Best attractions and places to see around Turners Hill, a village in West Sussex, England, are situated on a steep ridge of the Sussex Weald, offering extensive views of both the North and South Downs. The area is characterized by its natural landscape, including parts of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and historic buildings dating back to the 16th century. Visitors can explore a variety of sites, from natural features like reservoirs to historical landmarks and trails.
…Last updated: April 24, 2026
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There is a local car park at the Activity Centre leading straight onto the walk around the reservoir. Currently the foot path is very wet and muddy in places but would be a nice walk spring/summer/ autumn. There are a few benches around the reservoir for stopping and taking in the view.
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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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Britain's oldest working windmill, built in 1665 by Thomas Budgen and now a Grade I-listed building.
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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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This is the location of the only (single) public toilet on this route, and there’s also a kiosk for hot and cold drinks and ice creams. Long queues for both.
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Outwood Windmill is a Grade I listed post mill located in Outwood, Surrey, England. It was built in 1665 by Thomas Budgen, a miller from Nutfield in Surrey, and is Britain’s oldest working windmill. The mill is a post mill with patent shutters and has four sails. The whole body, weighing around 25 tons, rotates on a central post made of a single enormous oak tree, to bring the mill round into the wind. The mill is still operational and grinds corn when the wind is adequate.
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Also a Local Nature Reserve, Ardingly Reservoir was built in the 1970s. It is a wildlife haven with Ospreys even seen here. There are two bird hides on this eastern shore while the south eastern end is a hive of watersports activity.
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The area around Turners Hill is rich in natural beauty. You can visit Ardingly Reservoir, a wildlife haven perfect for walks and birdwatching, or Tilgate Lake, a popular spot for watersports and nature. Much of the surrounding landscape is part of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering extensive views from the village itself. Other notable natural sites include Ashdown Forest, Borde Hill Garden, Nymans Garden, and Wakehurst Place.
Yes, Turners Hill and its surroundings boast several historical attractions. Don't miss Outwood Windmill, Britain's oldest working windmill, built in 1665. The village itself has a Conservation Area with many buildings dating back to the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries. Other historical points of interest include St Leonard's Church, Worth Abbey, and the nearby Jacobean almshouse, Sackville College.
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking and cycling along the Forest Way Country Park, a 10-mile traffic-free path. For more specific routes, there are numerous easy hikes, road cycling routes, and mountain biking trails available around Turners Hill.
Absolutely! Many attractions are suitable for families. Ardingly Reservoir and Tilgate Lake offer pleasant walks and activities. The Forest Way Country Park is great for family cycling or walks. Tulleys Farm is a popular destination with various seasonal events like the Tulip Fest and Christmas activities. The Bluebell Railway also offers a fun experience with historic steam trains.
Turners Hill itself stands on a steep ridge of the Sussex Weald, offering extensive views of both the North and South Downs. For a specific cycling climb with views, consider the Turner's Hill South Climb. Additionally, areas within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty provide numerous picturesque spots.
The best time to visit largely depends on your interests. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the gardens like Borde Hill and Nymans, and for outdoor activities such as walking and cycling. Tulleys Farm hosts seasonal events like the Tulip Fest in spring and Shocktober Fest in autumn. The Bluebell Railway operates year-round, with special events during holidays. For general outdoor exploration, the milder months offer pleasant conditions.
Yes, the area is great for wildlife enthusiasts. Ardingly Reservoir is a designated Local Nature Reserve with bird hides, where Ospreys have even been spotted. The Forest Way Country Park is home to diverse wildlife including swallows, badgers, deer, and foxes. Ashdown Forest is also a significant natural area known for its heathland and woodlands, providing habitats for various species.
Visitors frequently appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the area, particularly the walks around places like Ardingly Reservoir. The historical significance of sites like Outwood Windmill also draws interest. The traffic-free paths of the Forest Way Country Park are popular for leisurely cycling and walking, and the village's charm and extensive views are often highlighted.
Tulleys Farm is well-known for its unique seasonal events throughout the year. These include the Tulleys Tulip Fest in spring, the popular Shocktober Fest around Halloween, and various Christmas events. These provide a lively and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
The region is home to several stunning gardens. You can explore Borde Hill Garden, known for its historic formal gardens, woodlands, and lakes. Nymans Garden, a National Trust property in Handcross, offers beautiful horticultural displays. Sheffield Park and Garden, another National Trust site, is renowned for its collections. Additionally, Wakehurst Place, leased by Kew, is a wild botanic garden spanning over 500 acres.
Cycling is a popular activity around Turners Hill. The Forest Way Country Park provides a 10-mile traffic-free path ideal for leisurely rides. For more challenging routes, there are numerous road cycling routes and mountain biking trails. Deers Leap Park also offers dedicated mountain biking opportunities.


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