The Trundle
The Trundle is an Iron Age hill fort about 5km from Chichester. Set upon St. Roche's Hill, The Trundle (which means "circle" in old English) provides excellent views of the surrounding countryside.
On a sunny day, it's perfect for a picnic. Look out for Skylarks- tiny birds that hover high in the sky and sing while on the wing. Be warned, though- they are easier to hear than see!
This hill fort dates back to the Neolithic period and is a popular spot for walkers and those who enjoy the countryside. This location provides spectacular views of the Goodwood racecourse and is placed nicely within a part of Sussex, Hampshire and the English Channel.
On a clear day, one can see Beachy Head, over 45 miles away!
West Dean Gardens
At the foot of the beautiful South Downs, West Dean Gardens in West Sussex is a short bus ride or a two-hour walk (along the Centurion Way) from Chichester. It is one of the most splendid restored gardens open to the public.
Enjoy the tearoom (their cake selection is excellent), stroll through the gardens, including a walled garden, walk the extensive grounds, visit the historic house and make a day of it.
If you want to combine history with natural splendour, West Dean is well worth visiting!
Kingley Vale
Kingley Vale is a nature reserve well known by locals for its ancient yew tree collection, some over 500 years old. It is a great place to walk, picnic, or get some excellent photographs.
If you are interested in wildlife during your time at Kingley Vale, keep your eyes open for Red Kits and Buzzards.
The reserve is also the site of several ancient monuments, including the 'Devil's Hump' (Bronze Age burial mound) and 'Goosehill Camp' (an Iron Age settlement).
- Getting There: Take bus 54 from Chichester, and Kingley Vale is a 2-mile walk from Funtington Village. You can cycle there by taking the National Cycle Route (NCR 2) along the A259 road from Bosham and through East Ashling to West Stoke. Look for signs saying Kingley Vale NNR.
- Distance from Chichester: 5 km.
Location: Kingley Vale (NNR) South Downs National Park, Chichester
Car Park: Downs Rd, Chichester PO18 9BE
Halnaker Windmill
Halnaker Windmill is an iconic landmark perched on a hill overlooking the coast and local farmland. The walk to the top is lovely; you will pass through a tunnel of trees that opens up to chalky grassland at the top of the hill. In summer, it's an excellent place for photography.
From the top of the hill, you can see the straight line of the old Roman road as it passes through the trees on the other side.
The top of the hill is a perfect place for a picnic. In the surrounding grassland, rare plants such as the Pyramidal Orchid and the Common-Spotted Orchid can be seen, as can various species of butterflies, including the Marbled White, Common Blue, and Red Admirals.
If you enjoy bird-watching, look for Buzzards and listen for the singing skylarks as they fly high overhead.
Location: Denge Ln, Chichester PO18 0NF
Bognor Regis
Bognor began life as a fishing village until the 18th century, when it became a seaside resort. Bognor is located just 20 minutes (by train) from Chichester. Being a coastal town, Bognor welcomes thousands of visitors yearly to explore its shops, beach pier, amusement arcades and seafront.
Bognor has plenty to offer seaside visitors, such as the local restaurants, Pier, crazy golf on the seafront, museums and more! Bognor is known for its charming Promenade Train and Hotham Park; there is plenty to do.
Bognor is a unique town known for hosting the 'International Bognor Birdman' competition. The competition involves contestants dressed up as birds attempting to fly off the end of the pier into the sea for prize money. We wouldn't recommend this unless you are a natural at flying...
Each summer, Bognor is the home to Bognor Rox- a free music and art festival held over two days that attracts over 30,000 visitors.
