A Guide to the County of West Sussex, Naturally
West Sussex is a large county in southeast England (the sunniest in the country) which has many contrasts. It has lots of seaside resorts (mostly pebble beaches) along with inland pretty villages. But it also is home to more urban areas like Gatwick Airport.
If out walking, always follow the Countryside Code to keep all creatures safe. If at the coast, read about how to keep dogs safe by the seaside.
An Animal Rescue In Need of a New Home
Holbrook Animal Rescue does wonderful work rescuing dogs for adoption. Founded nearly 30 years ago, the old property has been sold (and the council refused planning permission for a new site).
Set up the shelter as your cause at easyfundraising (anytime you spend with participating shops or services, the sanctuary receives a portion of the sale, at no cost to you). If everyone did this, they could buy a place outright.
The South Downs (England’s Newest National Park)
This stretches from Winchester (Hampshire) to Eastbourne (East Sussex) and is known for its chalk downs and beech woods that glow with copper hues in autumn. Many villages (like Amberley) lie nestled in the valleys, with old pubs and hidden churches giving a real example of old England.
This park is an International Dark Sky Reserve, which attracts butterflies, skylarks and shy deer. Barn owls can safely hunt at dusk, and local nature reserves protect rare bats, dormice and orchids.
The South Downs Way is a 100-mile national trail that runs across the heart of the park. It’s well-marked and open to walkers – taking you through open hills, secret valleys and quiet forests.
West Wittering (the ‘poshest village in Sussex’)
West Wittering is a short (bumpy) bus ride from the harbour city of Chichester, and nearby Selsey boasts the cleanest waters in England, with views over the English Channel.
It was home to TV astronomer Sir Patrick Moore. One boy who went to school here was actor Nicholas Lyndhurst (he’s quite posh, he ‘learned’ the Peckham accent to play Rodney Trotter).
These dunes and saltmarshes are home to rare wildlife, so never walk on sand dunes (keep to designated paths). Keep dogs away from nesting birds and seals (they often hide pups in dunes).
Bognor Regis (more regal than it sounds!)
Back in the day, Bognor Regis was the destination of choice for royal seaside visits. Even today, you can see the old grand hotels, although it could do with a bit of a makeover.
Arundel (a beautiful town on the River Arun)
Even if you’re not religious, you’ll be impressed by Arundel Cathedral. The Gothic architecture blends beautifully with the River Arun, where you can spot it ‘peeking from behind the trees’. Built in the 19th century, the cathedral is known for its choir performances.
The nearby castle is controversial, due to the owner breeding pheasants for shooting, and setting snares that have trapped other wildlife, and domestic dogs. Yet as a Roman Catholic, he is the ‘most senior representative’ for his faith at Vatican City. God knows what Saint Francis of Assisi would think?
The Guardian reports that in his time of sitting in the House of Lords (21 years), the Duke has made no speeches, asked no written questions, and voted just 12 times (7 to vote in favour of hunting).
