The pond was originally created by damming the western end of the heath, likely during the medieval period.
The heath is home to a population of rare medicinal leeches, which are protected under UK law.
Archaeological surveys have confirmed that the Bronze Age barrows date back approximately 3,000 to 4,000 years.
The heathland vegetation supports specific rare species including the bog asphodel and round-leaved sundew.
Water levels in the pond are naturally regulated by a spillway that drains into the River Rother system.
Petersfield Heath is a 38-acre site designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Scheduled Ancient Monument. The focal point is the 22-acre pond, which reaches depths of up to 10 feet. The heath contains 21 Bronze Age round barrows, representing one of the largest concentrations of such features in lowland Britain. The area consists of a mosaic of heathland, acid grassland, and woodland habitats. It serves as a natural flood alleviation basin for the local area. The site is managed by the Petersfield Town Council and features a dedicated play area and a café on the premises. Fishing is permitted by permit, and the pond is used for recreational boating. It is situated within the South Downs National Park.
The wooden boardwalk near the southern edge of the pond looking back toward the heath.
Walk the perimeter trail to view the various Bronze Age barrow clusters located on the higher ground.
Visit during the early autumn to observe the heather in late bloom and migratory bird activity on the pond.
Use the dedicated car park on Heath Road West, which provides the most direct access to the main walking paths.
Feeding the waterfowl, which disrupts the local ecosystem and water quality.
Keep dogs under control during ground-nesting bird season; do not climb on or damage the protected Bronze Age barrows.
