The best walks and hikes around Arlington Reservoir
4.7
(1855)
12,156
hikers
402
hikes
Hikes around Arlington Reservoir explore the area surrounding a 245-acre biological Site of Special Scientific Interest in East Sussex. The landscape is primarily composed of a large body of open water, with trails following a mix of paved surfaces and grassy tracks along its perimeter. The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation change, making it suitable for accessible walks.
Best hiking trails around Arlington Reservoir
- The most popular hiking route is the Arlington Reservoir loop from Berwick, a 3.2 mile (5.2 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 20 minutes to complete. This easy walk follows the shoreline of the reservoir.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is the Long Man of Wilmington – High Street, Alfriston loop from Berwick, a moderate 11.1 mile (17.9 km) path. This longer route extends beyond the reservoir to include views of the well-known chalk figure.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Arlington Reservoir – St Pancras Church, Arlington loop from Arlington, a 3.9 mile (6.2 km) trail leading through the surrounding countryside, often completed in about 1 hour 35 minutes.
- Hiking around Arlington Reservoir is defined by waterside paths, open fields, and gentle rural tracks. The network of trails provides options for both short, easy walks and more extended moderate hikes.
- The routes in Arlington Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 1,700 reviews. More than 11,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Arlington Reservoir's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
4.7
(10)
204
hikers
5.22km
01:21
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(13)
65
hikers
17.8km
04:46
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
6
hikers
6.22km
01:37
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
14.7km
04:04
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
19.8km
05:30
340m
340m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Wonderful and mysterious!
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Beautiful little village with a couple of great shops for refuelling
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I can recommend visiting the Long Man of Wilmington (it isn't an ancient Fertility symbol more an artificial 17th century tourist attraction, more fool, the faux American witches I saw there several years ago). However I can't recommend leaving the Long Man pub down the road, at 7.30pm, in January, several days after it snowed and then several days of negative temperatures froze it in place, and then climb straight up past it. There is a path but we decided that would take far too long to divert to it. It was not surprisingly steep.
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About the patronage of this church: Saint ANDREW is one of the twelve apostles that Jesus Christ called to follow him. However, in the biblical accounts he is usually somewhat overshadowed by his much more famous brother: Saint Peter. In the Gospels we find the calling of the two siblings presented in different ways. According to the text of the Gospel of John (John 1:40-42), Andrew is called first (together with another disciple whose name is not mentioned). Later he tells his brother that he has found the Messiah. The feast of Saint Andrew in the calendar of saints is on November 30th in all major Christian denominations. The X-shaped white "St. Andrew's Cross" on which he was executed forms the national flag of Scotland against a blue background and has also found its way into the national flag of the United Kingdom of Great Britain.
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“Each of these crosses can tell its own story and what motivated people to erect “their” cross at this spot. (...) These wayside crosses were erected as visible signs and attract the attention of many people. The cross is a symbol of life. It stands as a sign of our Christian hope and aims to direct our gaze to Jesus Christ, who has overcome death (...). The cross is part of our lives, just as it was part of Jesus’ life. So I hope that many people... will visit the wayside crosses, whether as places of silence and breathing before God, whether as places of community gathering, prayer and praise of God.” (Text source: Dean Rainald M. Ollig in: “Wayside crosses... small sacred monuments as signs of popular piety”)
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Amazing hidden frescos inside the church
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to walk around Arlington Reservoir?
A full circuit of the reservoir is typically a short and pleasant walk. For example, the Arlington Reservoir loop from Selmeston is just under 2 miles (3.2 km) and can be completed in about an hour, making it a great option for a quick outing.
Are the walking trails around Arlington Reservoir difficult?
Most trails immediately around the reservoir are considered easy. The terrain is generally flat, following a mix of paved surfaces and grassy tracks with minimal elevation change. This makes it suitable for walkers of all fitness levels. More challenging, moderate hikes can be found in the surrounding High Weald landscape.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the Arlington Reservoir area?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars. Hikers frequently praise the peaceful waterside paths, the excellent opportunities for birdwatching, and the generally flat, accessible nature of the main reservoir loop.
Are dogs allowed on the trails at Arlington Reservoir?
Yes, dogs are welcome on the footpaths around Arlington Reservoir. However, as it is a designated nature reserve and home to sensitive wildlife and livestock, it is essential to keep them on a lead and under close control at all times.
Is there parking available at Arlington Reservoir?
Yes, there is a main car park available for visitors. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as it can get busy. Some trailheads in nearby villages like Berwick or Arlington may also offer on-street parking options.
Are there any family-friendly walks in the area?
Absolutely. The main path around the reservoir is ideal for families due to its flat surface and relatively short distance. The combination of open water, wildlife spotting, and clear paths makes it an engaging and manageable walk for children.
Can I get to Arlington Reservoir using public transport?
The nearest train station is Berwick, which is a manageable walk from the reservoir. Several hiking routes, including some of the most popular loops, start directly from the station, making it a convenient option for those arriving by train.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
Arlington Reservoir is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a haven for wildlife, particularly birds. Over 170 species have been recorded here. Look out for herons, kingfishers, and woodpeckers. There is a bird hide available for enthusiasts to get a closer look.
Are the trails accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs?
The main path around the reservoir is a mix of paved and grassy tracks. While generally flat, some sections may be challenging. Notably, the two 'kiss gates' on the dam wall are fitted with RADAR locks, which allow wheelchair users with a key to open the gates fully for access.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes that start from the reservoir?
Yes, the reservoir serves as a great starting point for more extensive hikes into the surrounding countryside. For a longer day out, you could try the Arlington Reservoir – St Pancras Church, Arlington loop from Berwick, a moderate 9.6-mile (15.5 km) route that explores the wider area.
Is fishing permitted at the reservoir?
Yes, Arlington Reservoir is renowned for being one of the best trout fisheries in the South East. Fly fishing is popular from the banks or by boat, but you will need to check local regulations and obtain the necessary permits in advance.
How many hiking trails are there around Arlington Reservoir?
You can find over 400 hiking routes in the Arlington Reservoir region on komoot. These range from easy, short loops around the water to more demanding moderate trails that venture into the High Weald National Landscape, offering plenty of options for every type of hiker.
Most popular routes around Arlington Reservoir
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