Chichester Harbour

For Chichester Harbour read Land and Sea. Set against a backdrop of the South Downs National Park, in West Sussex, the harbour’s tidal channels lead to a maze of inlets and creeks that criss-cross the saltmarsh and mudflats. These are visited by many thousands of waders and wildfowl and a colony of harbour seals. Boat trips let you explore this watery wilderness, 60 miles of footpaths take you inland. Shingle beach and sand dunes are edged with wind-blasted oaks in ancient woodland including Old Park Wood and Salters Copse. Many of the creeks lead to villages such as Bosham, said to be the prettiest of the harbour villages, and reputed to be the site of King Canute’s attempt to stop the tide. Some of the settlements date back to Roman times, including Fishbourne with its Roman palace and fascinating museum. West Wittering is popular for its sandy beaches. So to the city of Chichester, with its 900-year-old cathedral, world renowned Festival Theatre and the stately homes of Uppark and Parham and, of course, ‘Glorious Goodwood’.  A small but fascinating part of England.