If you’re looking for a great way to explore the beautiful city of Chichester, then you’re in luck!
There are plenty of amazing walks and hikes that will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the area.
From the picturesque Chichester Canal Walk to the tranquil Chidham and Hambrook Stroll, there’s something here for everyone.
I’ve put together a list of the 15 best walks in Chichester that are both enjoyable and informative.
So grab your walking boots and let’s go exploring!
Chichester Canal Walk
Take a stroll along the beautiful Chichester Canal and explore the sights and sounds of the charming city! The winding canal path makes for a pleasant, scenic walk and is a great way to spend a sunny day.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to views of the city’s historic buildings, including the iconic Chichester Cathedral. The path also offers many opportunities for bird watching, with a wide variety of species living in and around the canal. You’ll also find plenty of benches and other places to rest and take in the beautiful views.
The walk is also a great way to explore some of the city’s hidden gems, such as the impressive Roman ruins at Fishbourne Roman Palace. The Palace is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Britain and is a must-see for history and architecture buffs.
The canal also passes by a variety of restaurants, pubs, and shops, so you can take a break and refuel with some local delicacies. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more strenuous hike, Chichester Canal is the perfect destination.
Chichester Cathedral Walk
Meander through the grandeur of the ancient Chichester Cathedral for an awe-inspiring journey. Built in 1091, Chichester Cathedral is a stunning example of the Gothic style and one of the finest cathedrals in England. With its soaring towers, grand stained glass windows, and intricate carvings, the cathedral is an impressive sight.
As you explore the grounds, admire the amazing architecture, and wander through the peaceful courtyards, you will be struck by the feeling of reverence and awe.
The walk around the cathedral is a great way to get a sense of the history and beauty of the building. Visit the magnificent Chapter House, the serene Cloister Garden, and the impressive West Tower.
You can also take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the cathedral and to experience it up close. Whether you take a guided tour or explore the grounds on your own, a walk around Chichester Cathedral is sure to leave you with a lasting impression of beauty and wonder.
Climping Beach Walk
Explore the stunning beauty of Climping Beach on a leisurely stroll! Located just a short drive from the beautiful city of Chichester, Climping Beach is the perfect spot for a peaceful, relaxing walk.
The beach is a mix of sand and shingle and stretches for two miles, giving plenty of room to explore. The views are breathtaking, as the beach is backed by rolling hills and meadows.
At low tide, the beach uncovers plenty of tidal pools, perfect for exploring and looking out for sea creatures such as crabs and starfish. There’s also an abundance of birdlife, including seagulls, oystercatchers, and even the occasional kestrel.
As you make your way along the beach, be sure to take time to sit and take in the incredible views. Whether you’re looking for a restorative walk or a place for a picnic, Climping Beach is a great destination.
Chichester Harbour Walk
Stroll along Chichester Harbour and take in the stunning views of the harbour and its islands! This is one of the best walks in the area, with plenty of spots to enjoy a picnic or simply sit and take in the beauty of this picturesque location.
The walk around the harbour is an easy three-mile trail, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The route takes you along the harbour edge and across to the islands, where you can spot a variety of wildlife, including seabirds, ducks, and swans.
The full route takes around two hours, but you can always take a detour and explore the surrounding area. Pack a picnic and take your time to enjoy the views of the harbour from the comfort of a bench or beach rock.
The beach is a great spot for a swim or a paddle, so don’t forget your swimming gear! The walk is a perfect way to spend an afternoon and take in the sights and sounds of the harbour.
Chidham and Hambrook Stroll
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Chidham and Hambrook on this tranquil stroll!
This gentle walk takes you along the banks of the Chichester Harbour, where you can observe the stunning views of the Chichester Harbour Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
You’ll also be able to explore the local wildlife, with rare species of birds making the area their home.
The walk itself is about 3 miles long, and takes around 2 hours to complete.
Along the way, you’ll be able to admire the picturesque villages of Chidham and Hambrook, as well as local landmarks such as the St. John the Baptist Church.
You’ll also pass by the ancient Hambrook Mill which has been standing since the 13th Century.
With all these sights to take in, this is the perfect way to get some fresh air and experience the natural beauty of Chichester.
South Downs Way
Discover the beauty of the South Downs Way on your hiking adventure!
With breathtaking views of the rolling hills and lush countryside, this iconic trail will take you through some of the most stunning scenery in the UK.
From the majestic Seven Sisters cliffs to the lush green hills of the South Downs National Park, you’ll be able to explore some of the most beautiful locations in the area.
On your hike, you’ll be able to take in the fresh air and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
You’ll also be able to spot an array of wildlife, including rare birds and small mammals.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike, the South Downs Way is the perfect way to experience the great outdoors.
With its rolling hills, charming villages, and stunning views, it’s no wonder that the South Downs Way is one of the best walking spots in Chichester.
Lavant Valley Walk
Meander through the picturesque Lavant Valley on the Lavant Valley Walk for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
This spectacular walk offers a variety of attractions that will captivate your senses.
Start your journey at the historic city of Chichester and you’ll be taken through rolling hills, stunning woodland, and open grasslands.
You’ll be able to spot a variety of wildlife and plants along the way, including wildflowers, birds, and other animals.
There are also plenty of quaint villages and local pubs to explore, allowing you to get a true sense of the area.
The walk is suitable for all levels of fitness, with plenty of resting spots and amenities available.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an energetic hike, you can find it here.
Enjoy the views, take in the fresh air, and breathe in the tranquility of this beautiful area.
Fishbourne Roman Palace Walk
Leaving the Lavant Valley and heading two miles south of Chichester, I’m now exploring the Fishbourne Roman Palace Walk.
This scenic, two-mile walk along the shoreline of Chichester Harbour is a great way to take in the beauty of the local area.
The route takes in some of the highlights of the area, including the Fishbourne Roman Palace, the largest Roman villa ever discovered in Britain, and the nearby Fishbourne Church.
Along the way, you can also take in some of the local wildlife, including the Chichester Harbour Oystercatcher, a species of wading bird.
The walk is suitable for all levels of fitness, and you won’t need to worry about the terrain as it is mostly flat.
There are also plenty of information boards along the way, which offer insights into the history of the area and its wildlife.
You can also explore the local pubs and restaurants, as well as take a boat trip around the harbour and watch the local sailing boats.
All in all, the Fishbourne Roman Palace Walk is a great way to get out and explore the beauty of Chichester.
Cocking Loop
Exploring the Cocking Loop, you’ll find yourself taking in the stunning views of the South Downs National Park. This 8-mile loop is a perfect walk for those looking to get out and experience the beauty of nature while getting some exercise.
The walk starts in the village of Cocking and leads you to the nearby village of West Lavington. Along the way, you’ll pass through rolling hills, woodlands, and open fields. You’ll also have the opportunity to spot some wildlife, such as deer, birds, and foxes.
The Cocking Loop is also well-known for its wildflowers and stunning views of the South Downs. This is a great walk for those who want to take in the sights and sounds of the great outdoors without having to go too far.
With a good map and some sturdy shoes, you’ll be ready to embark on your journey and take in all the beauty that the Cocking Loop has to offer.
Itchenor Circular
The Itchenor Circular offers a delightful stroll around the picturesque village of Itchenor, located just outside of Chichester. The meandering pathway takes you along the banks of the Chichester Canal, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The route passes by the local pub, the Ship Inn, and the 12th century church of St. Nicholas, providing a great opportunity to soak up some of the area’s history.
The route then continues along the banks of the canal, where you can see a wide variety of wildlife, including ducks, swans, and geese.
The Itchenor Circular is a great way to explore the area and enjoy some fresh air. The walk is suitable for all levels of fitness and can be completed in approximately one hour.
The route is mostly flat and well maintained, making it perfect for families or those looking for a leisurely stroll.
Chalton and Goodwood Circular
Embark on an adventure and take a stroll around the beautiful countryside of Chalton and Goodwood with the Chalton and Goodwood Circular.
This stroll takes you through the picturesque villages of Chalton and Goodwood, showing you some of the most stunning views of the South Downs. You will be able to take in the rolling hills, lush green fields, and the wonderful vistas of the area.
Along the way, you will also get to experience some of the rural culture and country life, with charming old churches, cottages, and pubs.
The walk itself is around 8 miles, so it’s a great way to get out and explore the area. You’ll also pass through some of the unique woodlands and areas of heathland, so make sure you bring your camera to capture all the beauty.
The walk is also a great way to work up an appetite for a nice lunch or dinner in one of the local pubs or restaurants.
All in all, the Chalton and Goodwood Circular is a great way to experience the beauty of the South Downs.
Dell Piece and West Dean Woods Walk
Discover the beauty of Dell Piece and West Dean Woods on a delightful walk through the stunning West Sussex countryside.
This 6 mile circular walk takes you through the tranquil Dell Piece, past a picturesque lake, and through the stunning West Dean Woods.
Starting at the Dell Piece car park, the route takes you around the ancient woodland of Dell Piece and the picturesque South Pond.
Along the way, you’ll be able to spot a variety of wildlife including woodpeckers, badgers, and rabbits.
After passing the lake, you’ll enter the ancient woodlands of West Dean Woods, surrounded by a wide variety of trees and wildflowers.
The beauty of the landscape is further enhanced by the occasional views of the rolling hills of the South Downs.
At the end of the walk, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of the city of Chichester, making it the perfect end to your walk.
Chichester City Walls Walk
Explore Chichester’s historic city walls on this unique and captivating journey through the city.
Begin your adventure at the iconic Chichester Cross and take a leisurely stroll around the city’s walls, which boast a rich and varied history.
Admire the beautiful architecture of the city, including the Cathedral and the Bishop’s Palace, as you pass by.
The walls date back to the Roman era and are believed to have been built in the late 2nd century. They’re still fairly well preserved and provide a great opportunity to learn about the city’s past.
The walk takes approximately two hours and is suitable for all ages.
Along the way, you’ll get to experience picturesque views of the surrounding countryside and have the chance to explore some of the charming alleyways that weave their way around the walls.
Keep an eye out for some of the local wildlife too, as there’re often birds of prey soaring above the city.
Once you’ve completed the walk, you’ll be rewarded with a sense of accomplishment and a better understanding of the city’s history.
Westhampnett Woods Walk
Take a peaceful stroll through Westhampnett Woods and soak in the beauty of nature as you wander through the tranquil forest. Nestled in Chichester, Westhampnett Woods is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and take in some fresh air.
The walk offers a great view of the surrounding Chichester countryside, with rolling hills and lush greenery. You may even spot a few of the local wildlife, including deer, woodpeckers, and badgers.
The walk is also home to a variety of trees, including oak, beech, and ash. The woods offer great shade from the sun during summer months and provide a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The walk is well-marked and easy to follow, with pathways leading to various points of interest. There are plenty of benches along the way, so you can take a break from your walk and enjoy the scenery.
All in all, Westhampnett Woods is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of nature.
Stansted Park to East Ashling Walk
Experience the great outdoors with an enchanting walk through Stansted Park to East Ashling. This walk is a great way to explore the beautiful countryside of West Sussex, while taking in the picturesque views of rolling hills, woodlands, and the rolling South Downs.
This walk starts in Stansted Park, a vast country estate and the home of the Earl and Countess of Bessborough. Here, visitors can stroll through the grounds of the estate and take in its grandeur, before setting off on the trail through the countryside.
The path winds its way through woodlands and open fields, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the views. Along the way, be sure to look out for the local wildlife, including the wild deer that can often be spotted grazing in the fields.
The trail eventually leads to East Ashling, a charming village on the banks of the River Lavant. Here, visitors can explore the village and visit the local pubs and shops.
The walk finishes with a visit to the nearby church, before visitors make their way back to Stansted Park.
Conclusion
Wrapping up my list of the 15 best walks in Chichester, I’d say there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, the variety of stunning landscapes, wildlife, and historical sites make Chichester a great place to explore.
With so many scenic routes, I’m sure you’ll find something to suit.
So grab your walking shoes, pack a lunch, and get out there to discover Chichester’s hidden gems.