Originally formed by a dam built in 1611 for an Evelyn Mill, part of Godstone Place until 1965 when the owner, Miss Jenny Lindley, gave it to the Surrey Wildlife Trust. The Trust has open days throughout the year for visitors. There is a small exhibition on site. Schools visit for pond dipping and talks by the warden. It has attractive flora, such as Yellow Iris, Marsh Marigolds, Water Forget-me-nots, Purple Loosestrife, Water Plantain, many Reeds, Rushes and other species. An abundance of aquatic life of all kinds. Many mature trees including Beech, Oak, Alder, Crack Willow, Scots Pine and others. Over a hundred species of birds have been seen on the reserve, some are known to breed here.

The water is an important winter roost and feeding area for many visitors such as Canada Geese, Pochard, Great Crested Grebe and various Gulls. Grey Heron can be seen quite regularly and if you are lucky, a Kingfisher now and again. Local breeds are Woodpeckers, Warblers, Siskins, Redpols and the various common birds. The whole reserve has now been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).