Tilgate Park and Nature Centre
Tilgate Park is a very popular park in Crawley with over 2,000 acres of heathland and woodland to wander, cycle or ride around, plus a golf course and nature centre.
Tilgate Park history
Originally part of the huge Tilgate Estate and part of the ancient Worth Forest, Tilgate Park has a rich history that can be traced all the way back to the Norman Conquest. It is likely that iron works were carried out here in the middle ages. In more recent times Malcolm Campbell's Bluebird speedboat was tested here.Tilgate Park is now run by Crawley Borough Council.
The Nature Centre
Tilgate Park Nature Centre keeps a mixture of domestic and wild animals.The Centre has several rare species in its care, including Pink Pigeons, Red Squirrels and White Park Cattle. The Centre also organises talks to schools and runs an Adopt an Animal scheme.
The Walled Garden
The Walled Garden at Tilgate Park was originally a kitchen garden, serving the Tilgate Estate. It now has a cafe and other facilities plus attractions including a maze.
The Inn in the Park restaurant
The Inn in the Park is a restaurant that stands on the site of Tilgate Mansion, built in the 1860s but demolished in 1965.
Tilgate Golf
Tilgate Forest Golf Centre has an 18 hole par 72 golf course, a 9 hole par 3 course plus a large driving range and pro shop. As a municipal golf course, you don't need to be a member to play.
Fishing in Tilgate Park
Tilgate Silt Lake can be fished on payment of a fee for a day pass by anyone with a license.
Other open spaces near Tilgate Park
The other great park around Crawley is Buchan Country Park, a mixture of woodland and heathland habitats with plenty of enjoyable walks and a countryside centre.
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- Chichester
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