Things To Do
in Southwater
Southwater is a tranquil village in West Sussex, just southwest of Horsham, set amid rolling countryside and bordered by woods and lakes. It centers on a family-friendly atmosphere with Southwater Country Park at its heart, offering walking trails, a lake, and easy access to outdoor activities. The surrounding area lies at the edge of the South Downs, making it a convenient base for countryside walks, markets, and day trips to Sussex towns.
With nearby towns offering pubs, cafes, and cultural sites, Southwater provides a relaxed yet well-connected base for exploring the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll around the Southwater Country Park, where you can enjoy the serene lakes and lush green spaces. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy by the water as you watch the swans glide by. Take in the crisp morning air as you prepare for a day of exploration.
After lunch, visit the Southwater Village Hall to discover local art exhibits and community events. Engage with the friendly locals to learn about the history and culture of Southwater. Spend some time at the Southwater Skatepark for some light exercise and vibrant atmosphere.
As the sun sets, head over to a nearby pub for dinner where you can savor classic British dishes and local ales. Join in for a pub quiz night or simply relax with a game of darts as you mingle with the locals. End your day with a peaceful walk through the town, soaking in the quiet charm of the village.
Begin your adventure at the Southwater Outdoor Adventure Centre, where you can take part in a variety of water sports. With the sun shining brightly, feel the thrill as you kayak or paddleboard across the gentle waters of Southwater Lake. Embrace the natural beauty surrounding you before the afternoon heat kicks in.
After some adrenaline-pumping activities, recharge with a picnic lunch at one of the many scenic spots in the park. Take this time to relax and maybe do some bird-watching or simply enjoy the tranquility of nature. As the afternoon rolls in, take a leisurely bike ride along the scenic paths of the countryside.
Conclude this adventurous day at a family-friendly restaurant in Southwater, where you can share your day's experiences over dinner. Opt for a casual atmosphere that caters to families, making it the perfect spot for unwinding. Cap it off with a delightful dessert, perhaps a local specialty.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🚶Local transport (one-way) | $2-4 |
| 🥗Lunch for two | $25-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful village atmosphere with easy access to the countryside
- Proximity to Horsham and the South Downs for day trips
- Limited nightlife and few large-scale attractions within the village
- Public transport can be infrequent for some rural areas
Places to Visit in Southwater
Visit one of these nice places.
Reflective water, swans, and woodland paths provide tranquil compositions year-round.
Historic architecture, market activity, and seasonal events create lively street photography opportunities.
Manor garden landscapes with ferny glades, rhododendrons, and seasonal color.
Food in Southwater
Southwater Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty start at pubs or cafes offering eggs, bacon, sausages, beans, and toast.
Must-Try!
Scones with clotted cream and jam, often enjoyed at village cafes or at National Trust properties nearby.
Traditional chippy-style fish with fries, commonly found in pubs and seaside-adjacent towns.
Savory pies and pasties made with local meat and vegetables available at farm shops and pubs.
A classic British dessert served in many pubs and cafes after a meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in Carfax with local produce, breads, and cheeses; a short ride from Southwater.
Seasonal market offering fresh Sussex vegetables, meat, bakehouse items, and artisanal goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue patiently, say please and thank you, and greet staff politely in pubs and shops.
Evening gatherings in pubs are friendly; keep noise reasonable and respect local customs around quiet hours.
Safety
Tipping in Southwater
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; 10-15% for good service in restaurants and pubs is common if service charge is not included.
Cash and card payments are widely accepted; contactless and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are commonly used.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with mild temperatures; ideal for outdoor trails, country parks, and al fresco dining; expect occasional showers.
Vivid foliage and harvest markets; cool mornings and crisp days, good for scenic walks with changing colors.
Milder coastal climate but can be chilly and wet; best for cosy pubs and fireside cafes; daylight hours shorter.
Fresh green landscapes and blooming flowers; great for garden visits such as Nymans and country walks.
Southwater at Night
Hiking in Southwater
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic stretch with hill views and woodlands offering a pleasant half-day hike.
Historic hill fort with expansive coastal and countryside views nearby.
Gentle woodland walks and garden paths set in the National Trust estate near Handcross.
Airports
How to reach Southwater by plane.
Major international airport about 25 miles north of Southwater; frequent rail and road connections.
Large international hub about 40-50 miles north-east; accessible by road or rail via London.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households with children, drawn by schools, parks, and safe village environment.
Residents who travel to Horsham, Crawley, or London for work.
Older residents who value the peaceful setting and community networks.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and school teams are common in the Horsham area.
Seasonal matches in village greens and town parks.
Community teams in the wider West Sussex area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Southwater.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafes in the area offer vegetarian options; ask for veggie mains, sides, and dairy-free choices; many places can adapt dishes on request.