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Motcombe Gardens and Pool

4.5
·216 reviews·, United Kingdom

A tranquil urban oasis featuring a crystal-clear pond filtered by a chalk stream, abundant wildlife, and picturesque gardens.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Vibrant leaf colors

CrowdLow
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Motcombe Gardens & Pool - Image 1

Motcombe Gardens and Pool

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Vibrant leaf colors

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil urban oasis featuring a crystal-clear pond filtered by a chalk stream, abundant wildlife, and picturesque gardens.

4.5
(216 reviews)

"A lovely little park with a beautiful clear water pond which is filtered by the chalk of the underground river."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ No On-Site Toilets

Plan ahead as there are no restrooms within the gardens. Nearby Waitrose or Gildredge Park are options.

🍂 Autumn Leaf Spectacle

Visit in fall for a stunning display of colored leaves covering the park.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Chalk-Filtered Pond

The Chalk-Filtered Pond

Central pond

A crystal-clear pond, naturally filtered by the Bourne Stream. Watch ducks paddle and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Vibrant Autumn Foliage

Vibrant Autumn Foliage

Throughout the gardens

The park transforms into a carpet of color during autumn, with leaves creating a picturesque scene.

Bowling Green

Bowling Green

Adjacent to the gardens

A well-maintained bowling green offering a glimpse into local leisure activities. A great spot for relaxation.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tranquility

Motcombe Gardens and Pool offers a peaceful escape. While generally quiet, some traffic noise can be heard. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon, but note there are no on-site restrooms.

Wildlife and Water Wonders

This charming park features a clear pond, naturally filtered by an underground chalk stream. It's a haven for wildlife, with ducks often seen enjoying the water. The gardens are particularly beautiful when covered in autumn leaves.

Best Times

When
Autumn mornings
Why
Vibrant leaf colors
Crowd
Low
When
Spring afternoons
Why
Blooming flowers
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Local community vibe
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A guide to #eastbourne and my genius plan to save seaside towns! #seaside #PlacesToVisit #ukcomedy #britishhumour #LearnOnTikTok #satire
@philc84
46.8K likes • 597.9K views

🚶‍♀️ No On-Site Toilets

Plan ahead as there are no restrooms within the gardens. Nearby Waitrose or Gildredge Park are options. Reddit

🍂 Autumn Leaf Spectacle

Visit in fall for a stunning display of colored leaves covering the park. Reddit

my day trip to seven sisters from london! 🌊🇬🇧✨ #sevensisters #londonlife #daytripsfromlondon #london #beachyhead #eastbourne #seaford #uk #sevensisterscliffs #londondaytrip
@josylopezz
22.8K likes • 461.2K views
#brightonmarina #brighton #brightonandhove #eastbourne #eastbournemarina #sovereign harbour #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #boat #yacht #houseboat #lewes
@boatcaresussex
3.6K likes • 393.5K views

🦆 Wildlife Spotting

Keep an eye out for ducks and other local wildlife enjoying the clear pond. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Peaceful Atmosphere

Ideal for a quiet escape and relaxation, though some traffic noise may be present. Reddit

Kallum just being to iconic 💁🏼‍♀️😜#fypage #fyppp #viral_video #eastbourne #iconic
@tilz.austinn
1.8K likes • 24.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ No On-Site Toilets

Plan ahead as there are no restrooms within the gardens. Nearby Waitrose or Gildredge Park are options. Reddit

🍂 Autumn Leaf Spectacle

Visit in fall for a stunning display of colored leaves covering the park. Reddit

🦆 Wildlife Spotting

Keep an eye out for ducks and other local wildlife enjoying the clear pond. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Peaceful Atmosphere

Ideal for a quiet escape and relaxation, though some traffic noise may be present. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(216 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Motcombe Gardens is widely praised as a lovely, pretty, and relaxing spot with a beautiful, clear pond and abundant wildlife. Visitors appreciate its tranquil energy and the picturesque autumn foliage. The main drawback noted is the lack of on-site restrooms, and occasional traffic noise.

"I give Motcombe Gardens a 4.5. It's a lovely little spot, very pretty and relaxing. Just lost 0.5 as I can hear some traffic noise just a little, but in general it's a definite peaceful place"

Alistair Houston

"Really lovely little park with a beautiful clear water pond which is filtered by the chalk of the underground river. Wildlife is abundant and there is a lovely energy to the place. Unfortunately there are no toilets but the nearby Waitrose or Gildredge park aren't too far away."

Alix

"Cute little park covered in coloured leaves. The pond is nice and clean. Ducklings are enjoying it 😊"

Gabriela Šedivá

What People Like

Beautiful clear pond
Abundant wildlife
Peaceful and relaxing atmosphere

What People Dislike

No on-site toilets
Occasional traffic noise

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Motcombe Gardens is located in Eastbourne. It's accessible by local bus routes that serve the Motcombe area. Parking may be available nearby, but public transport is often recommended for ease. TikTok

While accessible by car, parking availability can vary. It's advisable to check local parking regulations or consider public transport options to avoid any hassle. TikTok

From Eastbourne town center, you can typically take a local bus service towards the Motcombe area. A short walk from the bus stop will lead you to the gardens. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Motcombe Gardens and Pool is a public park and generally free to enter. Enjoy the natural beauty without any admission cost. Reddit

As a public park, Motcombe Gardens is typically open from dawn until dusk. It's a great spot for a morning stroll or an evening relaxation. Reddit

The bowling green is part of the park and can be used by locals. For specific club bookings or events, it's best to inquire with the local bowls club. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The park is known for its abundant wildlife, particularly ducks that frequent the clear pond. You might also spot other local bird species. Reddit+1

Unfortunately, there are no on-site toilets or cafes within Motcombe Gardens. Visitors are advised to use facilities at nearby establishments like Waitrose or Gildredge Park. Reddit

Yes, Motcombe Gardens is a lovely spot for picnics. There are plenty of seating areas available, making it ideal for enjoying a meal outdoors. Reddit

The Bourne Stream is believed to be the source that feeds the pond in Motcombe Gardens. It's a natural underground chalk stream that contributes to the pond's clarity. Reddit

While specific rules can vary, public parks generally welcome well-behaved dogs. It's always a good idea to check local signage or guidelines for pet policies. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The clear pond with ducks, the vibrant autumn foliage, and the serene garden paths offer excellent photographic opportunities. Capture the tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty. Reddit+1

Absolutely! The pond, the ducks, and the changing seasonal colors make it a delightful location for nature photography enthusiasts. Reddit+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Motcombe Gardens is a lovely spot for families looking for a peaceful outing. The clear pond with ducks is sure to delight children, offering a simple yet engaging nature experience. It's a great place for a picnic, with plenty of seating available. Reddit+1

While there are no playgrounds or specific child-focused amenities, the open space and natural beauty provide a calming environment. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as there are no cafes on-site, and plan for restroom breaks at nearby facilities. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Relaxation Seekers

For solo travelers seeking a moment of peace, Motcombe Gardens is an ideal destination. The tranquil atmosphere and the gentle presence of wildlife create a perfect setting for quiet contemplation or simply enjoying a good book. Reddit+1

The clear pond and the well-kept gardens offer a visually pleasing and calming environment. While some traffic noise might be audible, it generally doesn't detract from the overall sense of serenity. It’s a place to recharge and escape the hustle and bustle. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Nature Enthusiasts

Photographers will find Motcombe Gardens a charming subject, especially during autumn when the foliage is at its peak. The clear pond, often dotted with ducks, provides excellent opportunities for capturing serene nature shots. Reddit+1

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the natural filtration of the pond by the Bourne Stream and the abundant local wildlife. It’s a small but delightful spot to observe and photograph the natural world in a peaceful urban setting. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enchanting Pond and Its Source

The centerpiece of Motcombe Gardens is its beautiful, clear pond. What makes it particularly special is its natural filtration system, believed to be fed by the underground chalk stream known as the Bourne Stream. This natural process keeps the water remarkably clean, creating a pristine environment for the abundant wildlife, especially the ducks that call it home. Visitors often remark on the lovely energy and tranquility of this aquatic feature. Reddit+1

During autumn, the pond area becomes even more picturesque as the surrounding trees shed their leaves, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The reflections on the water, combined with the vibrant colors of the fallen foliage, make it a photographer's delight. It’s a simple yet captivating natural wonder that draws people to the gardens. Reddit+1

A Hub for Local Leisure: The Bowling Green

Adjacent to the gardens, you'll find a well-maintained bowling green. This facility serves as a hub for local community activities, offering a glimpse into traditional leisure pursuits. Visitors have shared positive experiences of enjoying a game of bowls in this pleasant setting, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere of the club. Reddit

Even if you're not a bowler, the presence of the green adds to the overall charm of Motcombe Gardens. It provides a space for recreation and social interaction, contributing to the park's friendly and peaceful ambiance. It’s a reminder of the simple pleasures and community spirit found in local parks. Reddit

Understanding the Park's Vibe and Amenities

Motcombe Gardens is cherished by locals for its peaceful and friendly atmosphere. It’s a place where residents can unwind, enjoy nature, and connect with their community. The gardens are particularly noted for their beauty during the autumn months when the leaves create a colorful carpet. Reddit+1

However, it's important for visitors to be aware of the limited facilities. There are no on-site restrooms, which means planning ahead is essential. Nearby options like Waitrose or Gildredge Park can be used if needed. Despite this, the park's tranquil setting and natural charm make it a worthwhile visit for those seeking a quiet retreat. Reddit

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