Top 20 Lakes around Ardingly
Lakes around Ardingly are characterized by significant bodies of water, providing both essential resources and recreational opportunities. The area features prominent freshwater lakes such as Ardingly Reservoir, which serves as a water supply and a designated nature reserve. These lakes are set amidst natural landscapes, offering diverse environments for outdoor activities. The region's waterways contribute to its ecological value and provide habitats for various wildlife.
Best lakes around Ardingly
- The most popular lakes is Ardingly Reservoir, a lake that…
Last updated: August 8, 2026
Ardingly Reservoir
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Tilgate Lake
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Ifield Mill
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Sheffield Park and Garden Lakes
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Weir Wood Reservoir Local Nature Reserve
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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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From here, whichever route you choose it will involve a climb. Pick wisely
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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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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 are the main lakes to visit around Ardingly?
The primary lakes in the Ardingly area include Ardingly Reservoir, known for its diverse activities and nature, and Balcombe Lake, which offers a more secluded fishing experience. Other notable spots are Tilgate Lake, a popular watersports center, and Ifield Mill, a historical site with an adjacent lake.
What outdoor activities can I do at Ardingly Reservoir?
Ardingly Reservoir offers a wide range of activities. You can enjoy watersports like windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and dinghy sailing at the Ardingly Activity Centre. It's also a popular spot for fishing, walking, cycling, and horse riding on its public footpaths and bridleways. Birdwatching is also popular, with two bird hides available.
Are there good fishing spots in the Ardingly area?
Yes, the Ardingly area is excellent for fishing. Ardingly Reservoir is known for predator fishing (pike, carp) and coarse fishing (bream, tench, rudd, roach). Balcombe Lake is particularly renowned as a premium carp lake, also holding large quantities of tench, bream, roach, rudd, and pike in a more secluded setting.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities around Ardingly?
Many lakes in the area are suitable for families. Ardingly Reservoir offers amenities like parking, toilets, picnic benches, and a café, making it ideal for a family day out with walking and watersports. Tilgate Lake in Tilgate Park is also very family-friendly with various activities. Sheffield Park and Garden Lakes provide beautiful landscaped gardens for family strolls.
Where can I go for a walk or hike near the lakes?
Public footpaths and bridleways are accessible along the north, south, and east shores of Ardingly Reservoir, making it ideal for walking. For more structured routes, you can find easy hikes around the area, including a 6 km loop around Ardingly Reservoir. Explore more options in the Easy hikes around Ardingly guide.
Are there historical sites related to the lakes in the Ardingly area?
Yes, Ifield Mill is a notable historical site featuring a 19th-century weatherboarded watermill and an adjacent lake, showcasing the historical use of water power. Tilgate Lake also has a rich history, dating back to the Mesolithic period and later serving as a royal deer park.
What wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
Ardingly Reservoir is a designated nature reserve and a wildlife haven. Birdwatchers can spot kingfishers, great crested grebes, barn owls, and even ospreys. The area also supports various bat species, dormice, and glow worms.
Is Ardingly Reservoir suitable for dog walking?
Yes, Ardingly Reservoir is a popular spot for dog walkers, with many public footpaths and bridleways available around its shores. Remember to keep dogs under control and be mindful of wildlife and other visitors.
Are there cafes or amenities available at the lakes?
At Ardingly Reservoir, you can find refreshments at the Black Hut café. There are also toilets, parking, and picnic benches available, making it convenient for visitors.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Ardingly?
The lakes around Ardingly offer beauty year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for watersports and enjoying the lush greenery and wildlife. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, particularly around Sheffield Park and Garden Lakes. Winter walks can be peaceful, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
How does Ardingly Reservoir compare to Weir Wood Reservoir for walks?
Ardingly Reservoir offers public footpaths and bridleways around its shores, providing varied terrain for walks. Weir Wood Reservoir Local Nature Reserve is also a significant area for walking and birdwatching, known for its open water and bird populations. Both offer scenic routes, but Weir Wood's western end is home to a sailing club, while Ardingly has a broader range of watersports at its activity centre.
Can I find routes for running or cycling near the lakes?
Yes, the area around Ardingly offers various routes for running and cycling. For running, you can find moderate trails like the Ardingly Activity Centre loop around Ardingly Reservoir. Road cycling routes, such as the Ardingly Village to Lindfield High Street loop, are also available. You can explore more options in the Running Trails around Ardingly and Road Cycling Routes around Ardingly guides.
Is there parking available at Ardingly Reservoir?
Yes, parking is available at Ardingly Reservoir, making access easy for visitors. For Balcombe Lake, parking is available near Woodward's Farm, accessible by road to the dam area.
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