Best lakes around Icklesham offer diverse natural settings within East Sussex. The area features various water bodies, from rural fishing lakes like Mericks Fishing Lake, known for its coarse fishing, to larger reservoirs and park ponds. The surrounding landscape includes wooded areas, farm fields, and nature reserves such as the Pannel Valley, which provides walking routes and wildlife observation opportunities. These natural features contribute to the region's appeal for outdoor activities.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
There are lots of lakes between Rye and Camber Sands, this is the biggest. There are only a few places where you can get to the water! According to the sign, the path along the left bank towards Rye is closed until around October 24th due to work. The path on the right is OK, but it's asphalt and always along the road, nice for cycling, but a bit boring for us to walk.
3
0
This reservoir has an excellent network of paths for a peaceful walk in a tranquil and nature-filled setting, with various little corners to discover. You can walk the entire way around the reservoir on its paths.
0
0
Between Rye and Camber Sands, next to the River Rother, you'll find this lake where it's common to see people engaging in various water sports, such as kayaking, windsurfing, or paddleboarding.
1
1
Around Icklesham, you'll discover a variety of water bodies, including rural fishing lakes like Mericks Fishing Lake, which is known for its coarse fishing. There are also park ponds such as Alexandra Park Pond, and reservoirs like Powdermill Reservoir, offering diverse natural settings for visitors.
Yes, Mericks Fishing Lake is a prime destination for coarse fishing. This 1.5-acre lake is stocked with a variety of fish species, including carp over 25lb, roach, rudd, tench, bream, perch, catfish, and pike, making it a popular spot for anglers seeking a tranquil escape.
You can observe and participate in various water sports at Rye Watersports Lake, located between Rye and Camber Sands. Activities commonly seen here include kayaking, windsurfing, and paddleboarding.
Absolutely. Alexandra Park Pond is part of a beautifully laid out park in Hastings, perfect for families. Powdermill Reservoir also offers an excellent network of paths for peaceful walks in a nature-filled setting, suitable for all ages. The Pannel Valley nature reserve also provides scenic walks that are generally accessible.
For a peaceful walk, Powdermill Reservoir offers a tranquil setting with paths that allow you to walk the entire way around. The Ecclesbourne Reservoir Forest Path also provides a quiet experience with a long road appearing across the forest, making it a very peaceful place to be.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. You can find various trails, including easy and moderate options, in the area. For example, the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve offers loops like the 'Rye Harbour Nature Reserve loop to Camber Castle' and shorter easy walks. You can explore more hiking routes in the Hiking around Icklesham guide and the Easy hikes around Icklesham guide.
The Pannel Valley nature reserve, near Icklesham, is a mosaic of habitats attracting diverse wildlife, especially migratory and resident birds. Mericks Fishing Lake, with its wooded areas and rural setting, also supports various fish species and general countryside wildlife.
The Pannel Valley nature reserve is an excellent spot for birdwatching. Its reed-lined river, scrapes, and varied habitats make it a haven for diverse bird species, appealing to nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.
The lakes and surrounding nature reserves like Pannel Valley offer beauty year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the full greenery and warmer weather for activities. Autumn brings vibrant colors, and winter can offer peaceful, crisp walks, especially around reservoirs like Powdermill Reservoir.
Yes, the area around Icklesham offers road cycling routes that can take you near some of the lakes and reservoirs. You can find various routes, including moderate ones like the 'National Cycle Route 2: Romney Marsh Loop'. For more details, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Icklesham guide.
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural settings, from the tranquil fishing opportunities at Mericks Fishing Lake to the scenic walks around Powdermill Reservoir. The well-laid-out Alexandra Park Pond is loved for its pleasant environment, and the quiet, long paths near Ecclesbourne Reservoir Forest Path are highly valued for their peaceful atmosphere.
Many outdoor areas in the UK are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific local signage or websites for each lake or nature reserve, especially regarding lead requirements or restricted areas, particularly in wildlife-sensitive zones like the Pannel Valley.
Yes, Powdermill Reservoir is known for its excellent network of paths that allow you to walk the entire way around the reservoir, offering a complete circular route in a tranquil setting.


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