Chidham Circular Walk
This short circular walk explores the area around the village of Chidham in West Sussex. The area has a number of footpaths taking you to the shore and intertidal mudflats of Chichester Harbour. It's an interesting and attractive place with fine coastal views, plenty of wildlife and some nice countryside too.
This walk runs for just over 2 miles, starting from the village and taking you to the eastern coast of the peninsula. Here there are nice views over to Bosham with its pretty quay.
The route then heads through the countryside to visit the picturesque Chidmere Pond, before passing Middleton Farm and returning to the start point.
On the way look out for the large number of wildfowl in Chichester harbour and pay a visit to the anicent St Mary's church which dates back to the 13th century.
Chidham Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Chidham Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Chidham OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Chidham Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Pubs/Cafes
In the village you can visit the splendid Old House at Home pub. The 18th century inn includes traditional wooden beams and open fireplaces. There's also a lovely garden area to relax in on warmer days. You can find the pub at postcode PO18 8SU for your sat navs.
Further Information and Other Local Ideas
For another nice circular walk around the harbour head east and visit the delightful Chichester Marina and Birdham. There's some lovely boats to see here with fine views over the harbour from a different perspective.
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
Chidham church. Facing the church is an early 19th century vicarage known as the 'Old Rectory', which is now a private house. Also nearby is the manor house, a large late 17th century building. The village's name, initially documented as Chedeham in 1193, originates from the Old English terms cēod(e), signifying "bay", and hām, representing "homestead", or hamm, denoting "peninsula". The current construction of St. Mary's Church, constructed from flint and rubble, traces back to the 13th century, although there might have been a wooden precursor. Notably, the peninsula isn't referenced in the Domesday Book since it was encompassed within the Manor or Chapelry of Bosham, renowned for its fertile farming land and formerly owned by the Bishop of Exeter.
Chidmere Pond
Squashed Plums. If you look closely you can still see one or two on the tree. The rest have fallen onto the footpath and squashed by passing walkers. The footpath is on the south eastern side of Chidmere Pond.
Salt-marsh Chidham. In 1812, an embankment wall stretching from Chidham to Bosham was constructed, utilizing an old quay. Reflecting on Bosham in the 1860s, Charles Longcroft recounted how the newly enclosed land was cultivated and sown with corn. However, in one fateful November, a fierce tide and gale wind swept in from the southwest, causing the embankment to collapse. By 1825, the sea had reclaimed the territory, submerging the farmland and engulfing recent constructions. Among these was reportedly a grand mansion situated at Cutmill, whose stones were subsequently repurposed in the construction of Cutmill Cottage.
Private beach on the east of Chidham Peninsula
Partially frozen inlet just north of Chidham Point
Embankment, Chidham Creek. Sea wall built to prevent floods. The creek heads under the road to the pond the other side.
Catchwater area, Chidham Creek. Pond formed by the waters of the Creek and stored here. Chidham Lane is to the right and the sea wall is visible beyond that.