The best walks and hikes around Bewl Water
4.5
(553)
3,868
hikers
235
hikes
Hikes around Bewl Water explore the largest reservoir in South East England. The area is part of the High Weald National Landscape and is characterized by a mix of shoreline paths, dense woodlands, and open meadows. Most routes are relatively flat, with some gentle inclines through the forested sections, making it a suitable location for family friendly walks.
Best hiking trails around Bewl Water
- The most popular hiking route is Bewl Water loop — High Weald, a 13.6 mile (21.9 km) trail that takes about 5 hours 45 minutes to complete. This is the main circular walk that follows the reservoir's shoreline.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Scotney Castle – Bewl Water loop from Lamberhurst, a moderate 8.1 mile (13.1 km) path. The route combines sections of the reservoir path with trails leading toward the nearby Scotney Castle.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Bewl Water – Bewl Water loop from Scotney Castle, a 3.7 mile (6.0 km) trail leading through woodlands and along the water, often completed in about 1 hour 35 minutes.
- Hiking around Bewl Water is defined by its expansive reservoir views, paths through dense woodlands, and trails across open meadows. The network of routes offers options for different ability levels, from short, easy walks to the full reservoir circuit.
- The routes in Bewl Water are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 500 reviews. More than 3,900 hikers have used komoot to explore Bewl Water's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4.8
(57)
467
hikers
21.9km
05:46
190m
190m
Embark on the challenging Bewl Water loop, a difficult hike that traces the perimeter of the expansive reservoir. This 13.6-mile (21.9 km) route will lead you through a varied landscape of woodland tracks, open fields, and quiet country lanes, offering a true taste of the High Weald's rolling hills and tranquil waterside. You will gain 608 feet (185 metres) in elevation, with an estimated duration of 5 hours and 46 minutes. Keep an eye out for the specific 'View of the Lake in High Weald National Landscape' highlight, which provides expansive vistas across the water.
Planning your visit, be aware that the paths can become quite muddy or
5.0
(1)
96
hikers
6.02km
01:34
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.5
(8)
20
hikers
13.0km
03:32
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(11)
133
hikers
9.17km
02:23
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
29
hikers
15.1km
04:04
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Bewl Water is a reservoir and the largest body of water in south-east England. It was completed in 1975 to increase the water supply capacity in line with the growing demand of the area. The 12.5 mile (20 km) shoreline trail is a great walk, and this bench is the perfect place for a rest.
0
0
Always a lovely place to walk around, can be muddy in some spots depending on the time of the year
0
0
After the Hussey family gave up the house and the last resident of the family died, the house was initially converted into 6 apartments. Margaret Thatcher lived in one of them during her time as Prime Minister. Here she was "easier to protect" than in London. Now everything has been returned to the way it was before the conversion 😉
3
0
On the lower part of the hill, at the moat, is Scotney Old Castle, built on an island in the 14th century. Further up the hill sits Scotney New Castle, built between 1843 and 1843 when the original property started to crumble. The estate is now in the care of the National Trust. For further details see their website nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/scotney-castle
0
0
This Victorian mansion was built in 1837. Constructed from sandstone quarried from the grounds of the Old Castle, its privileged position offers splendid views of the castle and the estate. As a curiosity, during Margaret Thatcher's time as Prime Minister, she had an apartment in this building. Currently, it is owned by the National Trust, and you can find more information, plan your visit, and check the opening times at: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/scotney-castle
0
0
The café at the visitor centre is a good place for a pre- or post-run drink, snack or meal. Sit out on the large terrace and enjoy the view.
0
0
A lovely spot to sit for a rest and bath in the tranquility of nature.
0
0
Parking is £7 per car for a full day. No other options for shorter periods. Cafe, toilets, bike hire, laser tag and water sport activities on site. Plenty of space to park on weekends. Great views of the reservoir and access to walking trails.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the full circular walk around Bewl Water?
The main trail that circumnavigates the entire reservoir is approximately 12.5 to 13 miles (about 21 km). For a steady pace, you should plan for this walk to take around six hours to complete. It covers varied terrain along the shoreline and through woodlands.
Are there any good family-friendly or pram-friendly walks?
Yes, the area is great for families. Many of the paths on the northern shore are wide and surfaced, making them suitable for pushchairs. For a shorter, engaging walk, consider the Bug Hotel – Bewl Water loop from Scotney Castle. The main visitor area also has an adventure playground for children.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Dogs are welcome at Bewl Water, but they must be kept on a lead at all times to protect the area's wildlife and livestock in adjacent fields. Please be sure to clean up after your dog and use the designated bins.
What is the best time of year to hike at Bewl Water?
Bewl Water offers a unique experience year-round. Spring is particularly beautiful when the woodlands are filled with bluebells and wild garlic. Autumn provides stunning colours across the reservoir, while summer is perfect for enjoying the open water views. The main paths are accessible throughout the year.
Is there parking available at Bewl Water?
Yes, there is a main car park at the Bewl Water visitor centre. Be aware that parking charges typically apply. Free parking in the surrounding area is extremely limited, so using the official car park is the most convenient option.
Are there any circular walks that are shorter than the full loop?
Absolutely. You don't have to complete the full 13-mile circuit. A great option for a shorter but scenic circular route is the Bewl Water – Bewl Water loop from Ticehurst, which is just over 5.5 miles (9 km) and offers a good mix of woodland and shoreline paths.
Can I get to Bewl Water using public transport?
Getting to Bewl Water by public transport can be challenging as there are no direct bus or train services to the reservoir itself. The nearest train station is in Wadhurst, which is several miles away. From there, you would need to take a taxi to reach the main visitor centre.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
The reservoir and its surrounding woodlands are a haven for wildlife. It's a designated nature reserve with hundreds of protected species. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of waterfowl, and the woodlands are home to diverse flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for different bird species on the water and listen for them in the trees as you walk.
Are there any cafes or pubs on the walking routes?
The Waterfront Café at the main visitor centre offers food and drinks with excellent views across the reservoir. For a pub stop, you would typically need to detour into one of the nearby villages like Lamberhurst or Ticehurst. Some walking routes pass close to these villages.
How many hiking trails are there around Bewl Water?
There are over 200 hiking routes to explore around Bewl Water on komoot. These range from short, easy strolls along the shore to more challenging, longer-distance treks that connect to the wider High Weald National Landscape, offering options for all fitness levels.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the area?
The trails around Bewl Water are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful mix of scenery from open water to dense woodland, and the peaceful atmosphere. The variety of routes suitable for different abilities is also a frequently mentioned highlight.
Most popular routes around Bewl Water
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
Nearby adventure guides
Natural areas to explore nearby
Get ready to conquer new peaks
Sign up for Free