



Take control of your own craft and enjoy a full day on the water practising windsurfing, winging, foiling, sailing, or paddlesports. Self-launch sessions give competent users the freedom to explore the reservoir at their own pace, refine their skills, and enjoy open water in a safe, structured environment. Clear launch areas and designated zones make it simple to navigate while maintaining safety for all water users.
Sessions begin with an overview of site boundaries, safety procedures, and the designated zones for each type of craft. You will operate your own craft, allowing you to practise skills such as steering, turning, and maintaining speed, while navigating safely around other users. Clear separation of zones for paddlers, wind-powered craft, and sailors reduces the risk of conflicts and ensures everyone can enjoy the water safely.
Once on the water, you can focus on manoeuvres, self-rescue techniques, and sailing or paddling efficiency. SUP users will use leashes, wing and foil users must wear impact vests, and paddlers follow buddy systems for safety. You have the flexibility to spend as much time as you want practising, exploring, and testing your skills in different areas of the reservoir.
Over the course of the day, you can improve control, confidence, and awareness while enjoying the natural surroundings. Independent sessions encourage repeated practice, helping to build competence in a real open-water environment while allowing freedom to enjoy the sport at your own pace.
The reservoir near Forest Row, East Sussex, provides wide, sheltered waters ideal for self-launch water sports with your own craft. Designated launch points for paddlesports, sailing, windsurfing, winging, and foiling ensure you can get on and off the water safely while maintaining distance from other users.
Surrounding woodland and public areas give space for preparation, rigging, and rest. Signage highlights launch areas, exclusion zones, and shared water rules, helping you plan your day with confidence and enjoy a variety of water activities safely.
Users must be competent to operate their craft independently and capable of self-rescue after a capsize or fall. All participants should be confident swimmers and medically fit for activity, and craft must be in safe, seaworthy condition.
A buoyancy aid or approved impact vest is required at all times. Following site rules, staying within designated areas, and respecting right-of-way ensures the safety of yourself and others while giving you freedom on the water.
The reservoir offers a unique combination of open water, structured launch areas, and clear operational rules that make it perfect for independent water sports. Users can practise safely while exploring at their own pace, taking advantage of calm areas for technique work and more open stretches to challenge control and skill.
Staff are available to provide advice and support if needed, but the focus is on independent operation. With clearly marked zones, exclusion areas, and safety guidance, you can enjoy a rewarding experience while developing confidence, navigation skills, and craft handling.
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.