Arlington Reservoir

Stunning. Ideal for a lovely walk around it, or a picnic in the beautiful opening near the parking spaces. Really lovely.

Arlington is a small reservoir, constructed in 1971 to supply water to Eastbourne, Hailsham, Polegate and Heathfield. Built on the site of part of the Cuckmere River bed, the reservoir is an oval shape, with a long curving dam. The maximum depth is 37ft (11.3m) and its total capacity is 3546 million litres of water, all abstracted from the Cuckmere River in winter.
The 49 hectare site was designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1985, and is also a Local Nature Reserve. It contains a diverse range of habitats, which in turn support some 173 species of bird, including a winter population of 10,000 wildfowl. The site has hides for birdwatching, and also provides some of the best trout fishing in the South East of England (tel: 1 323 870 810). The water company also organises school nature trips, including pond dipping.
The reservoir path also provides a reasonably level walking trail, which, as well as wildlife, also offers lovely views of the South Downs. A walking leaflet (
) is available on the East Sussex County Council website or you can get a hard copy by phoning 1 273 482 250.
Practicalities
There is a car park at the main entrance on Station Road, just north of Berwick railway station (on the right hand side, going north). This has information boards, toilets and picnic tables. Swimming and boating are not permitted.