Buchan Country Park just outside Crawley is the sort of place that if you know it, you probably love it and visit often. But it’s also the sort of place that is all too easy to whizz past. But next time you see the sign, stop and take a moment.
At a glance
A great spot for a family walk, especially during the holidays when you may have several generations together, or if you just need a little time out after a busy day on the treadmill of life. It includes 69 hectares, lakes, trees and wooded areas and wildlife.
Logistics
Buchan Country Park is just outside Crawley off the A264.
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By car: Free car park and toilets are open 7 days a week.
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By bus: Route 3, 23 or 200 from Bewbush to Dorsten Square or Route 1 or Fastway 10 from Broadfield to Pelham Drive.
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Difficulty: Easy. Pretty flat.
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Accessibility: There is a network of hard-surfaced paths, and much of the park has good access for pushchairs and wheelchairs. There is a 1.3 km easy access route.
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Distance: Approx. 1 to 3 km, depending on variations.
- Coffee shop: Open Wednesday to Sunday – 9 am to 3 pm
About Buchan Park
In the 19th century, the park was owned by a Mr Saillard, who built what is now Cottesmore. But by 1969, it had been bought by West Sussex County Council. It was opened to the public in 1982. The park is designated a Site of Nature Conservation Importance and designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest. It includes two central ponds, Douster Pond and Island Pond. It’s known for its dragonflies.
Buchan Park walks
You don’t need a map for this walk, but there are information leaflets at the centre next to the car park. There is a blue route walk which is 1.3 km and takes you around Douster Pond. Then there’s the red route walk, which is about 2.75 km. In addition to these two official routes, several rough tracks wiggle their way around the woods. There are also a couple of benches and Island Pond has a designated “dog dip” area where dogs can swim without disturbing the wildlife. There is also a dog-free area and sculptures dotted around the park. A walk here won’t be a long one, but it will be an excellent potter and a chance to enjoy local wildlife.
Finish with a coffee
The good news is that there’s also a coffee shop and a small visitor centre that has lots of information pamphlets. The car park isn’t huge and can get busy.
Of course, you are also not far from Tilgate Park here, which has all sorts of additional facilities, including a zoo, water sports, lakes and walks.
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