Best lakes around Iford are found in the village of Iford, East Sussex, situated on the slopes of the South Downs in the valley of the River Ouse. This area is characterized by its rolling hills and the nearby Lewes Brooks, a floodplain recognized for its ecological importance. The region features a variety of aquatic environments, including fishing lakes, historic lidos, and unique dew ponds. These natural and man-made water features offer opportunities for nature observation and scenic walking routes.
…Last updated: June 28, 2026
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What looks like a recently worked pond - with trees protecting one side and a fence protecting the area. Great views from the hill.
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This is a wonderful little rest stop if your hiking or a quick breather stop if your out running. This isolated pond is a veritable haven for the local wildlife and domestic animals. It is also a great photo stop too.
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Peaceful and surprisingly scenic cut through that offers a different side of Lewes.
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Before it was possible to channel a water supply to farmland, dew ponds were dug as a way to collect rain water for the animals. Sometimes known as mist ponds or cloud ponds, they are usually high up on hills so are often accompanied by beautiful views.
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dogs love to dip into water here, sometimes cattle are around
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Built in 1860 and fed by a spring, Pells Pool is the oldest freshwater lido in the country that is still operating.
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The Iford area, particularly in East Sussex, offers a variety of water features. You'll find unique dew ponds, which are man-made ponds often high on hills collecting rainwater for animals, such as Dew Pond with Lone Tree and Jill's Pond. The region also features historic lidos like Pells Pool, and forest ponds like Lott's Pond.
Yes, Pells Pool is a notable historical site. Built in 1860 and fed by a spring, it is the oldest freshwater lido in the country that is still operating, offering a peaceful and scenic experience.
Several spots are family-friendly. Dew Pond with Lone Tree and Jill's Pond are both listed as family-friendly and offer interesting natural features and views. Pells Pool, as a lido, is also a great option for families looking for a swimming experience.
Yes, Dew Pond with Lone Tree is specifically noted as dog-friendly, with tips mentioning that dogs love to dip into the water there. When walking near Lott's Pond, be aware that it's a popular area for dog walkers.
Many of the dew ponds are situated high on hills, offering expansive views. For instance, Dew Pond with Lone Tree provides beautiful vistas, and Jill's Pond offers great views of Lewes. The Fenced Hilltop Pond also boasts great views from its elevated position.
Yes, the area around Iford is excellent for walking. You can find various routes, including easy hikes like "The Juggs – St Pancras Church loop from Iford" or "Swanborough Hill – The Juggs loop from Iford." For more options, explore the easy hikes around Iford guide.
Beyond walking, the region offers a range of outdoor activities. You can find mountain biking trails, such as those in the MTB Trails around Iford guide, and running trails, including the "Swanborough Fishing Lake loop from Iford" mentioned in the Running Trails around Iford guide.
The terrain around Iford's lakes often involves rolling hills, especially for the dew ponds located high on the South Downs. Areas like Lewes Brooks, a floodplain of the River Ouse, offer flatter, wetland environments. Forest sections, such as near Lott's Pond, can include downhill segments.
While the area features various water bodies, the most direct option for swimming is Pells Pool, which is a freshwater lido. Information on designated wild swimming spots in natural lakes is not readily available for this specific area.
Lewes Brooks, located east of Iford village, is a floodplain of the River Ouse recognized for its biological importance. It provides a habitat for a diverse range of invertebrates, including numerous water beetles, and several rare snails, flies, and moths, making it a notable aquatic environment for nature observation.
Visitors appreciate the unique character of the dew ponds, often highlighting the beautiful views they offer from their elevated positions. The historical significance and peaceful atmosphere of Pells Pool are also highly valued. The komoot community has shared over 39 photos and given over 200 upvotes for these spots.
While the main highlights are well-regarded, the Fenced Hilltop Pond offers a more secluded experience. It's described as a recently worked pond with great views from the hill, providing a quiet spot for contemplation.


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