Walkers can now enjoy the latest section of the King Charles III England Coast Path which stretches from Hayling Island in the west to the dunes of East Head at West Wittering in the east, taking in the shores of Chichester Harbour and its pretty waterside villages along the way.
This new 35 mile section of the coast path showcases the stunning scenery of Chichester Harbour, where land and sea meet in striking harmony. The route traces the harbour’s unique network of tidal creeks, winding its way past islands and headlands set within a patchwork of wildlife-rich environments, especially broad areas of saltmarsh and exposed mudflats, which are crucial habitats for nature.
Combined sections which are already complete on the south coast, walkers can now explore over 210 continuous miles of coast path between Calshot in Hampshire and Rye Harbour in East Sussex. When complete, the coast path will become the world’s longest managed coastal path stretching almost 2,700 miles.
Hayling Island to West Wittering: King Charles III England Coast Path
This new stretch of the King Charles III England Coast path can be walked in either direction but walking west to east, walkers will explore the dunes and grassy stretches of Sandy Point at Hayling Island’s south-eastern tip before entering the waters of Chichester Harbour. The route continues north along Hayling Island’s eastern edge and crosses Langstone Bridge to the mainland, then winds around Langstone and the charming village of Emsworth. The lesser known, peaceful and undeveloped peninsula of Thorney Island is next - home to a military base, it is also a quiet haven for birdwatchers and already popular with walking enthusiasts. Further east lie the Chidham and Bosham peninsulas, both known for their stunning views.
The route also includes a crossing of the Chichester Channel by the foot ferry to Itchenor then meanders towards East Head, an impressive and ever-changing system of sand dunes at the very tip of the sandy shoreline of West Wittering Beach.
Walkers keen to explore this new coast path can find more information here - click the Portsmouth to Selsey Bill tab then scroll to find South Hayling to East Head route description. You can also explore an interactive map showing the path on the south coast.
Image: Chichester Harbour Conservancy