Top 14 Lakes around Haywards Heath
Best lakes around Haywards Heath are situated in the wider Mid Sussex area, offering diverse water features. The region is characterized by a mix of natural and man-made water bodies, including reservoirs, fishing lakes, and historic garden lakes. These locations provide opportunities for watersports, wildlife observation, and tranquil walks. The landscape around Haywards Heath supports a variety of aquatic environments.
Best lakes around Haywards Heath
- The most popular lakes is Ardingly Reservoir, a lake that is a wildlife haven and a hub for watersports activities. It is also designated as a Local Nature Reserve.
- Another must-see spot is Dew Pond with Lone Tree, a man-made pond originally dug to collect rainwater for animals. These ponds are often located on hills and provide scenic views.
- Visitors also love Tilgate Lake, the largest of three lakes in Tilgate Park. It is a popular watersports center offering a wide range of outdoor activities.
- Haywards Heath is known for reservoirs, fishing lakes, and historic garden lakes. These provide a variety of experiences for visitors.
- The lakes around Haywards Heath are appreciated by the komoot community, with 293 upvotes and 50 photos contributed by users.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Ardingly Reservoir
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Tilgate Lake
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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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Dew Pond with Lone Tree
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Sheffield Park and Garden Lakes
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The design of the park and the expansion of the house were initiated by John Holroyd at the end of the 19th century. He and his wife spent a fortune to design the property according to their ideas. The park and garden were further designed according to the original plans by subsequent owners. Finally, the National Trust acquired the site and now looks after it.
The current opening times and further information can be found here: nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/sheffield-park-and-garden.
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Horsted Keynes Fishponds
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Tips from the Community
A very beautiful park with many old trees and beautiful plantings. The lakes form the center of the park. Old redwoods and sequoias are found here.
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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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Four lakes form the heart of the garden and at the end of the line of sight the Gothic castle rises on a hill. While you can explore all the paths in the garden and the adjacent parkland, the house is privately owned and cannot be visited. The design of the park and the expansion of the house were initiated by John Holroyd at the end of the 19th century. He and his wife spent a fortune to design the property according to their ideas. The park and garden were further designed according to the original plans by subsequent owners. Finally, the National Trust acquired the site and now looks after it. The current opening times and further information can be found here: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/sheffield-park-and-garden.
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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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This is a wonderful little rest stop if your hiking or a quick breather stop if your out running. This isolated pond is a veritable haven for the local wildlife and domestic animals. It is also a great photo stop too.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular lakes for visitors around Haywards Heath?
Among the most popular are Ardingly Reservoir, known for its wildlife and watersports, and Tilgate Lake, a large watersports center within Tilgate Park. Visitors also appreciate the picturesque Sheffield Park and Garden Lakes for their stunning scenery and historic design.
Where can I enjoy watersports near Haywards Heath?
For watersports, Ardingly Reservoir is a prime location, especially its southeastern end. Tilgate Lake in Tilgate Park is another popular spot, offering a wide range of activities including canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Are there good fishing spots around Haywards Heath?
Yes, the area offers several excellent fishing locations. More House Farm Fishery near Wivelsfield features three lakes, including Kingfisher Lake for specimen carp. Balcombe Lake is another popular 10-acre estate lake, and Deaks Lane Ponds are known for match and pleasure angling, suitable for family fishing. You can also find fishing opportunities at Horsted Keynes Fishponds.
Which lakes are suitable for family outings?
Many lakes around Haywards Heath are family-friendly. Ardingly Reservoir and Tilgate Lake offer various activities and easy access. Sheffield Park and Garden Lakes provide beautiful, gentle strolls. Deaks Lane Ponds are particularly noted as perfect for family fishing.
Where can I go for a peaceful walk and wildlife spotting?
Ardingly Reservoir is a Local Nature Reserve and a significant wildlife haven, with bird hides for spotting ospreys and other species. More House Farm Fishery, while primarily for fishing, is surrounded by green fields and abundant wildlife, offering a tranquil setting. High Beeches Woodland and Water Garden also provides a serene experience with diverse flora and woodland elements.
Are there any lakes with historical significance or notable gardens?
Absolutely. Tilgate Lake is part of Tilgate Park, which has a history dating back to the Mesolithic period and was a royal deer park. The Sheffield Park and Garden Lakes are the centerpiece of a beautifully designed historic garden, managed by the National Trust, featuring a Gothic castle in the sightline. High Beeches Woodland and Water Garden also boasts a collection of rare and exotic plants within a historic garden setting.
What kind of cycling routes are available near the lakes?
The area around Haywards Heath offers various cycling routes. You can find moderate to difficult routes, such as the 'Fletching Village – Piltdown Pond loop' or the 'Ditchling Beacon loop'. For more options, explore the Cycling around Haywards Heath guide.
Are there mountain biking trails close to the lakes?
Yes, there are several mountain biking trails in the wider Haywards Heath area. Routes like the 'Devil's Dyke – View of Devil's Dyke loop' and 'Blackcap Summit and Trig Point loop' offer moderate challenges. For detailed routes, refer to the MTB Trails around Haywards Heath guide.
Can I find running trails near these lakes?
The region provides numerous running trails. You can find moderate routes such as the 'Cornfield Near Haywards Heath loop' or the 'Hurst Wood loop'. More running options are available in the Running Trails around Haywards Heath guide.
Are there any dog-friendly lakes or walks?
Yes, many areas are dog-friendly. For instance, the Dew Pond with Lone Tree is noted as a place where dogs love to dip into the water. The walk around Ardingly Reservoir is also popular with dog walkers.
What is a 'Dew Pond' and where can I find one?
A dew pond is a man-made pond, originally dug to collect rainwater for animals, often located high on hills. They are sometimes known as mist or cloud ponds and typically offer beautiful views. You can visit the picturesque Dew Pond with Lone Tree near Haywards Heath.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Haywards Heath?
Visitors particularly enjoy the diverse experiences offered, from the active watersports at Ardingly Reservoir and Tilgate Lake to the peaceful birdwatching and scenic walks. The beautiful landscapes of places like Sheffield Park and Garden Lakes and the tranquil fishing spots are also highly appreciated.
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