Chichester Harbour

There aren’t many places in the UK that can claim to be both an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), but Chichester Harbour is one of them. This is a very special location, and it offers up so many things to see and do. Many visitors to Chichester Harbour come here time and time again, and it’s easy to see why. 

The waters are very sheltered here, a fact which helps to make it a haven for a wide range of wildlife. Keep an eye open for birds, especially, including the likes of plover, dunlin, curlew, oystercatcher, heron, avocet and of course gulls. Visitors also regularly see a group of harbour seals that make appearances here. It’s a good idea to bring binoculars with you, and a camera, too. 

Walkers love the many footpaths that take you around the harbour and onto the surrounding villages of Itchenor, Fishbourne, Bosham and others. On a warm summer’s day, it’s so easy to wander off and forget all about life’s stresses and strains. A pleasant stroll reminds you that days out in West Sussex don’t have to be all about non-stop excitement. 

In addition, you can always take to the water and enjoy the views. Chichester Harbour is a popular sailing venue, and there’s a solar-powered catamaran offering trips in the summer months. And there’s also an excellent ferry service that runs from Itchenor to Bosham, linking the footpaths.