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Horsham

Ashington

Top 5 Lakes around Ashington

Best lakes around Ashington offer diverse natural settings, primarily in West Sussex, providing opportunities for outdoor activities. The region is characterized by a mix of man-made and natural water bodies, many of which are integrated into country parks or rewilding estates. These lakes are popular for activities such as walking, wildlife observation, and angling, contributing to the area's appeal for nature enthusiasts. Many locations feature improved pathways and facilities, enhancing accessibility for visitors.

Best lakes around Ashington

  • The most popular…

Last updated: June 28, 2026

Southwater Country Park

Highlight • Trail

Large café with plenty of outside seating, which has replaced the old car park. The café overlooks Cripplegate Lake and is a good place to meet and start or end a ride.

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Knepp Estate Lake

Highlight • Natural

Since 2001, the Knepp Estate has been a rewilding project. Moving from intensive farming to process which restore and regenerate nature, such as free roaming cattle and deer and wetland …

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Southwater Lake

Highlight • Viewpoint

A large country park with three lakes, formed out of the old Southwater brickpits when they fell out of use in the 1980s. The three lakes are popular for canoeing, …

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Patching Pond

Highlight • Lake

A historic, man-made lake in West Sussex, mentioned in the Domesday Book.
It was stocked with carp in the 1960s by Donald Leney, and a number of these original fish …

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Cafe by the Pond

Highlight • Rest Area

Lovely place to stop for a quick break, toilets, drinks and food available here

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Popular around Ashington

Cycling around Ashington

Road Cycling Routes around Ashington

Hiking around Ashington

MTB Trails around Ashington

Gravel biking around Ashington

Running Trails around Ashington

Tips from the Community

Katerina
October 25, 2025, Patching Pond

It is currently fenced off with goats grazing around it. The goats for sure are curious of visitors.

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Katerina
October 25, 2025, Patching Pond

A historic, man-made lake in West Sussex, mentioned in the Domesday Book. It was stocked with carp in the 1960s by Donald Leney, and a number of these original fish are still present. It is a well-known fishing spot with a mix of carp, including the historic Leney fish and more recent additions.

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51m
September 22, 2024, Southwater Country Park

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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DavidC
September 18, 2024, Southwater Country Park

Good place for a bit of cake on the Downs Link.

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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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KP
August 18, 2023, Cafe by the Pond

lovely stop for lunch

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Cav
April 14, 2023, Cafe by the Pond

A cafe by the pond will keep you fed and watered or just take in the peaceful atmosphere.

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Natalie
December 1, 2022, Knepp Estate Lake

Since 2001, the Knepp Estate has been a rewilding project. Moving from intensive farming to process which restore and regenerate nature, such as free roaming cattle and deer and wetland creation. The project has been a huge success for nature with rare species such as nightingales, peregrine falcons and turtle doves now resident. It is a beautiful place to hike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular lakes around Ashington for outdoor activities?

The region around Ashington, primarily in West Sussex, offers several popular lakes. Knepp Estate Lake is highly regarded for its rewilding project and hiking opportunities. Southwater Country Park, featuring Cripplegate Lake, is popular for its spacious environment and facilities. Additionally, Southwater Lake is known for canoeing, sailing, and fishing.

Are there family-friendly lakes near Ashington?

Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Southwater Country Park and Southwater Lake are both considered family-friendly, offering various activities and amenities. Knepp Estate Lake also provides a beautiful natural setting for family hikes.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?

The lakes around Ashington offer diverse natural settings. You can find rewilding estates like the Knepp Estate Lake, which is home to rare species and abundant wildlife. Other locations feature forests, grasslands, and the lakes themselves, often formed from old brickpits, providing habitats for various bird species and aquatic life.

What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?

Beyond walking around the lakes, the area offers various outdoor activities. You can find excellent opportunities for gravel biking, running, and cycling. For detailed routes, explore the Gravel biking around Ashington, Running Trails around Ashington, and Cycling around Ashington guides.

Are there cafes or facilities available at the lakes?

Yes, some lakes offer convenient facilities. Southwater Country Park has a large cafe overlooking Cripplegate Lake, providing a great spot for a break. There's also a dedicated Cafe by the Pond, offering food, drinks, and toilets in a peaceful setting.

Can I go fishing at the lakes near Ashington?

Fishing is a popular activity at several lakes. Southwater Lake is designated for specific activities including fishing. Additionally, the Queen Elizabeth II Lake in Ashington, Northumberland, is well-stocked with various fish species, and the Goose Green Complex near Ashington, West Sussex, features multiple lakes designed for pleasure and match fishing.

What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Ashington?

The lakes can be enjoyed year-round, but warmer months are ideal for pleasure fishing and outdoor activities. Spring and summer offer lush scenery and active wildlife, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Some locations, like the Goose Green lakes, have undergone extensive renovation, including improved pathways, making them accessible in various seasons.

Are there any historic lakes in the area?

Yes, the region features historic water bodies. Patching Pond is a notable historic, man-made lake in West Sussex, mentioned in the Domesday Book. It is also a well-known fishing spot, stocked with carp since the 1960s.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Ashington?

Visitors appreciate the diverse natural settings, opportunities for wildlife observation, and the tranquil environment. The rewilding efforts at places like Knepp Estate Lake are particularly valued for attracting rare species. The convenience of facilities like cafes and well-maintained pathways also enhances the visitor experience.

Are there accessible walking trails around the lakes?

Many locations have improved pathways designed to enhance accessibility. For instance, the Goose Green lakes near Ashington, West Sussex, have undergone renovations to improve pathways, making them more accessible for visitors to enjoy the open woodland environment.

Can I bring my dog to the lakes?

While specific dog-friendly policies vary by location, many country parks and natural areas around lakes generally welcome dogs on leads. It's always recommended to check the specific rules for each park or estate before your visit to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

Where can I find parking and public transport options for the lakes?

Parking is typically available at country parks such as Southwater Country Park. For specific public transport options, it's best to check local transport services for routes to the larger country parks or villages near the lakes, as direct access may vary.

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Still not found your perfect lake around Ashington? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.

ColgateLower BeedingCowfoldNuthurstRusperWarnhamSouthwaterNorth HorshamBillingshurstBroadbridge HeathRudgwickShermanburyHenfieldShipleyWest GrinsteadPulboroughStorrington And SullingtonItchingfieldSlinfoldWistonWest ChiltingtonParhamWoodmancoteColdwalthamAmberleyWashingtonThakehamUpper BeedingSteyning

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