Attractions and Places To See around Southwater - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Southwater, West Sussex, include a variety of historical sites, viewpoints, and natural areas. This region in Southwater, United Kingdom, offers opportunities to explore former railway stations and significant landmarks. Visitors can discover a mix of man-made monuments and natural landscapes.
Best attractions and places to see around Southwater
- The most popular attractions is West Grinstead Station, a historical site that offers a place for a break or coffee. It features a family…
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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
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Baynards Station
Highlight • Historical Site
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The Milk Churn Coffee Shop
Highlight • Cafe
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Knepp Wildland Tree Platform
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tips from the Community
Not much to add that hasn't already been said in the comments above, other than that there used to be a pub, but this closed in 2009, the current owner has done an excellent job of maintaining the station and out buildings, when we passed they were working on some machinery in the engine shed.
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The station was used in the 1957 BBC television adaptation of The Railway Children. Has been lovingly restored, lovely to ride past.
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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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Baynards Station was a railway station on the Cranleigh line between Guildford, Surrey and Horsham, West Sussex, England. The station opened with the line on 2 October 1865 and consisted of the station master's house, two waiting rooms, covered platforms, storage sheds, a booking hall, a veranda and a large goods shed. The station was built for Lord Thurlow, the owner of nearby Baynards Park, whose land was on the route of the proposed railway. As a condition of the sale, Lord Thurlow required that a station be built to serve his estate, despite there being no major settlement nearby. The station was used heavily to supply the US Army training facilities at Baynards Park during World War II. The station closed in June 1965 when passenger services on the Cranleigh line were withdrawn as part of the Beeching Axe. The station is currently being restored and most of the buildings (including the locomotive shed) and platforms are still intact.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Southwater?
Southwater is rich in historical sites. You can explore the former railway station at West Grinstead Station, which is now a pleasant spot for a break with a nearby family restaurant and coffee place. Another significant landmark is Shipley Windmill, an old windmill with historical significance, once owned by author Hilaire Belloc. While Baynards Station is now a private residence, you can still admire its well-restored exterior from the boundaries.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Southwater area?
Yes, several attractions around Southwater are suitable for families. West Grinstead Station offers a nice spot for a picnic or coffee break with a family-friendly restaurant nearby. Shipley Windmill is also considered family-friendly, offering an interesting historical landmark. Additionally, The Milk Churn Coffee Shop is a great stop for families, known for its excellent coffee and delicious cheese straws.
Where can I find good coffee or a place to eat near the attractions?
For a coffee break or a meal, West Grinstead Station has a family restaurant and coffee place just off the track. Another excellent option is The Milk Churn Coffee Shop, located across a field from a fine gravel path, offering fantastic coffee and the chance to try their famous jumbo cheese straws. You can even grab a beer at the Firebird Brewery next door.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The Southwater area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, road cycling, and running. For example, there are easy hiking routes like the Southwater Country Park – Southwater Country Park Lake loop. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the Southwater Cricket Club – Southwater Country Park loop, while runners might explore the Bax Castle Pub – Southwater Country Park loop. Many of these routes pass by or are close to the mentioned attractions.
Are there easy walking or beginner hiking routes around Southwater?
Yes, Southwater offers several easy walking and beginner hiking routes. A popular choice is the Southwater Country Park – Southwater Country Park Lake loop, which is an easy 4.1 km hike. Another easy option is the Christ's Hospital School – Bax Castle Pub loop, which is 4.8 km. These routes are perfect for those looking for a gentle stroll or an introduction to hiking in the area.
Where can I spot wildlife near Southwater?
For wildlife spotting, the Knepp Wildland Tree Platform is an excellent location. The Knepp Estate is renowned for its rewilding program, where you might see free-roaming grazing animals like Tamworth Pigs, Longhorn Cattle, and deer. It's also a great place to spot raptors, various butterfly species, and even a newly reintroduced population of storks.
Are there viewpoints to enjoy scenic views in the area?
Absolutely. Shipley Windmill serves as a notable viewpoint, offering picturesque surroundings. Additionally, the Knepp Wildland Tree Platform provides elevated views over the rewilded landscape of the Knepp Estate, allowing you to observe the natural habitats and wildlife.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Southwater?
Visitors particularly enjoy the blend of history and nature. Many appreciate West Grinstead Station as a pleasant spot for a break or coffee. The historical significance and picturesque setting of Shipley Windmill are also highly rated. The unique rewilding efforts and wildlife viewing opportunities at the Knepp Wildland Tree Platform are also a big draw.
Is there parking available at or near the attractions?
Yes, parking is available at some of the attractions. For instance, West Grinstead Station is noted to have parking facilities, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. When planning your visit, it's always a good idea to check specific parking details for each location.
Are there any hidden gems or unique spots to discover?
Beyond the well-known sites, the Knepp Wildland Tree Platform offers a unique experience. It's part of the pioneering Knepp Estate rewilding project, providing a chance to observe a truly natural and evolving landscape with diverse wildlife. While Baynards Station is private, its impressive restoration, visible from the boundaries, makes it a fascinating, lesser-seen historical point of interest.
Can I find circular walks in the Southwater area?
Yes, the area around Southwater offers several circular walking routes. For example, the Southwater Country Park – Southwater Country Park Lake loop is an easy circular hike perfect for a leisurely outing. You can explore more options for circular walks within the various hiking guides for the region.
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