Swanbourne Lake
A serene lakeside walk near Arundel, offering scenic views of parkland, wildlife, and glimpses of Arundel Castle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Swanbourne Lake
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene lakeside walk near Arundel, offering scenic views of parkland, wildlife, and glimpses of Arundel Castle.
"A lovely afternoon walk around the lake, most of which is in the shade with a nice clear path."
Wear sturdy shoes
Paths can be bumpy & slippery, especially after rain. :athletic_shoe:
Check cafe hours
The cafe at the lake entrance is convenient for refreshments. :coffee:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Swanbourne Lake Circular Walk
Around Swanbourne Lake
A scenic 4.7km (2.9 mile) walk offering beautiful views of Arundel Park and the castle.
Boat Hire on the Lake
Swanbourne Lake
Enjoy a leisurely paddle on the water with boat hire available for a unique perspective.
Arundel Castle Views
Overlooking Swanbourne Lake
Catch glimpses of the magnificent Arundel Castle peeking through the treetops.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Accessibility and Footwear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy shoes
Paths can be bumpy & slippery, especially after rain. :athletic_shoe:
Check cafe hours
The cafe at the lake entrance is convenient for refreshments. :coffee:
Dog-friendly spot
A great place for a walk with your canine companions. :dog:
Free to visit
Enjoy the natural beauty without an admission fee. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy shoes
Paths can be bumpy & slippery, especially after rain. :athletic_shoe:
Check cafe hours
The cafe at the lake entrance is convenient for refreshments. :coffee:
Dog-friendly spot
A great place for a walk with your canine companions. :dog:
Free to visit
Enjoy the natural beauty without an admission fee. :moneywithwings:
Pushchair caution
Some paths are not ideal for pushchairs due to terrain. :stroller:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Swanbourne Lake is widely praised for its beautiful scenery, pleasant walking paths, and the charming setting near Arundel. Visitors enjoy the free access, the option for boat hire, and the overall tranquil atmosphere. Some minor drawbacks include the uneven path conditions in places and mixed reviews on the on-site cafe.
"A lovely afternoon walk around the lake most of which is in the shade.
Nice clear path.
Cafe at the end of the walk.
Public Toilets available the cafe will give you a 20p to use toilet if you are eating or drinking in the cafe."
Julie Smith
"Beautiful walk around the lake. Easy walking terrain. Cafe/tearoom nearby. Definitely going back again."
Lill R
"A very pleasant place to visit. You can walk around the lake. The paths are mostly flat, with no real steep inclines. There is a boating lake there, which is reasonably priced for 30 minutes hire. There is a cafe, ice cream stall and toilets on site. No car park, but if you are lucky there is limited on road parking. Arundel car parks are only a 10 minute walk away."
Anthony Bourner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a train from London to Arundel station, which is a short walk from Swanbourne Lake. Many visitors use Southern Railway for this journey.
There is limited on-road parking near the lake, but Arundel town car parks are a 10-minute walk away and offer more spaces.
Yes, Swanbourne Lake is easily accessible by public transport, with trains running to Arundel station.
The circular walk around the lake is highly recommended, offering diverse scenery and views of Arundel Castle.
Absolutely! It's a popular choice for a scenic day trip, offering nature, walks, and charming surroundings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Swanbourne Lake is free to visit, making it an accessible and budget-friendly destination.
Swanbourne Lake is a natural outdoor space and is generally accessible at all reasonable hours.
No booking is required as there is no admission fee for accessing the lake and its walking paths.
Visitors are advised not to feed the ducks, and while the paths are natural, they can be uneven.
Yes, Swanbourne Lake is a dog-friendly location, perfect for walks with your pets.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The circular walk is approximately 4.7km (2.9 miles) and offers lovely views of the park and castle. It's generally easy terrain but can be bumpy.
Yes, boat hire is available on Swanbourne Lake, offering a fun way to experience the water.
Public toilets are available near the cafe. You might get a discount on toilet use if you purchase from the cafe.
It's a great spot for families, though the paths might be challenging for pushchairs. Kids often enjoy feeding the ducks (though this is discouraged).
The lake is surrounded by nature and wildlife, with ducks being a common sight. 
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe and tearoom at the entrance of the lake, offering refreshments.
Besides the cafe, there's an ice cream stall. Arundel town also offers various dining options.
While not explicitly stated, the scenic surroundings make it a pleasant spot for a picnic.
Reviews on the cafe's food quality are mixed, with some finding it questionable.
Specific dietary options are not detailed in reviews, but it's advisable to check with the cafe directly.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the reflections on the water, the surrounding parkland, and the distant views of Arundel Castle.
Yes, drone footage showcases the beautiful landscape and the lake's setting within Arundel.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and potentially fewer people for unobstructed shots.
The entire circular walk provides various vantage points, especially where the castle is visible above the trees.
Yes, the natural setting is home to various birds, making it a good spot for wildlife photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids often love seeing the ducks and the open space to explore. There's a cafe and ice cream stall for treats, and the option for boat hire can add extra fun to the day. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Visiting on a weekday morning can ensure a more serene experience with fewer crowds. 🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Swanbourne Lake Circular Walk
While the walk is generally accessible, some sections are described as natural, meaning they can be bumpy, slippery, or cobbled, particularly after rainfall. This makes it less ideal for pushchairs or those with significant mobility challenges. However, for most visitors, it's a pleasant and manageable walk that offers beautiful views throughout.
Keep an eye out for the stunning glimpses of Arundel Castle peeking through the treetops, adding a touch of historical grandeur to the natural beauty. The walk is also known for its seasonal charm, with spring bringing out vibrant daffodils in the surrounding fields.
Boating and Lakeside Activities
While the primary focus is often on the walk and the natural beauty, the option for boating adds another layer to the visitor experience. It's a chance to relax, paddle at your own pace, and soak in the serene atmosphere of the lake.
It's worth noting that while the lake is a hub for activity, some reviews mention a slight cloudiness in sections of the water, which might be a point of curiosity for some visitors.
Arundel's Charm and Swanbourne Lake's Setting
+1The area around the lake is part of Arundel Park, offering rolling hills and woodland that contribute to the scenic beauty. This setting makes it a popular choice for day trips from London, providing a refreshing escape into the British countryside.
+1Visitors often praise the overall ambiance of the area, describing it as a lovely, serene place perfect for unwinding. The combination of natural beauty, historical context, and the convenience of being near a charming town makes Swanbourne Lake a well-rounded destination.
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