Lakes around Laughton, East Sussex, offer diverse natural and man-made water features within a landscape characterized by woodlands and nature reserves. This region provides opportunities for walking and observing wildlife. The area includes sites of scientific interest and historical significance, with several lakes serving as focal points for outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 16, 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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Stand up on your bike to see this natural pool over the wall on your left!
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A scenic fishing lake and nice spot to stop and refuel.
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A good spot to stop refuel and take in the surroundings. There is a car park and it can get busy on a nice day.
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Among the most popular lakes in the Laughton area is Arlington Reservoir, a designated Local Nature Reserve known for birdwatching. Other loved spots include Jill's Pond, an artificial dew pond with views of Lewes, and Piltdown Pond, a scenic fishing lake popular for its ducks.
Yes, several lakes in the Laughton area are suitable for families. Arlington Reservoir, Jill's Pond, and Piltdown Pond are all categorized as family-friendly. Additionally, Buxted Park Manor House, with its artificial lake and deer park, offers a great family amble, as does the Wilmington Woods Bluebell Walk.
The lakes around Laughton are rich in wildlife. Arlington Reservoir is a Local Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest, making it a prime spot for birdwatching where you might see cormorants, swallows, mallards, coots, Canadian geese, and black swans, especially from the Osprey bird hide. Piltdown Pond is known for its ducks, and Buxted Park Manor House is home to a large herd of deer and exotic birds.
Yes, the area offers various walking opportunities. Arlington Reservoir is set within 120 acres of green landscape, providing pleasant walks. The Wilmington Woods Bluebell Walk is particularly enchanting in warmer months when bluebells transform the woodland trails. For more structured routes, you can explore easy hikes around the region, with options available on komoot's guide to Easy hikes around Laughton.
Absolutely. The Laughton area is well-suited for cycling. You can find various routes for touring bicycles and road cycling. For example, komoot offers guides like Cycling around Laughton and Road Cycling Routes around Laughton, which include routes passing by or near some of the lakes and scenic spots in the region.
Yes, the region combines natural beauty with historical significance. Arlington Reservoir is a designated Local Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest. Jill's Pond is a notable example of the artificial dew ponds scattered across the South Downs, historically used for livestock. Buxted Park Manor House features a deer park dating back to 1199 and is a 206-acre Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Yes, parking is available at some locations. For instance, Piltdown Pond has a car park, though it can get busy on nice days. It's always a good idea to check specific location details for parking availability before your visit.
The lakes around Laughton offer beauty year-round, but certain times highlight different aspects. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the full greenery and wildlife, with the Wilmington Woods Bluebell Walk being particularly stunning when the bluebells are in bloom. Birdwatching at Arlington Reservoir is also excellent during migration seasons.
Many outdoor areas around Laughton are dog-friendly, but it's important to check specific regulations for each lake or nature reserve. For example, while Arlington Reservoir is a popular walking spot, there might be restrictions or guidelines regarding dogs, especially in sensitive wildlife areas. Always keep dogs on a lead where required and clean up after them.
Visitors frequently appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of the lakes. Many enjoy the abundant wildlife, especially the birdwatching opportunities at Arlington Reservoir. The scenic views, such as those from Jill's Pond overlooking Lewes, and the peaceful atmosphere for walks are also highly valued.
While specific cafes directly adjacent to every lake are not detailed, the Laughton area, being in East Sussex, has villages and towns nearby that offer pubs and cafes. It's advisable to check local amenities in places like Laughton village or nearby towns for refreshment stops during your visit.
The Laughton region features a diverse range of water bodies. You'll find natural reservoirs like Arlington Reservoir, artificial lakes such as the one at Buxted Park Manor House, and traditional dew ponds like Jill's Pond, which are artificial bodies of water designed to provide for livestock.


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