in conservation. The adjacent forest is full of tracks and trails for cycling, walking, running and a tree top adventure, Go Ape. Take a moment out from your ride and breathe it all in. There is also a visitors centre with toilets and a cafe on site.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes for family activities around Hawkhurst?
For families, Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest offers a 10 km paved family cycling trail with adventure playgrounds. Scotney Castle and Gardens provides beautiful gardens and a historical setting around its lake. Bewl Water is also very family-friendly with bike hire, a cafe, and a water bus. The Hawkhurst Fish Farm complex includes dedicated Junior Lakes for young anglers.
Are there good walking trails around the lakes near Hawkhurst?
Yes, there are several excellent walking opportunities. Bewl Water offers a 12-mile circuit around the reservoir. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest has miles of trails suitable for walking. The gardens around Scotney Castle Lake also provide picturesque strolls.
Can I go cycling around the lakes in Hawkhurst?
Absolutely. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest is a prime spot for cycling, featuring three dedicated trails and a 10 km family paved route. Bewl Water also offers bike hire and a popular circuit for cyclists. You can find various cycling routes in the area, including gravel biking and road cycling options, by exploring the Cycling around Hawkhurst guide.
Where can I go fishing near Hawkhurst?
The Hawkhurst Fish Farm complex is the primary destination for fishing, offering seven lakes catering to different types of anglers. These include the Main Lake for specimen carp and catfish, the Specimen Lake for serious angling, and Quarry Lake for a productive day ticket experience. You can find more details at Visit Kent.
Are there historical sites associated with lakes in the Hawkhurst area?
Yes, Scotney Castle and Gardens is a notable historical site where a small lake surrounds the ruins of a medieval, moated manor house. Additionally, Park Watermill Pond is part of the historic Bateman's estate, with a mill that has existed since the 13th century.
What kind of wildlife can I see around the lakes near Hawkhurst?
The lakes in the Hawkhurst area support diverse wildlife. The Hawkhurst Fish Farm complex, despite being primarily for fishing, is noted for ducks, swans, and kingfishers. Bewl Water, as a large clean water reservoir, is also home to a wide variety of wildlife.
Are the lakes around Hawkhurst easily accessible for visitors?
Many lakes offer good accessibility. For instance, the Hawkhurst Fish Farm's Quarry Lake has spacious jetties, some with adjacent parking. Bewl Water has reasonable parking charges and facilities. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest has paid parking available.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Hawkhurst?
The lakes are enjoyable year-round. Spring and autumn offer beautiful colors, especially in the gardens of Scotney Castle. Summer is ideal for water activities at Bewl Water and fishing at Hawkhurst Fish Farm. Even in winter, the tranquil settings provide a peaceful escape.
Are there dog-friendly lakes near Hawkhurst?
Many outdoor areas in the region are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest and Bewl Water are popular choices for walks with dogs, though specific rules may apply in certain areas or during particular seasons.
What facilities are available at the lakes around Hawkhurst?
Facilities vary by location. The Hawkhurst Fish Farm complex includes a café, tackle shop, showers, and toilets. Bewl Water offers bike hire, a cafe, and a water bus service. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest has a cafe and adventure playgrounds.
Can I find quiet spots for nature observation around Hawkhurst's lakes?
Yes, many of the lakes offer tranquil settings. Louisa Lake within Bedgebury Forest is described as a peaceful spot with a bench. The Hawkhurst Fish Farm lakes, while popular for fishing, are set within the tranquil Kent countryside, offering opportunities for quiet observation of nature and wildlife.
What are the options for water-based activities other than fishing?
Bewl Water, as the largest body of inland water in southeast England, offers various water-based activities, including a water bus service. While wild swimming is generally not permitted in most reservoirs or private fishing lakes for safety reasons, Bewl Water may offer specific supervised water sports during certain seasons.
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Still not found your perfect lake around Hawkhurst? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
