Top 8 Lakes around Polegate

Polegate is well-known for its fishing lakes. Arlington Reservoir, while primarily a nature reserve, was historically a trout fishery. For dedicated angling, **Amazon Wood Fishery** in Polegate offers three distinct lakes (Fox, Rabbit, and Badger Lake for members) stocked with various carp, tench, roach, and perch. Further afield in East Sussex, you can find **Falkenvil Fishery** (five heavily stocked lakes), **Darwell Reservoir** (known for large predatory fish), and **Framfield Fishery** (three lakes, including one for specimen hunting).

Yes, there are several excellent options for walking and hiking. Arlington Reservoir offers a 120-acre green landscape perfect for strolls. The Winding Road Through Pevensey Levels SSSI provides a flat, serene route alongside canals and ponds, ideal for quiet walks. You can also explore the scenic river valley country park around Oxbow Lake on the River Ouse. For more structured routes, check out the easy hikes around Polegate or the broader hiking guide for the area.

Several lakes are family-friendly. Arlington Reservoir is a great choice with its open green spaces and birdwatching opportunities. Oxbow Lake on the River Ouse is part of a country park, offering space for children to explore. **Common Pond, Hailsham** is a beloved spot with ducks, geese, and swans, perfect for a picnic. The Winding Road Through Pevensey Levels SSSI is also suitable for families looking for a flat, quiet cycle or walk.

Many of the natural areas around Polegate's lakes are dog-friendly, though it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially near wildlife or livestock. Arlington Reservoir and the trails around Oxbow Lake on the River Ouse are popular choices for dog walkers. Always remember to clean up after your pet to preserve the natural environment for everyone.

The lakes around Polegate are rich in wildlife. Arlington Reservoir, a designated Local Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest, is a prime spot for birdwatching, with cormorants, swallows, mallards, coots, Canadian geese, and black swans. The Winding Road Through Pevensey Levels SSSI is also noted for its great wildlife. Fishing lakes like **Amazon Wood Fishery** are home to various fish species, and you might spot other local fauna in the surrounding woodlands.

While specific details for all lakes vary, **Amazon Wood Fishery** in Polegate does offer disabled access swims with parking, indicating some level of accessibility. The Winding Road Through Pevensey Levels SSSI is described as flat and serene, which may make it suitable for some users, though conditions can vary. It's advisable to check specific conditions before visiting.

The lakes around Polegate offer beauty throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the lush green landscapes, birdwatching, and outdoor activities like walking and cycling. The **Wilmington Woods Bluebell Walk** near Arlington is particularly enchanting in the warmer months when bluebells transform the woodland trails. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, while winter can offer peaceful, crisp walks, especially for birdwatching at Arlington Reservoir.

Parking availability varies by location. **Amazon Wood Fishery** offers parking, including disabled access parking. **Falkenvil Fishery** also provides ample parking for visitors. For other locations like Arlington Reservoir or Oxbow Lake on the River Ouse, dedicated parking areas are typically available, though it's always good to check local signage upon arrival.

Wild swimming is generally not permitted in most reservoirs and designated fishing lakes due to safety regulations, water quality concerns, and to protect wildlife. For example, Arlington Reservoir serves as a water source and nature reserve, making swimming unsuitable. It's always best to adhere to local signage and regulations regarding water activities.

Yes, for a truly serene experience, the Winding Road Through Pevensey Levels SSSI is a hidden gem. It's a flat, quiet route alongside canals and ponds, often without much traffic or development, and not many locals know this area, offering a peaceful escape. The woodlands surrounding lakes like those at **Pippingford Park Estate** (though members-only for fishing) also offer a more natural, non-commercialized environment.

The area around Polegate offers various cycling routes that can take you near or past some of the lakes. The Winding Road Through Pevensey Levels SSSI is a cycle way itself, offering a flat and serene ride. The Cuckoo Trail, which passes by **Common Pond, Hailsham**, is also popular for cycling. You can find more cycling options in the cycling guide for Polegate, which includes routes of varying difficulty.