Storrington Memorial Pond

The pond itself is modest - a shallow body of water surrounded by reeds and willow, the sort of place you'd walk past without thinking much if you didn't know what you were looking at. But that's precisely what makes Storrington Memorial Pond worth the detour from Pulborough. It's a working nature reserve, and that means proper birdwatching territory, especially in spring and autumn when migrating warblers stop to rest. The boardwalk lets you get close without disturbing anything, which is thoughtful design.

You'll want binoculars. Serious ones. This isn't a place for casual strolling - it rewards patience and attention. Great crested grebes nest here, and if you time it right you might see dragonflies in summer or overwintering wildfowl in winter. The whole visit takes maybe an hour, two if you're genuinely keen on identifying every bird that moves.

Families with very young children might find it a bit slow. Teenagers who already have nature podcast habits will love it. Walking groups doing the South Downs Way nearby would benefit from the break. It's free to access and admission details are loose - typical for a community-run reserve - so just turn up.

Based at Washington Caravan Park (closest at 2.5 miles), you're well-positioned for exploring the wider Pulborough area. Knepp Wildland Safaris is a short drive away if you fancy something more structured. But this pond works best as a quiet morning before heading elsewhere.