Just a short drive inland from Eastbourne, near Polegate, Arlington Reservoir offers one of the most relaxing nature walks in the area: an easy circular trail around a tranquil lake, alive with birdsong and framed by rolling South Downs countryside. A haven for birdwatchers and a lovely spot for a gentle family stroll, here’s your guide.
The reservoir
Arlington Reservoir was created in 1971, when a dam was built across the River Cuckmere and one of its meanders was cleverly cut off to form the lake. Today it supplies drinking water to Eastbourne, Hailsham, Polegate and beyond, but it’s also a designated Local Nature Reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, with more than 30,000 native trees planted around its edges. Peaceful and picturesque, it’s become one of the best-loved nature spots in this corner of Sussex.
Did you know? When the reservoir was being excavated, workers unearthed Ice Age treasures — a mammoth tusk, a bison horn and the skull of a woolly rhinoceros, some dating back around 250,000 years.
The circular walk
The main attraction is the Osprey Trail, an easy circular walk of around two miles (roughly 3km) that loops the water in about an hour or two at a gentle pace. The path is part paved and part grassy track, taking you past wildflower meadows, through attractive woodland and along the top of the dam wall — from where, on a clear day, you can spot the Long Man of Wilmington carved into the distant hillside. Eight numbered waymarkers and information boards guide you round, each highlighting the wildlife to look out for, and there’s a pond-dipping platform where children can hunt for newts and frogs.
Birds and wildlife
Arlington is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with well over 170 species recorded. A bird hide, reached by a short woodland path at the northern end, offers a perfect vantage point. In winter the water fills with wildfowl such as wigeon, shoveler and great crested grebe, while herons, kingfishers, woodpeckers and even barn owls can be spotted around the reserve year-round. The real stars, though, are the ospreys: these magnificent birds of prey pause here to fish on their spring and autumn migrations, giving the trail its name. Beneath the surface, the reservoir is a well-stocked trout fishery too.
Getting there and facilities
Arlington Reservoir sits near Berwick and Polegate, around a 20-minute drive from Eastbourne — head towards the Drusillas roundabout on the A27 and follow the signs north for Berwick Station and Upper Dicker. There’s a car park with public toilets and a kiosk selling coffee and cake, and Berwick railway station, on the Eastbourne–Lewes line, is within walking distance for car-free visitors. It’s a great spot for dogs, though leads are wise near the grazing ponies and wildlife.
Good to know: The car park is fairly small and fills up quickly at weekends and during holidays, so arriving earlier or later in the day is your best bet for a peaceful visit.
What’s nearby
The reservoir sits in a cluster of lovely rural attractions. The ancient woodland of Abbot’s Wood is close by, as is the famous Arlington Bluebell Walk at nearby Bates Green Farm, a springtime spectacle of woodland flowers. The pretty village of Arlington has a fascinating medieval church, and the moated Michelham Priory and family favourite Drusillas Park are both just up the road.
Arlington Reservoir: FAQs
How long is the walk around Arlington Reservoir?
The circular Osprey Trail is around two miles (about 3km), taking roughly one to two hours at a gentle pace. It’s easy and family-friendly.
Where is Arlington Reservoir?
Near Berwick and Polegate, about a 20-minute drive from Eastbourne via the A27 and the Drusillas roundabout. Berwick station is within walking distance.
Can you see ospreys at Arlington Reservoir?
Sometimes — ospreys pause here to fish during their spring and autumn migrations, roughly between March and October, which is how the Osprey Trail got its name.
Is it good for families and dogs?
Yes — the flat, well-marked trail suits families, and it’s a popular dog-walking spot, though leads are sensible near the grazing ponies and nesting birds.
More countryside close by: the woodland trails of Abbot’s Wood, the ancient Long Man of Wilmington, and the best walks around Eastbourne.