Much to my dismay, we’ve officially reached the end of the summer. And in a matter of mere moments, we Londoners will be retreating back into our (overpriced) homes, ready to hibernate for the cosy season. But before we do so, I reckon we’ve still got a couple of sunny days left in the tank – and where better to soak up those last rays of sporadic sunshine than at a jaw-droppingly gorgeous lake, just an hour outside of the capital?
Yes, you read that correctly, folks. There’s a huge crystal-clear lake within extremely easy reach of London, that’ll make you think that you’ve been transported to somewhere in the middle of the Mediterranean, when you’re actually in Surrey. And more specifically: Buckland Park Lake.
Buckland Park Lake
Picturesquely perched between Reigate and Surrey (just an hour outside of London) is a breathtakingly beautiful lagoon, surrounded by a lush and leafy woodland. Despite spanning a rather sizeable surface area, very few people know about this oh-so serene spot – but that’s where we come in, I suppose.
Things to do at Buckland Park Lake
The list of things to get stuck into at Buckland Park Lake is pretty lengthy, to be honest. Lake-wise, you can partake in a spot of paddleboarding or eFoiling (a unique new watersport that makes you feel like you’re flying above the water, apparently), courtesy of the Surrey Hills Adventure Company. And Buckland Park Lake is also one of few nearby places that offers year-round open water swimming. You can take a cold plunge, hop in the sauna, or even enjoy some paddleboard yoga. But if you’d rather just sit and soak up the views, you can do so (with a glass of wine in hand) from the lakeside restaurant, The Reverie, or from one of the many picnic benches dotted around.
The 50-acre woodland surrounding the lake is a large and diverse ecosystem, boasting an abundance of varied wildlife. The park is home to approximately 102 bird species, 29 butterfly species, and a whopping 224 species of plants and flowers. There’s a wonderful 11km woodland trail that you can embark on, as well as a 2km lake circuit, and there are also shuttle services and guided tours available to book onto. Oh, and I’ve potentially saved the best until last, because Buckland Park Lake also offers visitors the chance to meet and greet their outrageously cute (and ever-so friendly) alpacas. Consider my weekend plans officially sorted.
Getting to Buckland Park Lake from London
It’s pretty hard to believe, but it takes less than an hour to drive to Buckland Park Lake from London. There’s ample parking once you get there, too. And your reservation or paid ticket will grant you access to the car park. Non-driving Londoners can hop on a direct and speedy train from Clapham Junction to Dorking, and take a short onward bus journey from there.
You’ll find Buckland Park Lake at Park Lake Drive, Betchworth, RH3 7FE. All activities and watersports need to be booked in advance and dogs are not permitted. Find out more and plan your visit to Buckland Park Lake here.