Best lakes around Pevensey are primarily found within the extensive wetlands of the Pevensey Levels, a vast low-lying area characterized by a complex network of ditches, canals, and ponds. This region is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and tranquil, flat landscapes. Beyond the Levels, the area also features man-made fishing lakes and a significant reservoir, offering diverse aquatic experiences. These environments provide opportunities for birdwatching, walking, cycling, and fishing.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Highlight • Forest
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Pevensey.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Ashburnham Place was a fine manor house until the mid-20th century. The landscape park with three lakes was created by the grandiose landscape architect Capability Brown. Today the property belongs to a Christian community that runs a restaurant with highly recommended organic food. The homemade bread is also very good.
0
0
Decent cafe for a coffee or refuel - tempting whaff of bacon butties...
0
0
Flat quiet road linking Rickney with Herstmonceux along the scenic Pevensey Levels
0
0
The route is mainly flat and low. A lovely, winding route across the Levels that doesn't see much traffic due to its narrowness.
1
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
1
0
The Pevensey area is primarily known for the extensive wetlands of the Pevensey Levels, which feature a complex network of ditches, canals, and ponds. Beyond these unique wetlands, you can also find man-made fishing lakes like Sharnfold Farm Fishery and the larger Arlington Reservoir, offering diverse aquatic experiences.
The Pevensey Levels are a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Ramsar site, renowned for their exceptional biodiversity, including various bird species. For a more focused birdwatching experience, Arlington Reservoir is a highly popular spot, known to host over 170 species, including cormorants, mallards, and even ospreys from its dedicated bird hide.
Yes, the Pevensey Levels offer tranquil walking opportunities along country lanes and public rights of way, including sections of the 1066 path. You can also walk around Arlington Reservoir on a trail that leads around the entire body of water. For more structured routes, consider exploring the hiking trails around Pevensey.
The Pevensey Levels are a haven for wildlife, particularly rare and endangered invertebrates like the fen raft spider, and a diverse range of freshwater molluscs and aquatic plants. Birdwatchers can spot species such as grey heron, cormorant, lapwing, snipe, and even kingfisher and water rail.
Yes, Sharnfold Farm Fishery offers a family-friendly environment with fishing, a farm shop, play park, country trails, farm animals, and fruit picking. Arlington Reservoir is also suitable for families, with easy walking trails and birdwatching opportunities. Ashburnham Place and Parkland, with its three lakes, is another family-friendly option featuring a restaurant with organic food.
Yes, Sharnfold Farm Fishery is a popular spot for match fishing, holding a variety of species including tench, bream, and barbel. Arlington Reservoir also offers some of the best trout fly fishing in the South East, available from banks or by boat.
Yes, Arlington Reservoir is designed with accessibility in mind. It has disabled access, including "RADAR" locked gates for wheelchair users and dedicated disabled toilets, making it welcoming for a wide range of visitors.
The Pevensey Levels are particularly vibrant in warmer months for wildlife spotting and walking. Arlington Reservoir is excellent year-round for walking and birdwatching, with specific ornithological interest in winter for wigeon populations. Spring is ideal for seeing bluebells in areas like Wilmington Woods near Arlington.
Yes, the Pevensey Levels are popular with cyclists, offering tranquil views along country lanes and public rights of way. The Winding Road Through Pevensey Levels SSSI is a notable cycle way. You can find more options in the road cycling routes around Pevensey.
The Pevensey Levels themselves hold historical significance as they lie behind Pevensey Bay, William the Conqueror's landing place in 1066. Additionally, Ashburnham Place and Parkland features a landscape park designed by Capability Brown, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical design.
Beyond walking and cycling, you can enjoy fishing at Sharnfold Farm Fishery and Arlington Reservoir. The wider Pevensey area also offers various running trails for those looking for a different kind of outdoor exercise.
Sharnfold Farm Fishery offers a farm shop, cafe, and car parking. Arlington Reservoir has car parking and disabled facilities. Ashburnham Place and Parkland includes a restaurant with organic food. For other areas, public rights of way and country lanes often have limited facilities, so planning ahead is recommended.


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