Chichester Marina
Children will enjoy waiting to cross the lock into the marina as well as the bird hide and shoreline on this walk.
The Basics
Time: 1 hour
Distance: 1.8 km
Terrain: Flat, paved paths
Pushchair: Yes
Dogs: Yes
Refreshments: The Boat House Café
Toilets: Just after the lock, on the return leg
Parking: Marina public car park just off the access road, free (Postcode: PO20 7EJ - W3W: shredding/trailing/truckload)
Ideally placed at the entrance to the marina, the Boat House Café has seating looking out across the harbour. You can make your way there, whilst admiring the boats, along flat, paved paths.
The Route
Exit the car park and follow the footpath signs with the buildings to your right and the canal to your left. There are some houseboats along this stretch. Stop at the swing bridge to spot ducks and other water birds.
Follow the footpath signs around to the right and at this point the marina opens up to views across Chichester Harbour. There are benches here to stop and admire the view, or order food from the excellent Boat House Café.
Immediately after the café, you may need to wait a few minutes for the lock to close so that you can cross to the other side of the marina.
On the other side is a stretch of shoreline where children can play. Follow the path back towards the car park on the opposite side of the marina. Look our for the bird hide just before the car park where you can stop and see what wildlife is lurking on the reed marsh.
Did you know?
Chichester Harbour is one of the south coast's most popular sailing waters with as many as 12,500 craft regularly using the harbour. If you have children who are interested in boats, you are sure to spot plenty at the marina.