4.7
(1945)
12,945
hikers
421
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Arlington Reservoir are characterized by waterside paths, open fields, and gentle rural tracks, exploring the surrounding countryside. The landscape features a large body of open water with paths that follow a mix of paved and grassy tracks along its perimeter. The reservoir, created by damming the River Cuckmere, is a significant site for ornithological interest. Trails are generally flat with minimal elevation change, making them accessible for many.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
4.7
(10)
204
hikers
5.22km
01:21
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
6.22km
01:37
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
4
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
6.98km
01:49
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
101
hikers
3.21km
00:51
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A picturesque cut-through that saves you from going anywhere near the treacherous A27.
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The church is mentioned in the Domesday Book, the current church is 14th century church, of unknown dedication. It is built of chalk from the nearby South Downs
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Selmeston is the only local church, with a priest, to be mentioned in the Domesday Book. Unusually, the churchyard is circular, with complex ley lines centred on the font. The church was rebuilt in 1867 copying or re-using some detail from the mainly C13 and C14 original church.
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Decent cafe for a coffee or refuel - tempting whaff of bacon butties...
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Quite a retro pub with nice outdoor seating (front and back) and an excellent Ploughmans.
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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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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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Dating from at least Saxon times, St Pancras Church is a beautiful building in the village of Arlington. Evidence suggests there was a wooden construction on the site even before the Saxons arrived. In 1889, the church building underwent major restorations after the Bishop of Chichester declared it was 'in a state of ruin.'
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There are over 170 easy hiking trails around Arlington Reservoir, offering a wide variety of options for different preferences and fitness levels. The komoot community has explored more than 400 routes in total in the area.
Yes, many of the easy trails are circular. A popular option is the Arlington Reservoir – Arlington Reservoir loop from Berwick, which is 3.2 miles (5.2 km) and offers continuous waterside views.
Easy hikes around Arlington Reservoir feature waterside paths, open fields, and gentle rural tracks. The reservoir is a significant site for ornithological interest, home to over 170 species of birds, including herons, kingfishers, and even ospreys. You might also spot various alder and willow species, as well as scrub hawthorn. Bird hides, such as the Osprey Birdhide, are available for better viewing.
Yes, the trails are generally flat with minimal elevation change, making them highly accessible and suitable for families. The easy 3.2-mile loop around the reservoir is a great option for a family outing.
While the guide does not specify dog-friendly routes, many natural areas in the UK allow dogs on leads. It's always best to check local signage or the specific route details on komoot for any restrictions before heading out with your dog.
The easy trails primarily consist of waterside paths, open fields, and gentle rural tracks. You can expect a mix of paved and grassy tracks along the perimeter of the reservoir. The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation changes, making for comfortable walking.
Yes, you can combine reservoir views with historical interest. The Arlington Reservoir – St Pancras Church, Arlington loop from Berwick leads towards the historic St Pancras Church. Additionally, from some vantage points, you might catch views of the iconic Long Man of Wilmington carved into the South Downs.
Most easy hikes around Arlington Reservoir can be completed within 1 to 2 hours. For example, the popular 3.2-mile (5.2 km) loop around the reservoir typically takes about 1 hour 20 minutes.
The guide mentions routes starting from Berwick and Arlington, implying access points where parking is likely available. For specific parking details, it's recommended to check the individual route pages on komoot or local information boards upon arrival.
The easy trails around Arlington Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,700 reviews. Hikers often praise the beautiful open water views, the well-maintained waterside paths, and the gentle, accessible nature of the rural tracks.
The routes often start from locations like Berwick and Arlington. Berwick has a railway station, which could provide public transport access to the area. It's advisable to check local bus and train schedules for the most convenient options to reach your chosen trailhead.
The reservoir offers distinct experiences year-round. It's a significant site for wintering wigeon, making colder months excellent for birdwatching. Spring and summer provide lush scenery and pleasant walking conditions. Information boards around the lake can help identify points of interest and wildlife during any season.
While the guide doesn't list specific cafes or pubs, areas like Berwick and Arlington, which serve as starting points for many routes, typically offer amenities. It's a good idea to check local listings for refreshment options before or after your hike.
Yes, the reservoir forms part of longer trails like the Cuckmere Pilgrim Path, an 11-mile walk connecting ancient churches. It is also near the Vanguard Way and Wealdway, offering opportunities to extend your hike beyond the immediate reservoir area.


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