Lychpole Dewpond

A shallow lake surrounded by chalk downland, Lychpole Dewpond sits quietly near Pulborough without the fanfare of better-known Sussex water spots. It's the sort of place you stumble upon rather than plan for, and that's rather its charm. The water reflects sky and hillside, and on a calm day it's genuinely peaceful - exactly what you want when you've had enough of the crowds elsewhere.

Walkers get the most from it. There's a decent loop around the pond itself, and it connects nicely to the wider footpath network across the downs. Birdwatchers do well here too. You'll spot mallards, the occasional heron if you're patient, and plenty of smaller birds in the scrub. It's not a destination in itself - you won't need more than thirty minutes for a walk around the water - but as part of a longer downland ramble, it's well worth including.

The whole thing is free and open whenever you fancy. No facilities, no visitor centre, no cafe. Just the pond, the grass, and the South Downs. Families with young kids might find it a bit sparse; older walkers and nature types will find it properly rewarding. If you're staying at Onslow Caravan Park or Brook Lane - both within five miles - it's an easy morning's ramble that beats another circuit around the visitor centre.