Best lakes around Bethersden are found in a village setting in Kent, offering diverse natural and man-made water bodies. The area is characterized by its serene environments, often featuring rich wildlife and historical connections. These lakes provide opportunities for various outdoor activities, from nature observation to angling. The landscape around Bethersden includes both managed estates and more secluded natural spots.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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This is a beautiful open stretch of the Pilgrims way .
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Field crossing near the church besides a picturesque lake
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Eastwell Park is a large area of parkland and a country estate in the civil parish of Eastwell, adjoining Ashford, Kent, in England. It was owned by the Earls of Winchilsea for more than three centuries. Over time, successive buildings have served as homes to Sir Thomas Moyle, the Earls of Winchilsea and Nottingham, Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh, and others. The estate is now mainly a farming concern, raising crops and sheep. Part of the estate is landscaped to include a large shallow lake that can be fished and the distinctive Eastwell Towers. The largest building on the site today is Eastwell Manor, a stately home that was rebuilt on a smaller scale during the 1920s using much of the material from the previous larger house, which is now operated as a country house hotel. Hence the Manor and Towers are only Grade II listed.[1]
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Lovely views over Eastwell Lake from the Eastwell Lake water crossing.
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Discovering this refreshing oasis is a wonderful surprise as you make your way along the High Weald Heritage Trail.
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Doesn't show up on Komoot’s map, so I was surprised to see it.
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Eastwell Lake is a man-made lake that is very rich in wildlife. Herons fish on the shores and kingfishers can be observed here. It is home to many native wildfowl and is an important site for migrating birds. Keep a look-out for badgers, stoats, and roe deer, too. Interestingly, Queen Victoria is said to have skated on the lake once whilst it was frozen over.
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The lakes around Bethersden offer diverse natural beauty. Eastwell Lake is particularly rich in wildlife, where you can spot herons, kingfishers, and various native wildfowl. Keep an eye out for badgers, stoats, and roe deer. The area provides a serene environment for nature observation.
Yes, Eastwell Lake has a notable historical anecdote, with Queen Victoria once said to have skated on its frozen surface. Additionally, Eastwell Manor Lake is situated within the historic Eastwell Manor Park Gardens, part of a large country estate with centuries of history.
Bethersden is well-known for its fishing lakes. Chequertree Fishing Lakes offer both coarse and trout fishing with comprehensive facilities. Surrenden Lakes provide diverse coarse angling, including large carp, bream, tench, and barbel, with options for season tickets. Lovelace Farm Fishery is an excellent choice for day-ticket anglers specifically targeting large carp. Eastwell Manor Lake also offers fishing opportunities.
Yes, several lakes are considered family-friendly. Eastwell Lake and Eastwell Manor Lake are great for scenic walks and nature spotting. Chequertree Fishing Lakes, being a family-run fishery, offers a relaxing atmosphere and amenities like a clubhouse/cafe, making it suitable for a family outing, even if not everyone is fishing.
You can find various walking opportunities. For instance, the Pond in High Weald National Landscape is a refreshing oasis along the High Weald Heritage Trail. Scenic walks are also popular around Eastwell Lake, offering beautiful views. For more structured routes, you can explore easy hikes around Bethersden, which include trails like the 'Plum Orchards loop'.
Yes, the area around Bethersden offers various cycling routes. You can find several options for road cycling, including the 'Scenic Country Lane – Woodchurch Village Green loop' or the 'Woodchurch Vineyard – Woodchurch Windmill loop'. Explore these and other routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Bethersden guide.
Chequertree Fishing Lakes offers comprehensive facilities including a well-maintained clubhouse/cafe, a small tackle shop, coaching for fly and coarse fishing, fishing lodges, caravan and camping facilities, and bankside disabled access. Surrenden Lakes primarily offers season ticket coarse angling facilities.
Yes, the region offers options for accommodation and dining. Chequertree Fishing Lakes provides caravan and camping facilities. Eastwell Manor Lake is part of the Eastwell Manor estate, which operates as a country house hotel, offering dining and accommodation. You can also find local pubs and cafes in Bethersden village and surrounding areas.
The lakes around Bethersden can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for wildlife spotting, fishing, and enjoying the lush scenery. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, while winter can provide a serene, quiet experience, with historical anecdotes like Queen Victoria skating on Eastwell Lake during colder periods.
Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity of Bethersden's lakes. You can find routes like the 'Running loop from Bethersden' or the 'St Margaret's Church loop'. For more options, refer to the Running Trails around Bethersden guide.
Visitors particularly appreciate the serene environments, the rich wildlife, and the diverse opportunities for outdoor activities. The beautiful views over lakes like Eastwell Lake are often highlighted, as is the refreshing oasis found at the Pond in High Weald National Landscape. The area's blend of natural beauty and historical charm is also a significant draw.


Still not found your perfect lake around Bethersden? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.