The best hikes from bus stations around Arlington Reservoir
4.7
(1945)
12,945
hikers
165
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Arlington Reservoir, located in East Sussex, UK, offer access to a 245-acre nature reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest. The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation changes, featuring waterside paths, open fields, and gentle rural tracks. Hikers can experience panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the notable Long Man of Wilmington. The area also connects to long-distance trails such as the Vanguard Way and Wealdway.
Best bus station hiking trails around Arlington Reservoir
- The most popular bus station hiking route is View from Wilmington Hill – Long Man of Wilmington loop from Long Man, a 7.7 miles (12.4 km) trail that takes 3 hours 31 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers views from Wilmington Hill and passes the Long Man of Wilmington.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Long Man of Wilmington – Wilmington Yew loop from Long Man, a moderate 6.8 miles (11.0 km) path. This trail features natural landscapes around the Wilmington Yew and offers views of the Long Man.
- Local hikers also love the Long Man of Wilmington – High Street, Alfriston loop from Long Man, a 6.8 miles (10.9 km) trail leading through rural tracks and connecting to Alfriston, often completed in about 3 hours 3 minutes.
- Hiking around Arlington Reservoir is defined by waterside paths, open fields, and views of the Long Man of Wilmington. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels.
- The routes in Arlington Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 1,700 reviews. More than 11,900 hikers have used komoot to explore Arlington Reservoir's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.7
(55)
170
hikers
12.4km
03:31
270m
270m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(22)
89
hikers
11.0km
03:08
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(4)
16
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
25
hikers
12.0km
03:31
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
6
hikers
8.79km
02:29
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Wonderful and mysterious!
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Beautiful little village with a couple of great shops for refuelling
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I can recommend visiting the Long Man of Wilmington (it isn't an ancient Fertility symbol more an artificial 17th century tourist attraction, more fool, the faux American witches I saw there several years ago). However I can't recommend leaving the Long Man pub down the road, at 7.30pm, in January, several days after it snowed and then several days of negative temperatures froze it in place, and then climb straight up past it. There is a path but we decided that would take far too long to divert to it. It was not surprisingly steep.
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About the patronage of this church: Saint ANDREW is one of the twelve apostles that Jesus Christ called to follow him. However, in the biblical accounts he is usually somewhat overshadowed by his much more famous brother: Saint Peter. In the Gospels we find the calling of the two siblings presented in different ways. According to the text of the Gospel of John (John 1:40-42), Andrew is called first (together with another disciple whose name is not mentioned). Later he tells his brother that he has found the Messiah. The feast of Saint Andrew in the calendar of saints is on November 30th in all major Christian denominations. The X-shaped white "St. Andrew's Cross" on which he was executed forms the national flag of Scotland against a blue background and has also found its way into the national flag of the United Kingdom of Great Britain.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are accessible from bus stations around Arlington Reservoir?
There are nearly 170 hiking routes around Arlington Reservoir that are easily accessible from various bus stations. These trails offer a diverse range of experiences, from easy strolls to more challenging moderate hikes, ensuring there's something for every skill level.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Arlington Reservoir?
The terrain around Arlington Reservoir is generally flat with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for accessible walks. You'll find a mix of waterside paths, open fields, and gentle rural tracks. Some sections are paved, while others are grassy, offering varied surfaces for your hike.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes accessible by bus near Arlington Reservoir?
Yes, there are many easy, family-friendly options. For a shorter, accessible walk, consider The Long Man of Wilmington – Long Man of Wilmington loop from Long Man. This easy 4.1 km route is perfect for families and offers a chance to see the iconic landmark.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails around Arlington Reservoir?
Yes, many trails around Arlington Reservoir are dog-friendly. The area's diverse landscapes, including open fields and waterside paths, provide excellent opportunities for walks with your canine companion. Always remember to keep dogs on a leash, especially near wildlife and livestock, and to clean up after them.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I can see on these hikes?
Hikers can enjoy a large body of open water and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. A prominent landmark is the iconic Long Man of Wilmington, a hill figure carved into the chalk downs. The reservoir itself is a haven for birdlife, with over 170 species recorded, and you might spot herons, kingfishers, or even ospreys from bird hides.
Are there any circular routes starting from bus stops near Arlington Reservoir?
Absolutely. Many routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point, often conveniently located near bus stops. A popular moderate circular route is the View from Wilmington Hill – Long Man of Wilmington loop from Long Man, which covers about 12.4 km.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails around Arlington Reservoir?
The trails around Arlington Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 1700 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the stunning views of the reservoir and the Long Man of Wilmington, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable walks.
Are there longer, more challenging hikes accessible by bus?
Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, there are moderate routes that extend further into the countryside. The Long Man of Wilmington – Wilmington Yew loop from Long Man is a moderate 11 km hike that offers more extensive exploration and varied scenery.
Are there places to eat or drink near the bus-accessible hiking trails?
Yes, the area around Arlington Reservoir offers amenities for visitors. There is an on-site café at the reservoir, perfect for a refreshment before or after your hike. Additionally, nearby villages accessible by bus may offer pubs or other eateries.
What is the best time of year to hike around Arlington Reservoir?
Arlington Reservoir offers enjoyable hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and active birdlife, while summer provides warm weather for waterside walks. Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, and even winter offers crisp, quiet trails, especially if you're prepared for cooler temperatures. The reservoir is an important migratory area for waterbirds, making it excellent for birdwatching in various seasons.
Do any of the bus-accessible routes connect to longer distance trails?
Yes, the area around Arlington Reservoir connects to several long-distance trails, including sections of the Vanguard Way and the Wealdway. It is also part of the Cuckmere Pilgrim Path, offering opportunities to extend your hike beyond the immediate reservoir area if you wish.
Most popular routes around Arlington Reservoir
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