Bewl Water – an active day out for families

Bewl Water is a scenic reservoir located between the villages of Lamberhurst, Wadhurst and Ticehurst in East Sussex. Not only is the 800-acre site set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it’s the perfect spot for family activities both on and off the water. Bewl Water is the largest inland water expanse in the south east and lies within a valley in the High Weald.

From walking, cycling and sailing to picnics, fishing, play areas and a fabulous aqua park, Bewl Water is all about getting active outdoors and it’s opened up again after lockdown. We pulled on our hiking shoes and set out to walk part of 13-mile perimeter of the reservoir. There’s a large car park where we parked up and used the hand sanitiser stations next to the pay machines before heading down to the water. The Waterside café, with its large open terrace is open with social distancing measures in place. A marquee has been set up for rainy days. The Boat House Bistro is currently closed.

Down the grassy bank is Bewl Galleon adventure playground. The huge wooden pirate ship has various platforms, bridges, towers, steps and a slide. Kids will love practising their balancing and agility skills. The grassy slope with views of the water makes for a perfect picnic area nearby.

On the water sailing lessons were in progress with 4-5 boats heading out to the middle of the water. SUP, canoeing and windsurfing are also available. The water is very calm so it’s a safe place to learn. We set out in a clockwise direction along the top of the dam passing the Aqua Park and the overflow and draw-off towers.

The Aqua Park has just re-opened with strict guidelines in place. The huge inflatable assault course on the water looks like a lot of fun. It’s open to ages from 6 to 95. Too bad if you’re 96 though.

The dam was completed in 1975 and filled for the first time three years later. When full, Bewl contains the equivalent amount of water to provide every person on the planet with one gallon of water each. The views are stunning with the blue sky and clouds reflecting on the water and the green countryside in the distance.

The shady cover of the trees gave us some respite from the sun and we carried on around the perimeter trail. To walk around the entire reservoir takes 5-6 hours depending on your fitness levels. You’ll discover vineyards, wild-flowers and gorgeous views. There’s a nature reserve too. Well-behaved dogs are welcome with certain guidelines.

The route is also perfect for cycling and bikes can be hired from the hire shop near to the café. Horses are also welcomed. There are many stops on the walking trail with benches and picnic areas and quiet spots for fishing.

A day at Bewl can be as relaxing or as active as you fancy with plenty of opportunities to entertain the whole family. At just £5 per car per day you won’t break the bank either.

Please check the Bewl Water website for Covid-19 restrictions and guidelines.

Thank you to Suzanne Jones from The Travelbunny for this guest post.