West Wittering (one of England’s sunniest beaches)
West Sussex is England’s sunniest county, and West Wittering (a sandy beach near Chichester Harbour) is one of England’s sunniest beaches, with beautiful scenery and views across the Solent.
Note there are seasonal dog bans on some beaches (check before travel). If visiting the coast with your pooch, read our post on keeping dogs safe by the seaside.
The 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).
Often called ‘the poshest village in Sussex’, West Wittering is a short (bumpy) bus ride from Chichester. Nicholas Lyndhurst went to school here (he ‘learned’ the Peckham accent to play Rodney Trotter).
Nearby Selsey boasts the cleanest waters in England, with views over the English channel. It was home to TV astronomer Sir Patrick Moore.
More Natural West Sussex Gems
- Pagham Harbour Nature Reserve is a haven for migrating birds each spring and autumn. At low tide, mudflats stretch out to the sea, ideal for wading birds and geese.
- Pulborough Brooks is a nearby RSPB reserve, that sits in the floodplain of the River Arun, trails winding through wet meadows and ancient oaks. This is popular for nightingales and endangered lapwings, who arrive in spring. And in winter, you’ll see flocks of wild geese and ducks.
- Bognor Regis was the choice of royalty for seaside holidays, back in the day (today it’s known more for Butlins holiday camp). But with a makeover and litter clean-up, the potential is there for it to return to its heyday.
- Chichester is a harbour city, and one of England’s main leisure sailing spots. Ideal for sustainable sailors!
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 protect hunting innocent animals).
