Chichester Harbour AONB - map and other informations

Chichester Harbour is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), located on the South Coast of England, about 60 miles (96 km) southwest of London. It covers an area of 180 square kilometers and includes a large, shallow estuary that is fed by several small rivers, streams, and creeks. The harbor lies between the cities of Portsmouth and Chichester and is surrounded by rolling hills, salt marshes, and woodland.

The area has been designated an AONB since 1964, and it is widely regarded as one of the most picturesque and ecologically significant coastal regions in southern England. Visitors to Chichester Harbour can enjoy a wide range of activities and attractions, including nature walks, bird-watching, sailing, fishing, and cycling.

One of the most popular activities in Chichester Harbour is sailing. The harbor is home to several sailing clubs, and there are numerous opportunities for visitors to rent boats, take sailing lessons, or simply enjoy a leisurely ride on the water. The harbor is also popular with kayakers and paddleboarders, who can explore the sheltered creeks and inlets of the estuary.

The area around Chichester Harbour is rich in wildlife, and there are several nature reserves and bird-watching sites that are easily accessible to visitors. Some of the most popular include the RSPB Pagham Harbour Nature Reserve, the Chichester Canal Trust, and the Langstone Harbour Nature Reserve. Visitors can expect to see a wide variety of bird species, including avocet, lapwing, dunlin, and redshank, as well as seals, otters, and other aquatic wildlife.

For those interested in history, Chichester Harbour is home to several sites of historical interest, such as the Roman Palace at Fishbourne, the Chichester City Walls, and the ancient villages of Bosham and Emsworth. The area has been inhabited for thousands of years, and visitors can explore the rich cultural heritage of the region by visiting local museums and historical houses.

The Chichester Harbour AONB is also a great place for walking, hiking, and cycling. There are several designated footpaths and cycle routes that traverse the area, offering visitors the chance to explore the diverse landscape of the harbor and its surrounds. Some of the most popular routes include the Salterns Way Cycle Route, the South Downs Way, and the Monarch’s Way.

Overall, Chichester Harbour is a magnificent destination for travelers who want to experience the natural beauty and culture of coastal England. With its stunning scenery, rich wildlife, and diverse range of activities, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this idyllic corner of the country. Whether you want to sail the waters of the estuary or explore the ancient history of the region, Chichester Harbour has something to offer everyone.