Top 19 Lakes around Slaugham
Best lakes around Slaugham offer a blend of historical significance and natural beauty in West Sussex. The area features notable bodies of water such as Slaugham Mill Pond and Furnace Pond, which played roles in the region's ironworking industry. These lakes provide opportunities for nature appreciation, walking, and various forms of angling. The landscape combines serene natural settings with historical intrigue, making it a destination for outdoor activities.
Best lakes around Slaugham
- The most popular lakes is Knepp Estate Lake…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Ardingly Reservoir
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Tilgate Lake
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Ifield Mill
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Southwater Country Park
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Knepp Estate Lake
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Tips from the Community
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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Southwater Country Park was formed after the closure of the brickworks and quarry in 1981. The area is now a thriving wildlife and leisure area with woodland, grasslands and a lake. There are children's playgrounds, a beach for paddling, watersports, fishing, bike trails and a café.
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Wonderful dinosaur themed park that is along the cycle route and trackway way, sells hot food and ice cream so well worth taking a break here.
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Using the power of moving water to drive a mill wheel is an ancient invention of the human spirit of discovery, the origins of which can be traced back to times long past. Thanks to such a construction, human or animal muscle power could be easily replaced by the power of the natural elements through a watercourse - natural or artificially created - in order to grind grain into corn or press oil from fruit, for example. There are essentially two different ways of driving watermills: * Either the flowing water simply hits the blades of the water wheel from below to set it in motion; or * the water is guided above the wheel - usually through a so-called "mill channel" - and falls onto the blades; this type of construction is more efficient due to natural gravity.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore near the lakes in Slaugham?
Slaugham is rich in history, particularly related to the ironworking industry. You can visit Slaugham Mill Pond, which dates back to the 14th century and powered a furnace. Nearby, Furnace Pond was created in 1574 to support a local ironstone foundry. Another historical spot is Ifield Mill, a 19th-century weatherboarded watermill with a large adjacent lake. Tilgate Lake also has a history stretching back to the Mesolithic period and was once a royal deer park.
Are there good walking or hiking trails around the lakes?
Yes, there are several pleasant walking opportunities. The Slaugham Mill Pond and Furnace Pond Loop is an accessible 5 km (3.1 miles) trail that winds through ancient woodlands, offering chances to spot wildlife and enjoy seasonal flora like bluebells in spring or vibrant autumn foliage. You can also enjoy a walk around Ardingly Reservoir. For more hiking options, explore the hiking guide for Slaugham.
Which lakes are best for wildlife spotting and nature appreciation?
Slaugham Mill Pond is a haven for birdwatchers, with sightings of kingfishers, herons, and various duck species. Knepp Estate Lake is part of a rewilding project, making it an excellent spot for observing free-roaming wildlife, including rare bird species, deer, and dragonflies. Ardingly Reservoir is a Local Nature Reserve and a wildlife haven, known for osprey sightings and featuring two bird hides.
Can I go fishing at the lakes in Slaugham?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Slaugham Mill Pond offers fishing opportunities. Furnace Pond is a 7-acre mixed fishery, well-stocked with carp, tench, bream, silverfish, and pike, managed by Slaugham Angling Club. Stonehouse Farm Specimen Lake, also part of the Slaugham Angling Club, is specifically stocked with unique and specimen carp for a challenging angling experience.
Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes?
Many lakes offer family-friendly options. The accessible 5 km loop around Slaugham Mill Pond and Furnace Pond is suitable for families. Tilgate Lake is a popular watersports center with various activities. Southwater Country Park, featuring Cripplegate Lake, has a large café and a beach area, making it a great spot for families. The rewilding project at Knepp Estate Lake also offers engaging nature observation.
What kind of watersports can I do near Slaugham?
For watersports enthusiasts, Tilgate Lake is a popular center offering activities such as canoeing, kayaking, rowing, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, and open water swimming. Ardingly Reservoir also has watersports activities at its southeastern end.
When is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Slaugham?
The lakes offer beauty year-round. For vibrant bluebells, spring is ideal, especially along the Slaugham Mill Pond and Furnace Pond Loop. Autumn provides stunning foliage. Summer is great for watersports and longer walks. Birdwatching is often good throughout the year, with specific species varying seasonally.
Are there cycling routes near the lakes in Slaugham?
Yes, there are several cycling opportunities. You can find routes that pass by lakes, such as the 'Tilgate Park Bridleway – Tilgate Lake loop from Crawley'. For a comprehensive list of cycling trails, refer to the cycling guide for Slaugham.
Where can I find information about walks and maps for the Slaugham area?
For detailed information on local walks, including maps, you can refer to resources provided by the local council. For example, Mid Sussex District Council offers a 'Slaugham Walk and Map' PDF, which can be found at midsussex.gov.uk.
What are some popular mountain biking trails near the lakes?
Mountain biking is a great way to explore the area. Trails like the 'Tilgate Park Bridleway loop from Three Bridges' offer challenging rides. You can discover more options by checking the MTB Trails around Slaugham guide.
Are the walks around Slaugham lakes dog-friendly?
Many of the walking routes around the lakes are dog-friendly. For instance, the walk around Ardingly Reservoir is popular with dog walkers. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, and check for any specific local restrictions.
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