Lakes around Arlington, a village in East Sussex, England, are characterized by their natural beauty and ecological significance. The area features a mix of reservoirs, rivers, and ponds, often set within green landscapes and designated nature reserves. These bodies of water contribute to the region's diverse wildlife and offer opportunities for quiet exploration. The surrounding countryside includes rolling farmland and woodland, providing a serene setting for outdoor activities.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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Decent cafe for a coffee or refuel - tempting whaff of bacon butties...
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Flat quiet road linking Rickney with Herstmonceux along the scenic Pevensey Levels
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The route is mainly flat and low. A lovely, winding route across the Levels that doesn't see much traffic due to its narrowness.
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Set amongst 120 acres (49 ha) of green landscape, Arlington Reservoir is a designated Local Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest which is home to many different animal species. The best place to watch the wildlife is from the Osprey bird hide on the northwest bank. Look out for cormorants, swallows, mallards, coots, Canada geese, and black swans. Popular with birdwatchers and fishermen, the reservoir also serves water to around 2.1 million people in East Sussex.
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Hailsham's Common Pond is a beloved part of the town and underwent significant rejuvenation in the 1990s. Home to ducks, geese and swans, the pond is a lovely place to pause for a picnic or a snack stop and watch the world go by. The Cuckoo Trail, stretching north/south from Heathfield to Polegate, passes immediately by the pond.
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A scenic river valley country park set in rolling farmland alongside grass topped white chalk cliffs in the South Downs National Park. It’s most famous for the iconic Seven Sisters (Haven Brow, Short Brow, Rough Brow, Brass Brow, Flat Brow, Bailey’s Hill and Went Hill) and for the ox-bow lake on the River Ouse, which could have come out of a geography school book!
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The village of Arlington boasts a charming medieval church, a race track and a reservoir. However, it is the walks in the nearby Wilmington Woods that will enchant walkers the most. This is particularly true in the warmer months, when bluebells magically transform the woodland trails.
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The most popular lake is Arlington Reservoir, which is a designated Local Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest. Another highly regarded spot is Oxbow Lake on the River Ouse, a natural monument within a scenic river valley country park.
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Arlington Reservoir, Oxbow Lake on the River Ouse, Winding Road Through Pevensey Levels SSSI, and Common Pond in Hailsham are all categorized as family-friendly, offering various natural settings for enjoyment.
The lakes around Arlington are rich in wildlife. At Arlington Reservoir, you can spot cormorants, swallows, mallards, coots, Canadian geese, and black swans, especially from the Osprey bird hide. Common Pond in Hailsham is home to ducks, geese, and swans.
Absolutely. Arlington Reservoir is a prime location for birdwatching, being a designated Local Nature Reserve. The Osprey bird hide on the northwest bank is an excellent spot to observe various bird species.
Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. You can find several easy to moderate routes, such as the 'Abbot's Wood Lake – Abbots Wood loop from Arlington' or the 'Arlington Reservoir – Arlington Reservoir loop from Arlington'. For more options, explore the hiking guide for Arlington.
Yes, the area offers several cycling routes. The Winding Road Through Pevensey Levels SSSI is a cycle way featuring canals and ponds, known for its flat and serene path with minimal traffic. You can also find more routes in the road cycling guide for Arlington.
The lakes are set within diverse natural landscapes. You'll find green landscapes, designated nature reserves, rolling farmland, and woodland. Oxbow Lake on the River Ouse is particularly notable for its setting alongside white chalk cliffs in the South Downs National Park.
The Winding Road Through Pevensey Levels SSSI offers a unique, flat, and serene route through canals and ponds formed from sewers and floods. It's known for its quiet atmosphere and abundant wildlife, making it a hidden gem for those seeking tranquility.
While the lakes themselves are primarily natural features, the surrounding area has historical significance. For instance, the village of Arlington boasts a charming medieval church. The nearby Cuckoo Trail, which passes by Common Pond, Hailsham, is a former railway line, offering a glimpse into local history.
For scenic views, Oxbow Lake on the River Ouse offers picturesque vistas of the river valley and chalk cliffs. Common Pond, Hailsham also provides a lovely spot to pause and enjoy the surroundings.
While Arlington Reservoir is a popular spot for walking and birdwatching, some visitors have noted that cycling directly around the reservoir might not be permitted. It's best to check local signage for current regulations.
Common Pond, Hailsham is a lovely place to relax, have a picnic or a snack, and watch the ducks, geese, and swans. It's also conveniently located along the Cuckoo Trail, making it a great stop during a walk or cycle.


Still not found your perfect lake around Arlington? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.