Dell Quay, Chichester Harbour
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Chichester Harbour is one of the most tranquil and picturesque corners of West Sussex, comprising a cluster of charming, vibrant villages that are rich in history, natural beauty and local culture.
In November 2023, this former Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty was renamed Chichester Harbour National Landscape; one of the most important sites for wildlife in the United Kingdom, as well as being an active harbour for water users.
Start your coastal escape with a relaxing overnight stay at The Millstream Hotel, nestled in the heart of Bosham; a quintessential English village that’s steeped in history. It is one of the most photogenic spots on the south coast.
After breakfast, stroll across the hotel’s quaint footbridge, to turn right towards Bosham Walk Art & Craft Centre, where dozens of vendors sell a wide variety of homewares, ceramics, books, jewellery, photographs of local scenes, and more.
Next door you’ll find Bosham Sweets & Ice Cream selling delicious ice cream (an essential when you’re visiting the coast!), sweets from the jar, handmade fudge and chocolate treats from local company, Montezuma’s.
Head to either the Pop-in or Shoreside cafés (both owned by The Millstream), for a freshly-brewed coffee and homemade cake or savoury snack, before making your way to Bosham’s ancient church. The village’s winding lanes are lined with quirky cottages and you can meander towards the church either along High Street or the coastal road, depending on the state of the tide.
Don’t miss: If you drive to Bosham and park on the shore rather than the public car park, remember to check the tide times so that you don’t return to your vehicle and find it submerged.
Located a stone’s throw from the water’s edge, next to the green sward of Bosham Quay (owned by the National Trust), Holy Trinity Church is the oldest known place of worship in West Sussex, dating back to the seventh century. This Grade 1 listed, Anglican church is depicted in the world-famous Bayeux Tapestry. Locals believe that the story of King Canute commanding the tide to turn back, took place in this idyllic village.
If you’re a history buff, a visit to nearby Fishbourne Roman Palace (one of the most significant Roman archaeological sites in Britain) is a must. The site, located in Roman Way, Fishbourne, includes the remains of the palace’s intricate mosaic floors and beautiful gardens.
Having worked up an appetite, stop off at Chichester Marina for a tasty lunch at The Boathouse Café, where you can either sit inside or outdoors, and admire the harbour views.
Heading south, make your way to picture-perfect Itchenor for an amble along the scenic coastal path. Alternatively, explore Chichester Harbour on the solar-powered boat, Solar Heritage. Trips include nature and bird watching, and seal safaris. (Pre-book tickets through Chichester Harbour Conservancy website).
While gliding along on the eco-friendly boat, you may well spot the Itchenor Ferry, which runs from the public jetty at Itchenor to Ferry Hard at the foot of Smugglers Lane, Bosham, linking the footpaths. The ferry (fondly referred to by locals as the Itchy Bosom) operates between May to September, and weekends only during April, October and November. (£3pp, one way. Bikes 50p extra).
Look out for: Occasional static cycling sessions on the Solar Heritage in the summer months with Elaine Hart of Power is Bananas.
If you’d prefer to linger a little longer, drive to Sidlesham for a delicious meal at the stylish Crab & Lobster, or head back towards Chichester to the Crown & Anchor at Dell Quay. If you time it right, you may be lucky enough to catch a glorious sunset.
Head west to Prinsted, an off-the-beaten-track village, comprising characterful cottages and winding lanes that lead down to the shore and slipway. Walk through the gate on the right-hand side and, after a gentle stroll towards Thornham Marina, you’ll come across The Huts – ideal for a morning coffee and cake. (Monday to Friday, 10am – 3pm, Saturday and Sunday, 9am – 4pm)
To sample a taste of West Sussex, call in at Southbourne Farm Shop on Main Road, Southbourne. This family-run store prides itself on the quality of its produce, including fresh fruit and vegetables supplied by dozens of local businesses. There is also an artisan bakery and florist.
Don’t miss: Johnson’s fishmongers in the car park on Tuesdays and Fridays, between 11am and 2pm.
Have a pub lunch at The Blue Bell or The Ropemaker in Emsworth before taking a wander around the bustling town with its handsome Georgian properties and wealth of independent shops. Step into the past and join a fascinating guided history walk where you'll learn how Emsworth grew to be the main port in Chichester Harbour with a thriving oyster trade
Solar Heritage boat trips depart from the Quay in Emsworth during the winter months where you'll gently meander through the moored sailing boats taking in the lovely views of Chichester Harbour.
Don’t miss: Emsworth Museum in North Street. This fascinating museum, which is totally volunteer-run and funded, is dedicated to telling the story of Emsworth; its people, industries, triumphs and tragedies. (Free to visit, although donations are welcome. Open from Easter to October)
If you fancy stretching your legs, take a leisurely walk around Emsworth’s Mill Pond, or if you’re feeling more adventurous, continue past Emsworth Sailing Club and stroll further along the harbour’s edge, drinking in the coastal views.
From May to September, you can book an exhilarating guided trip aboard The Terror, a lovingly-restored Victorian oyster boat, which departs from Emsworth Yacht Club. Passengers are encouraged to take the helm and experience the thrill of sailing a traditional, wooden gaff-rigged boat.
Driftwood Café in High Street is open seven days a week, with a variety of places to eat, either inside or in the walled garden. Treat yourself to a scone with clotted cream and jam, cakes, pastries, or something savoury. (9am – 4.45pm)
Dinner options in and around Emsworth are plentiful, depending on your mood and budget.
36 on the Quay is an elegant, Michelin-starred restaurant offering tantalising, beautifully-presented cuisine and harbour views.
Fat Olives in South Street was originally a fisherman’s cottage, dating back to the 17th Century when smugglers once used the old passageways through the cellar. These days, this intimate restaurant has gained a reputation for its refined take on local produce.
A short drive away, you’ll find The Old House at Home in Cot Lane, Chidham. This traditional pub serves hearty meals in a welcoming atmosphere.
Tuppenny Barn on Main Road, Southbourne. It’s an education charity, located on an organic smallholding and has been featured on BBC Gardeners’ World. The shop sells fruit, vegetables, herbs, cut flowers and preserves, mostly grown or produced on site. (Open Thursdays, 9am –4pm).
WemsFest presents live music at venues in and around Emsworth throughout the year, including an annual Emsworth Beer, Cider & Wine Festival in September.
The annual Orvis Saltwater Fly Fishing Competition takes place in and around Chichester Harbour in June.
Great places to stay in Chichester Harbour: The Bosham Boathouse, The Millstream, The Ropemaker, 36 On The Quay
Great places to eat in Chichester Harbour: Anchor Bleu, The Blue Bell, The Boathouse Café, The Bosham Inn, The Crate Café, Crab & Lobster, Crown & Anchor, Driftwood Café, Fat Olives, The Huts, JJ's, Mamawu, Marwicks Brasserie, The Old House at Home, Pop-In Café, The Ropemaker, Sea School Restaurant, Shoreside Café, 36 OnThe Quay, Thyme and Chillies,
Great places to shop in Chichester Harbour: Bosham Gallery, Bosham Walk Arts & Craft Centre, Brilliant Gin, Dell Quay PYO, Southbourne Farm Shop, Tuppenny Barn,
The Millstream Hotel is a family owned 3 Silver Star hotel located in the beautiful village of…
One of our area's most popular pubs, The Crown & Anchor's location on the edge of the…
Nestled on the shores of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), within the scenic Chichester…
By Car: Via the A3 or A286 from the north and A27 from east and west.
By Rail: There are train stations in Bosham, Fishbourne, Nutbourne, Southbourne and Emsworth and they are on the direct Southern Railway line to London Victoria and Portsmouth. There is also a direct line between Brighton and Emsworth.
By Bus: No 700 Stagecoach Bus Route between Portsmouth and Chichester connects Nutbourne, Prinsted, Southbourne and Emsworth. The No 56 Stagecoach Bus Route runs between Chichester, Fishbourne, Bosham, Chidham, Nutbourne and Southbourne.
London: 75 miles (120 km)
Portsmouth International Port: 14 miles (22.5km)
Gatwick: 52 miles (83 km)
Port of Dover: 128 miles (206 km)