Southwater Country Park
A vibrant country park with dinosaur trails, adventure playgrounds, and watersports on a scenic lake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Southwater Country Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant country park with dinosaur trails, adventure playgrounds, and watersports on a scenic lake.
"Great place for kids with dinosaur trails and a huge sandpit!"
🎯 Pack for Dinosaur Fun
Bring buckets and spades for the sandpit and wear comfy shoes for exploring the trails!
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Entry to the park is free, but there's a charge for parking. It's generally considered affordable.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dinosaur Island Trail
Various locations within the park
Follow dinosaur footprints to discover prehistoric fun, perfect for little explorers.
Cripplegate Lake
Central lake
Enjoy watersports like paddleboarding and kayaking, or spot local wildlife on a peaceful stroll.
Adventure Playgrounds
Near the cafe
Fantastic play areas with a huge sandpit, offering hours of entertainment for children of all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dinosaur Adventures & Lakeside Fun
Timing Your Visit for Peace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Pack for Dinosaur Fun
Bring buckets and spades for the sandpit and wear comfy shoes for exploring the trails! 
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Entry to the park is free, but there's a charge for parking. It's generally considered affordable.
🛶 Watersports Rentals
Rent paddleboards, kayaks, and boats on the lake for a fun-filled day on the water.
☕ Cafe & Picnic Spots
Enjoy treats at the cafe or bring a picnic to use in designated barbecue areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Pack for Dinosaur Fun
Bring buckets and spades for the sandpit and wear comfy shoes for exploring the trails!
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Entry to the park is free, but there's a charge for parking. It's generally considered affordable.
🛶 Watersports Rentals
Rent paddleboards, kayaks, and boats on the lake for a fun-filled day on the water.
☕ Cafe & Picnic Spots
Enjoy treats at the cafe or bring a picnic to use in designated barbecue areas.
🐾 Wildlife Watching
Keep an eye out for ducks and other local wildlife around Cripplegate Lake.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Southwater Country Park for its excellent family-friendly facilities, particularly the dinosaur trail and playgrounds. The lake offers enjoyable watersports and wildlife spotting opportunities, complemented by a pleasant cafe and picnic areas. While generally well-regarded, it can get busy during peak times.
"My partner and I definitely loved this walk it was peaceful. There were dinosaur trails for the kids, a small cafe and a great outdoor skating park. There’s also playgrounds for children and the walking trail is easy to follow
There was a lake that had a variety of wildlife and we did see some people fishing there"
Charize Dayao
"A very nice country park. Was pretty busy. Has a lovely cafe and clean tpilets and surroundings. A nice walk, a lot of picnic and a barbecue area, a small 'beach', and also a lot of activities fro children."
CGe0
"Great place to visit. My toddlers had a few hours of fun here, although would be quite easy to spend an extra few hours on top of that further exploring.
Cute little beach area, fantastic play area with a huge sandpit area and great little work. We didn't get the opportunity to try the little onside cafe as my two where exhausted, but it's on the list for our next visit. We didn't get many pictures this time round due to all the fun we had exploring.
Definitely worth checking out."
Stacey Parker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Southwater Country Park is located in Horsham, West Sussex. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site (charges apply). Public transport options might involve local bus routes to Southwater village, followed by a short walk.
Yes, there is parking available at Southwater Country Park. While the park itself is free to enter, there is a charge for parking, which is generally considered affordable.
Cycling is a great way to reach the park, especially if you're coming from nearby areas. There are likely cycle racks available, though specific details may vary.
The park features level paths, making it generally accessible for wheelchair users and those with prams. The description mentions 'level paths for easy strolls'.
Southwater Country Park is generally open year-round during daylight hours. Specific facilities like the cafe may have their own operating times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Southwater Country Park is free to enter. The main cost to consider is for parking.
You do not need to book tickets to enter Southwater Country Park as it is a public park and free to access.
Yes, the park occasionally hosts special events, such as dinosaur-themed days with activities and trails. Keep an eye on local listings for upcoming events.
While not explicitly stated in the provided content, most country parks allow dogs on leads. It's always best to check local signage upon arrival.
Yes, there is a cafe at Southwater Country Park that serves food and drinks. It's a popular spot for visitors. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Children will love the dinosaur trails, adventure playgrounds with a large sandpit, and the opportunity to paddle or play near the lake.
Absolutely! Cripplegate Lake is a hub for watersports, with rentals available for paddleboards, kayaks, and boats.
Yes, the park offers pleasant walking trails around the lake and through its natural areas. The paths are generally level and easy to follow.
The lake is home to various bird species, including ducks and ducklings. It's a lovely spot for nature observation.
Yes, Southwater Country Park has areas designated for picnics and barbecues, making it a great spot for a family outing.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There's a cafe on-site offering tasty food and treats, including popular items like Pimms during events. Visitors can also bring their own picnics. +1
Yes, there are barbecue areas available for visitors to use, making it a perfect spot for an outdoor meal.
Specific dietary options at the cafe are not detailed, but it's common for park cafes to offer a range of choices. It's best to inquire directly.
Reviews suggest the cafe offers 'yummy treats' and 'tasty food', implying reasonable pricing for a park cafe.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks, especially for picnics.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the scenic lake views, especially during sunrise or sunset. The dinosaur trail offers fun, quirky shots, and the playgrounds are great for candid family moments.
One user shared drone footage of the beautiful lake views, suggesting it's a good location for aerial photography, provided you adhere to any local drone regulations.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light for landscape and portrait photography. Early mornings can also be serene and less crowded.
The lake itself, the dinosaur island features, and the well-equipped playgrounds are popular subjects for photos.
Yes, the lake is a good spot for photographing ducks and other birdlife. Remember to maintain a respectful distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+3Consider renting paddleboards or kayaks on the lake for some active fun, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the level paths. The cafe offers treats, and there are plenty of picnic spots. Remember to pack those buckets and spades for maximum sandpit enjoyment!
🚶♀️ Nature Lovers & Walkers
The park's description as a 'wildlife area' promises opportunities to observe local fauna. While it can get busy, visiting on a weekday morning can provide a more serene experience. The easy terrain makes it accessible for all, allowing you to simply enjoy the fresh air and scenic views without strenuous effort.
🚣♀️ Watersports Enthusiasts
+1 The lake is described as being reclaimed for canoeing and sailing, indicating it's well-suited for these activities. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, the lake offers a great environment to practice or simply have fun. It's a key feature that draws many visitors looking for active recreation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Family Fun at Southwater Country Park
+3Beyond the play areas, the park offers a lake for watersports like paddleboarding and kayaking, providing active fun for older children and adults. The level paths make it easy for families with strollers to navigate, and the presence of a cafe and picnic areas ensures convenience.
Pro-tip for families: Remember to pack buckets and spades, as the sandpit is a major attraction. Visiting on a weekday morning can help avoid the biggest crowds, allowing children more freedom to explore and play.
Exploring the Waters of Cripplegate Lake
+1The lake is also a haven for local wildlife, with ducks and ducklings frequently spotted. A peaceful stroll around the lake offers opportunities for nature observation and photography.
The presence of a small 'beach' area also adds to the lakeside appeal, offering a spot to relax by the water. For those interested in fishing, the reviews mention seeing people fish in the lake, suggesting it's a permitted activity. Always ensure you have the necessary permits if you plan to fish.
A Peaceful Retreat: Walks and Wildlife
The park is noted for its wildlife area, particularly around Cripplegate Lake. Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting various species, including ducks and their young.
The serene atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing walk, whether you're alone or with companions. While it's a great place for a quiet walk, it's also worth noting that the park can become busy, especially during peak times. For the most peaceful experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours, such as weekday mornings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit