Attractions and Places To See around Colgate - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Colgate include a variety of natural landscapes and historical sites. The area features several lakes and reservoirs, offering opportunities for watersports and wildlife observation. Historical landmarks, such as old mills and former railway stations, provide insight into the region's past. This diverse environment makes Colgate a destination for exploring both nature and heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Colgate
- The most popular attractions is Ardingly Reservoir, a lake that is…
Last updated: June 22, 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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Turner's Hill South Climb
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
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Ouse Valley Viaduct
Highlight (Segment) • Monument
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Tilgate Lake
Highlight • Viewpoint
Human history here …
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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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The Sussex Ouse Valley Way is a 42-mile (68 km) long-distance footpath that basically follows the course of the River Ouse from its source to the sea. It starts from Lower Beeding near Horsham to the coast at Seaford. It is generally regarded as an easy footpath, as most of the route is flat riverside walking. It is a very scenic journey as it goes through beautiful quintessential English countryside for most of its journey. Here by Upper-Ryelands Bridge on Border Hill Lane, you come across the fantastic structure of the Ouse Valley Viaduct that stretches out across you in all its magnificent structural glory, simply a stunning view.
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Longer if you are travelling from the north towards Ardingly but gradual enough to get into a decent rhythm apart from the traffic at peak times.
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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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Was a railway station on the Steyning Line which served the village of West Grinstead. It had a goods yard with a cattle loading bay and facilities for handling horse boxes. With the hunt kennels and national stud based in the area, the station saw substantial horse traffic The station closed as a result of the Beeching Axe in 1966 and now forms part of the Downs Link footpath.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural attractions can I find around Colgate?
The Colgate area is rich in natural features, particularly lakes and reservoirs. You can visit Ardingly Reservoir, which is also a Local Nature Reserve and a haven for wildlife, including Ospreys. It's popular for watersports and has bird hides. Another significant natural spot is Tilgate Lake, the largest of three lakes in Tilgate Park, offering various watersports and outdoor activities.
Are there any historical sites to explore near Colgate?
Yes, the area offers several historical sites. West Grinstead Station is a notable historical site where you can enjoy a picnic or grab a coffee. Another interesting historical landmark is Ifield Mill, a 19th-century weatherboarded watermill with a large lake nearby, showcasing the ancient invention of using water power.
What are some family-friendly activities around Colgate?
Many attractions around Colgate are suitable for families. Ardingly Reservoir is a great spot for a family walk, with easy access from a car park and opportunities for watersports. Tilgate Lake also offers a wide range of family-friendly outdoor activities, including archery, canoeing, and mountain biking. Historical sites like West Grinstead Station and Ifield Mill provide educational and engaging experiences for all ages.
Where can I find good viewpoints or scenic spots in the area?
For scenic views, consider visiting Turner's Hill South Climb. While known as a climb on a busy road, it offers a well-known vantage point leading up to the village of Turners Hill. Additionally, the areas around Ardingly Reservoir and Tilgate Lake provide beautiful natural vistas, especially for birdwatching and enjoying the water.
Are there hiking trails near these attractions?
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities around Colgate. You can find easy hikes like the "Blindman's Wood loop from Colgate" or various loops around St Leonard's Forest. For more options, explore the easy hikes around Colgate guide.
What other outdoor activities are available besides hiking?
Beyond hiking, the Colgate area is excellent for other outdoor pursuits. Ardingly Reservoir and Tilgate Lake are popular for watersports like canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding. You can also find routes for gravel biking, such as those along the Downs Link Trail. Check out the gravel biking guide for Colgate for more details.
Can I go running near the attractions?
Absolutely! The area around Colgate offers several running trails. You can find moderate routes like the "St Leonard's Forest loop" or loops around Buchan Park Lake. For a comprehensive list of running options, refer to the running trails around Colgate guide.
Are there places to eat or have a coffee near the attractions?
Yes, you can find places to refresh yourself. Near West Grinstead Station, there's a coffee place and a "family restaurant" called The Orchard Restaurant, which has a large garden. It's a great spot for a picnic or a coffee break during your visit.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Colgate?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical interest. The tranquil walks around reservoirs like Ardingly Reservoir, the opportunities for watersports at Tilgate Lake, and the charm of historical sites like West Grinstead Station are frequently highlighted. The ease of access and the chance to enjoy nature are also highly valued.
Is there parking available at the attractions?
Yes, parking is available at some key locations. For instance, Ardingly Reservoir has a car park that makes access easy for visitors. When planning your trip, it's always a good idea to check specific highlight pages for detailed parking information.
Are the trails around Colgate suitable for dogs?
Many of the natural areas and trails around Colgate are popular with dog walkers. For example, the walk around Ardingly Reservoir is noted for being dog-friendly, with many opportunities to meet other dog owners. Always ensure dogs are kept under control and follow local guidelines for pet access.
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