Best lakes around Tarring Neville. Tarring Neville is a village in East Sussex, characterized by rolling hills, fields, and its border along the River Ouse, situated within the South Downs. While prominent natural lakes are not directly within its boundaries, the area offers access to notable water bodies nearby. Arlington Reservoir, located approximately 1 mile southwest, is a significant example, serving as a Local Nature Reserve and a water source for millions.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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Peaceful and surprisingly scenic cut through that offers a different side of Lewes.
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Decent cafe for a coffee or refuel - tempting whaff of bacon butties...
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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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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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A scenic river valley country park set in rolling farmland alongside grass topped white chalk cliffs in the South Downs National Park. It’s most famous for the iconic Seven Sisters (Haven Brow, Short Brow, Rough Brow, Brass Brow, Flat Brow, Bailey’s Hill and Went Hill) and for the ox-bow lake on the River Ouse, which could have come out of a geography school book!
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Stand up on your bike to see this natural pool over the wall on your left!
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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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A fantastic example of the dew ponds that are scattered across the South Downs. Dew ponds are artificially made bodies of water, typically at the top of hills that are well-draining, to make sure that there is water availability for livestock. Interesting little spot with great views of Lewes.
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Around Tarring Neville, you can explore a variety of water bodies including large reservoirs, scenic oxbow lakes, and historic dew ponds. Each offers a distinct experience, from nature reserves to unique man-made features.
For excellent birdwatching opportunities, visit Arlington Reservoir. It's a designated Local Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest, featuring an Osprey bird hide on its northwest bank. You can spot various species like cormorants, swallows, mallards, coots, Canadian geese, and black swans.
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. Arlington Reservoir, Oxbow Lake on the River Ouse, and Jill's Pond are all categorized as family-friendly. These locations offer natural beauty and space for outdoor enjoyment.
Beyond the lakes themselves, you can discover unique natural features such as the iconic oxbow lake on the River Ouse, set within a scenic river valley country park. Additionally, Jill's Pond is a fantastic example of an artificially made dew pond, historically used to provide water for livestock on the South Downs.
Yes, the area offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can find trails ranging from moderate to difficult, such as the 'Telscombe village loop from Southease' or the 'South Downs: Swanborough Hill and Lewes' route. For more details on hiking routes, visit our Hiking around Tarring Neville guide.
Absolutely. There are various routes suitable for running and cycling. For runners, options include the 'Seaford Beach – Ouse Estuary Trail loop'. Cyclists can explore routes like the 'Newhaven Harbour – Ouse Estuary Nature Reserve loop'. Find more routes in our Running Trails around Tarring Neville and Cycling around Tarring Neville guides.
The warmer months are particularly enchanting, especially if you visit Wilmington Woods, where bluebells magically transform the woodland trails. Generally, spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the lakes and surrounding countryside.
Yes, Pells Pool in Lewes 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 unique swimming experience.
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse wildlife, especially at Arlington Reservoir, and the scenic beauty of the South Downs National Park, as seen around the Oxbow Lake on the River Ouse. The unique historical aspect of dew ponds like Jill's Pond also captures interest.
Yes, the Wilmington Woods Bluebell Walk is a charming option. Located near Arlington, these woods are particularly beautiful in the warmer months when bluebells bloom, offering enchanting woodland trails.
While Tarring Neville itself is a small village, public transport options exist to reach the broader South Downs area and nearby towns like Newhaven, which is approximately one mile southwest. From these points, you can access various trails and lake areas. Specific public transport details for each lake may vary.
While Arlington Reservoir is popular for birdwatching, smaller spots like Jill's Pond or exploring the wider River Ouse valley might offer a more tranquil experience, especially outside peak times.


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