Attractions and Places To See around Cowfold - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Cowfold, a village in the Sussex Weald, include historical landmarks and natural features. The area is characterized by its traditional architecture, including buildings with Horsham stone slab roofs, and its connection to the surrounding woodlands. Points of interest range from historic churches to scenic reservoirs, offering a blend of cultural and natural exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Cowfold
- The most popular attractions is Ardingly Reservoir, a lake that is a wildlife haven and a center for watersports activity. It is also a Local Nature Reserve.
- Another must-see spot is West Grinstead Station, a historical site. This location offers amenities for visitors, including a restaurant with a large orchard garden.
- Visitors also love Shipley Windmill, a viewpoint and historical site. This old windmill was once owned by author Hilaire Belloc and appeared on television.
- Cowfold is known for historical sites, natural features, and architectural landmarks. Visitors can explore historical churches, scenic reservoirs, and traditional village architecture.
- The attractions around Cowfold are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 290 upvotes and 50 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Ardingly Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
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West Grinstead Station
Highlight • Historical Site
There is a "family restaurant" coffee place just off the track by the road.
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Shipley Windmill
Highlight • Viewpoint
This is the landmark that really puts Shipley on the map, most recently after the windmill appeared on television, as the home of ITV's Jonathan Creek character.
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Bramber Castle Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
The most visible feature of the castle today is the gatehouse tower, which still stands to almost its full height. Beyond it are the foundations of the living quarters, a kitchen and a guardhouse. The original castle was centred on a high knoll, on which was built a motte (a mound) that probably held a wooden structure. The motte was later abandoned in favour of a three-storey stone keep, of which only one wall still stands. The castle was surrounded by an outer ditch and an outer bank, and a stone wall around the top of the knoll.
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Tilgate Lake
Highlight • Viewpoint
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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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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These old windmills are the best proof that people were clever enough a number of centuries ago - long before the discovery of electricity and the inventions that resulted from it - to harness the power of the elements for their own purposes: no human or animal muscle power is needed for the grinding process, but the wind captured by the covered wings is enough to drive the heavy millstones and thus, for example, to grind flour from grain (grain mills) or to press oil from olives (oil mills). Often they are only technical and historical evidence of a long tradition of craftsmanship, because most of the old mills have been abandoned over time.
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Nowadays, only a few of them are still in operation in their original function, but are often merely technical and historical monuments to a long tradition of craftsmanship: the heavy millstones inside were moved using the power of the wind as the driving force, for example to grind grain into flour (so-called grain mills) or to press oil from fruits (e.g. olives) (so-called oil mills). These old windmills are therefore the best proof that people were clever enough to harness the power of the wind a number of centuries ago - long before the discovery of electricity and the inventions that followed.
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The remains of this Norman castle are perched on a high natural knoll overlooking the River Adur, defending a gap in the South Downs. Built soon after the Norman Conquest to help protect William I’s newly won territories, the castle was the Sussex seat of the de Braose family.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Cowfold?
Cowfold and its surroundings are rich in history. You can explore the impressive ruins of Bramber Castle Ruins, a Norman motte-and-bailey castle with a long history dating back to the Conquest. Another significant historical site is West Grinstead Station, which offers a glimpse into the area's past and includes amenities like a restaurant with an orchard garden. Don't miss Shipley Windmill, an old windmill once owned by author Hilaire Belloc and featured on television, showcasing traditional craftsmanship.
Are there any natural attractions or nature reserves near Cowfold?
Yes, the area boasts several natural attractions. Ardingly Reservoir is a Local Nature Reserve and a wildlife haven, where you might even spot Ospreys. It's also a popular spot for watersports. Another excellent natural feature is Tilgate Lake, the largest of three lakes in Tilgate Park, offering a wide range of outdoor activities and a history stretching back to the Mesolithic period.
What are the best places for family-friendly activities around Cowfold?
Many attractions around Cowfold are suitable for families. Ardingly Reservoir is family-friendly, with pleasant walks and opportunities for watersports. West Grinstead Station offers a family-friendly restaurant with a large orchard garden, perfect for a break. Both Shipley Windmill and Bramber Castle Ruins are also considered family-friendly, providing historical exploration in an engaging setting. Tilgate Lake is ideal for families, offering various outdoor activities and a nature reserve to explore.
Where can I go for a walk or hike near Cowfold?
The Cowfold area offers numerous walking and hiking opportunities. You can find many routes, including easy hikes, around the village. For specific trails, explore the guide to Easy hikes around Cowfold or the more general Hiking around Cowfold guide. Popular routes include loops from Lower Beeding and Nuthurst, often passing through scenic woodlands and offering views of the Surrey Hills.
Are there cycling routes available near Cowfold's attractions?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity in the region. You can find a variety of routes suitable for touring bicycles. Check out the Cycling around Cowfold guide for detailed routes. Options include easy loops from West Grinstead and Partridge Green, often utilizing paths like the Downs Link Gravel Path.
What is the significance of St Peter's Church in Cowfold?
St Peter's Church is a significant historical landmark in Cowfold, dating back to the 13th century. It's known as a 'Sussex ecclesiastical jewel box' and features a 15th-century nave and tower. Inside, you can find a notable 15th-century brass effigy of Thomas Nelond. The churchyard, surrounded by picturesque timber-framed houses, creates a unique 'cathedral close feel'.
Can I visit St Hugh's Monastery near Cowfold?
St Hugh's Monastery, also known as St Hugh's Charterhouse, is an impressive example of French Victorian Gothic Revival architecture located just south of Cowfold. While its 203ft (62m) high spire is a striking sight visible from the village, the monastery itself is not open to visitors due to the reclusive nature of the Carthusian order.
What makes the village centre of Cowfold unique?
The historic village centre, particularly around St Peter's Church, is characterized by its traditional charm and architecture spanning several centuries. Many old houses feature distinctive Horsham stone slab roofs, reflecting the local geology of Weald clay and Horsham Stone. A self-guided Cowfold Heritage Trail is available for those interested in exploring over 800 years of the village's unique history.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Cowfold?
Visitors frequently praise the diverse offerings around Cowfold. They appreciate the tranquil walks around places like Ardingly Reservoir, often mentioning the ease of access and the presence of dog walkers. The historical depth of sites like Bramber Castle Ruins is also a highlight, with many finding it a great picnic spot. The unique character of places like Shipley Windmill, with its historical connections, also receives positive feedback.
Are there any places to eat or drink near the attractions?
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. West Grinstead Station features a family restaurant with a large orchard garden, ideal for a coffee break or meal. In Cowfold village itself, the historic Hare and Hounds pub, which has been selling beer since 1851, offers a traditional village experience.
What is the best time to visit Cowfold and its attractions?
Cowfold and its attractions can be enjoyed year-round, but the spring and summer months (April to September) are particularly pleasant for exploring the natural features and walking trails, with warmer weather and longer daylight hours. The picturesque churchyard and historic village centre are charming in any season, and indoor attractions like the pubs offer a cozy retreat during cooler months.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots in the area?
Absolutely. Shipley Windmill offers a lovely viewpoint, allowing you to appreciate the surrounding landscape. The ruins of Bramber Castle Ruins are situated on a grassy hill, providing scenic views. Additionally, both Ardingly Reservoir and Tilgate Lake offer beautiful waterside vistas and opportunities for nature observation.
Most popular attractions around Cowfold
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