It may have a very practical side, but Bewl Water is also a hive of outdoor adventure.

The reservoir is a key source of drinking water for East Sussex and Kent, but it is also home to family activities, sports, eateries, and acres of walks and rambles in its surrounding 800-acre country park, set in an Area of Outstanding Beauty.

It opens for the new season this weekend, with lots of healthy, outdoor fun on offer and places to relax afterwards.

Andrew Daniells, chief operating officer at owners Markerstudy Leisure, said: “After a successful first year at Bewl, we’re excited about the new season and looking forward to welcoming back regulars and newcomers alike, whether they are here to get out on the water or to enjoy the walks and rides around the lake.”

The Bewl Belle, which offers trips around the reservoir with drop-off and pick-up points, also re-launches on Saturday, March 25.

WALKS

From gentle strolls to adventurous family walks or long rambles with the dog, Bewl has what you’re looking for. The scenic route, open to walkers all year round, is 12.5 miles and takes about six hours. There are well-maintained paths around the lake.

CYCLING

See Bewl Water on two wheels for some fitness-friendly fun for the whole family. Cycle hire resumes on Saturday, March 18, with bikes for children and adults available, along with trailers and childseats, plus helmets. The paths around the lake are fairly flat and if you run out of puff, the water taxi has a bike carrier on board. If mud is what you’re looking for, there is an off-road track and, while there are no mountains for mountain bikers, there are tracks with far-reaching views. The track length is 12.5 miles and is open, weather permitting. Bikes are available from 9am and need to be returned by 3.30pm.

WATER SPORTS

Get out on the wet stuff at Bewl, whether it’s for a leisurely pedal or a frenetic paddle. Sailing is on offer seven days a week. You can join on an annual or day membership basis. You can sailing dinghies and windsurfers of all classes are welcome, and there is weekly racing with the Bewl Sailing Association. You can join a group canoeing event with Bewl Canoe Club, which caters for all ages and experience. You can also try your hand at rowing with the Bewl Bridge Rowing Club, which offers coaching and tuition and has members ranging in age from 11 to 78.

FISHING

Your catch of the day could be big or small – it’s between you and the fish. The relaxing, or competitive, sport comes in many forms at Bewl, with some catches limited. There are boat trips which can be chartered with experienced guides and coaches. As the fishing season kicks off on Tuesday, March 21. There is also the chance for one lucky angler to win £2,500 better off if they rise to the challenge of landing the Golden Trout. For details of the contest, visit bewlwater.co.uk

FOOD

The old boathouse remains home to the Boathouse Bistro at weekends, and the Waterfront restaurant is open at weekends throughout March.

EVENTS

The site has a calendar of events, including an Easter Egg Hunt on Sunday, April 16, and the popular Bewl Half Marathon on Saturday, May 13, followed by the Bewl Tri on Saturday, August 5, and Sunday, August 6. Dragon Boats also return on Saturday, September 9.

DETAILS

Bewl Water is near Lamberhurst off the A21. or details of what’s on at Bewl this year, and to find out more about the new wedding and events venue, visit bewlwater.co.uk Car parking costs £2.