Walking in Selsey
Coastal paths, nature reserves and peninsula routes
Selsey and the surrounding Manhood Peninsula offer some of the best flat walking on the Sussex coast. The combination of coastal paths, nature reserve trails, quiet lanes and open countryside provides a variety of routes for walkers of all abilities. The terrain is flat throughout, making the area particularly suitable for older walkers and families with young children or pushchairs.
The coast path around Selsey Bill is the most popular walk. Starting from the town centre, walkers can head south to the Bill, passing the lifeboat station at the end of its walkway, and then follow the coast eastwards along East Beach towards Pagham Harbour, or westwards along West Beach towards Medmerry. The views from the Bill are expansive, with the open Channel stretching to the horizon and, on clear days, the Isle of Wight visible to the west.
The Pagham Harbour nature reserve provides excellent walking on the eastern side of the parish. Paths run around the harbour from Church Norton, through the ancient churchyard and along the shingle spit, with views across the tidal mudflats and salt marsh. The birdlife is exceptional, particularly during the winter months when vast flocks of dark-bellied brent geese, wigeon, teal and wading birds feed on the harbour. The walk from Church Norton to Pagham village and back is a circular route of approximately four miles.
The Medmerry reserve, to the west of Selsey, has a circular walking and cycling path around its perimeter of approximately four miles. The flat, surfaced path is accessible and easy, and the new coastal habitat created by the managed realignment scheme provides constantly changing views of salt marsh, lagoons and birdlife. Hides along the route allow walkers to stop and observe the wildlife without disturbing it.
Beyond the coast, the quiet lanes of the Manhood Peninsula offer walking through flat agricultural countryside. Routes towards Sidlesham, Earnley, East Wittering and the surrounding villages pass through open fields with wide skies. The South Downs, visible on the northern horizon, provide a distant backdrop.
The Selsey area is well served by footpaths and public rights of way, maintained by West Sussex County Council. Maps and walking guides are available from the library and the RSPB visitor centre at Sidlesham. The flat terrain means that waterproof footwear is advisable in winter, as paths can become muddy after prolonged rain.
For walkers who value birdwatching, Selsey is exceptional. The combination of Pagham Harbour, Medmerry, the coastal foreshore and the agricultural fields of the peninsula creates a variety of habitats that support an outstanding diversity of bird species throughout the year.