Best lakes around Westham, a village in the Wealden District of East Sussex, England, are situated within a region known for its natural landscapes. The area features a variety of lakes, reservoirs, and wetland systems. These bodies of water offer opportunities for nature observation, walking, and other outdoor activities. The geography includes both expansive reservoirs and unique natural formations.
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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Visitors frequently enjoy Arlington Reservoir, known for its birdwatching opportunities and status as a Local Nature Reserve. Another favorite is the Oxbow Lake on the River Ouse, set in a scenic river valley near the iconic Seven Sisters. The Winding Road Through Pevensey Levels SSSI also offers a unique landscape of canals and ponds for tranquil exploration.
Yes, several spots are great for families. Arlington Reservoir is a designated Local Nature Reserve with plenty of wildlife to observe. The Oxbow Lake on the River Ouse is part of a scenic country park, and the Winding Road Through Pevensey Levels SSSI provides flat, serene paths suitable for family walks and cycling.
The lakes and water features around Westham offer diverse natural beauty. At Arlington Reservoir, you'll find a green landscape rich in birdlife, including cormorants, swallows, and black swans, with an Osprey bird hide for observation. The Pevensey Levels feature a unique network of winding roads, canals, and ponds, home to great wildlife. Sheffield Park and Garden Lakes are celebrated for their spectacular autumn colors within a historic garden setting.
For birdwatching, Arlington Reservoir is an excellent choice. It's a Local Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest, featuring an Osprey bird hide on its northwest bank. You can spot a variety of species like cormorants, mallards, coots, and Canadian geese. Weir Wood Reservoir is also a designated Local Nature Reserve known for its significant bird populations, with an accessible bird hide.
Yes, the Winding Road Through Pevensey Levels SSSI is particularly well-suited for cycling, offering a flat and serene experience with minimal car traffic. While cycling directly around Arlington Reservoir may be restricted, the Pevensey Levels provide a unique and tranquil cycling environment. Rye Watersports Lake also has a paved path along its right bank suitable for cycling.
Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, the area around Westham offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, including easy loops around Pevensey Castle and moderate trails like the 1066 Country Walk. For cyclists, there are gravel biking routes, and running trails are also available, such as the Pevensey Roman Fort loop.
Weir Wood Reservoir is a notable destination for watersports, particularly sailing, as it hosts a sailing club. Bewl Water, though a bit further afield, is one of the largest lakes in Sussex and offers a wide range of activities including boating trips and fishing.
The Winding Road Through Pevensey Levels SSSI is an excellent choice for a peaceful experience. This area is characterized by flat, serene landscapes of canals and ponds, and is not widely known to many locals, ensuring minimal car traffic and a quiet atmosphere for walking.
Visitors appreciate the diverse environments, from expansive reservoirs to unique wetland systems. Many enjoy the abundant wildlife and birdwatching opportunities, especially at Arlington Reservoir. The tranquil walks and cycling paths through areas like the Pevensey Levels are also highly valued for their serene atmosphere and natural beauty.
Yes, Sheffield Park and Garden features four interconnected lakes within a historic landscape garden. Originally designed by renowned figures like Capability Brown, the park is now managed by the National Trust and is particularly famous for its spectacular autumn colors, offering picturesque settings for walks.
While specific details for all lakes are not available, the broader East Sussex area offers several notable fishing lakes. These include Amazon Wood Fishery, Ashdown Forest Fly Fishery, Barretts Park Farm, and Belfry Fishery, each providing unique angling experiences. Bewl Water also offers fishing opportunities.
Yes, Arlington Reservoir is a designated Local Nature Reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Similarly, Weir Wood Reservoir is also recognized as a Local Nature Reserve and SSSI, highlighting their importance for wildlife and conservation.


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