Top 5 Lakes around Patching
Best lakes around Patching offers a diverse range of aquatic environments, from historic ponds to expansive wetland centers. The village of Patching in West Sussex is home to Patching Pond, a historically significant body of water. The broader West Sussex area provides access to several other notable lakes, each with distinct features and activities. This region is ideal for those seeking walking routes, nature observation, or water-based recreation.
Best lakes around Patching
- The most popular lakes is Swanbourne Lake, a lake in a picturesque setting overlooked by Arundel Castle. Visitors can enjoy walks around the lake and its woodlands, wildlife spotting, and boat hire options between March and October.
- Another must-see spot is Patching Pond, a historic, man-made lake in West Sussex. It is a well-known fishing spot, particularly for carp, and is mentioned in the Domesday Book.
- Visitors also love WWT Arundel Wetland Centre, a nature reserve featuring lakes, reed beds, and channels. This center supports a wide array of wildlife, including various bird species, bats, and invertebrates.
- Patching is known for historic fishing ponds, scenic lakes, and wetland nature reserves. The area offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, catering to different interests from fishing to wildlife observation.
- The lakes around Patching are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 100 upvotes and over 30 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Swanbourne Lake
Highlight • Forest
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Swanbourne Lake
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Patching Pond
Highlight • Lake
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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NCN2 Cycle Path Along Widewater Lagoon
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WWT Arundel Wetland Centre
Highlight • Lake
Entry costs £10.88 per adult, £5.85 per child and £28.43 for a family (two adults, two children). For opening times and more information, visit: wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/arundel.
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Tips from the Community
No toilet, but they will give you 20p to use the public loo (if you're a customer)
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It is currently fenced off with goats grazing around it. The goats for sure are curious of visitors.
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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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Swanbourne Lake is part of Arundel park. It has a footpath to allow walk all around the lake and beyond.
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Beautiful lakeside lodge tea room in a gorgeous setting. Outside seating with nice friendly staff.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes near Patching are best for a scenic walk?
For picturesque walks, Swanbourne Lake near Arundel offers stunning views of Arundel Castle and a leisurely circular route suitable for all. Burton Mill Pond also provides tranquil walks within a protected natural environment in the South Downs National Park.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Patching?
Yes, Swanbourne Lake is highly recommended for families, with opportunities to feed swans and ducks, and boat hire available between March and October. The circular route around the lake is easy and suitable for pushchairs. The WWT Arundel Wetland Centre also offers a family-friendly experience with diverse wildlife.
Which lakes are known for their historical significance?
Patching Pond is a historic, man-made lake mentioned in the Domesday Book. It's particularly notable for its carp fishing, having been stocked with carp in the 1960s, with some of these original fish still present.
What water activities are available at lakes near Patching?
Tilgate Lake in Crawley is a hub for water activities, offering archery, canoeing, fishing, kayaking, mountain biking, raft building, rowing, sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, and open water swimming. At Swanbourne Lake, you can hire a rowing boat between March and October.
Are there good fishing spots among the lakes near Patching?
Patching Pond is a well-known carp fishing spot, famous for its historic stock of fish. Tilgate Lake also offers fishing opportunities.
Which lakes are best for birdwatching or nature enthusiasts?
Burton Mill Pond, part of the Burton Mill and Chingford Ponds Local Nature Reserve, is excellent for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers due to its important wetland habitats and diverse birdlife. WWT Arundel Wetland Centre is also a prime location for spotting myriad species of wildlife, including various birds, bats, and insects.
Can I go cycling near the lakes around Patching?
Yes, there are cycling opportunities. The NCN2 Cycle Path along Widewater Lagoon offers a great tarmac route. For more cycling options, you can explore various routes in the area, including those listed in the Cycling around Patching and Traffic-free bike rides around Patching guides.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Patching?
The warmer months, particularly between March and October, are ideal for activities like boat hire at Swanbourne Lake. However, the natural beauty and wildlife of lakes like Burton Mill Pond and WWT Arundel Wetland Centre can be enjoyed year-round, with different seasonal highlights.
Are there walking or running trails near these lakes?
Many lakes offer pleasant walking paths, such as the easy circular route around Swanbourne Lake. For more extensive options, you can find various running trails in the area by checking the Running Trails around Patching guide.
Where can I find cafes or pubs near the lakes?
Near Swanbourne Lake, you'll find Swanbourne Lodge Tearooms, which offers a range of food and drink. The broader West Sussex area around Patching also has various pubs and cafes in nearby villages.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting near Patching's lakes?
Yes, Swanbourne Lake is rich with wildlife, and the WWT Arundel Wetland Centre is a dedicated nature reserve supporting myriad species including bats, grass snakes, kingfishers, and various water birds. Burton Mill Pond is also recognized for its important wetland habitats and diverse birdlife.
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